Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager Company: AECOM Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates Job Type: Contract Category: Design Management / Project Management (Infrastructure & Construction) Date Posted: October 6, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the strategic development and execution of design solutions for complex infrastructure projects with a focus on institutional identity, cultural values, and operational requirements.
• Lead the integration and delivery of Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) packages, ensuring seamless transition from design conception through procurement and installation phases.
• Drive the alignment of design strategies with client briefs, rigorous technical standards, and evolving regulatory frameworks within the UAE.
• Provide critical support to the Design Manager, encompassing comprehensive reporting, meticulous design review processes, and proactive resolution of design challenges.
• Foster strong cross-functional collaboration and maintain clear, professional communication channels with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders, including consultants, contractors, and client representatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Design Manager, implying a significant level of autonomy and responsibility in guiding design outcomes. The focus on "institutional identity," "cultural values," and "operational requirements" suggests a need for a strategic thinker who can balance aesthetic, functional, and programmatic needs, particularly within government or defense sectors as indicated in the qualifications. The mention of FF&E integration points to a hands-on approach to the final stages of project delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the conceptualization and development of design briefs, meticulously translating institutional identity, cultural values, and specific operational requirements into actionable design parameters.
• Orchestrate the end-to-end management of Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) packages, encompassing detailed design coordination, strategic procurement planning, and precise installation oversight.
• Champion the overarching design strategy, ensuring all design deliverables are in strict adherence to client specifications, AECOM's technical excellence standards, and all pertinent UAE regulatory and statutory requirements.
• Act as a key deputy to the Design Manager, providing robust support in design documentation, conducting thorough reviews of consultant submissions, and preparing insightful progress reports for senior leadership.
• Exercise significant discretion and independent judgment in defining project workflows, establishing execution priorities, and proactively resolving complex design-related issues that may arise.
• Facilitate and manage effective communication and coordination across multidisciplinary design teams, construction teams, client representatives, and external regulatory bodies to ensure holistic project integration.
• Ensure all project deliverables consistently meet AECOM's stringent quality benchmarks, comply with all applicable codes and standards, and fully satisfy client expectations and project objectives.
• Proactively identify opportunities for process enhancement, contributing to the continuous improvement of design management methodologies, AECOM's internal design standards, and overall project delivery efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership and hands-on management. The emphasis on "institutional identity, cultural values, and operational requirements" suggests a need for a candidate who can interpret and translate abstract client needs into tangible design outcomes. The direct mention of FF&E integration and support to the Design Manager indicates a senior role with significant project oversight responsibilities, likely involving extensive coordination and review cycles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture is a mandatory requirement.
• A Master’s degree in Architecture or a related design discipline is strongly preferred, indicating a desire for advanced theoretical and practical knowledge.

Experience:

• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in design management or project management is required.
• This experience must include demonstrable leadership on complex institutional or defense-sector projects, underscoring the need for experience in high-stakes, regulated environments.
• Proven track record in the coordination and integration of FF&E packages is essential.
• Specific experience in integrating branding elements into defense projects is a key differentiator.
• In-depth knowledge of UAE regulatory frameworks and the specific requirements of local authorities is critical for project success.
• Prior experience in government, defense, or military projects, with a clear focus on user experience, functionality, and branding integration, is highly valued.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage the entire design process for complex projects.
• Project Management: Strong skills in planning, execution, and delivery of project objectives within scope, budget, and schedule.
• Stakeholder Management: Expertise in engaging, influencing, and managing diverse stakeholder groups, including clients, consultants, and government bodies.
• Communication Skills: Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities, with a talent for clear, concise, and professional reporting and presentation.
• FF&E Coordination: Detailed understanding of FF&E selection, specification, procurement, and installation processes.
• Branding Integration: Ability to strategically incorporate branding elements into design solutions, particularly for institutional and defense contexts.
• Regulatory Compliance: Thorough knowledge of UAE building codes, standards, and authority requirements.
• Leadership: Demonstrated capacity to lead multidisciplinary teams, inspire performance, and drive project success.
• Cultural Acumen: Sensitivity and understanding of cultural nuances relevant to design in the UAE and for institutional clients.
• Operational Requirements Analysis: Skill in interpreting and translating operational needs into functional design solutions.
• Technical Standards Application: Ability to ensure designs adhere to established technical specifications and industry best practices.
• Design Strategy Development: Capacity to contribute to and execute high-level design strategies aligned with client vision.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Degree: Master's degree in Architecture or a related field.
• Defense Sector Expertise: Deeper experience within military or defense project environments.
• User Experience Design: A strong understanding of UX principles as applied to built environments.
• Problem-Solving: Advanced analytical and critical thinking skills for resolving complex design challenges.
• Quality Assurance: Rigorous approach to ensuring design quality and adherence to standards.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Proactive approach to identifying and implementing process optimizations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a senior profile with extensive experience in specific project types (institutional, defense) and geographical contexts (UAE). The blend of architectural education, design management, and project management skills, coupled with a strong understanding of FF&E and branding, is crucial. The preference for a Master's degree and specific defense project experience suggests a highly specialized role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of Complex Projects: Showcase at least two significant projects (preferably institutional or defense-related) where you held a key design management role, detailing your specific contributions.
• FF&E Integration Examples: Provide concrete examples of FF&E packages you have managed, demonstrating your involvement from selection through to installation, highlighting challenges overcome and successful outcomes.
• Branding Integration Demonstrations: Include visual examples and descriptions of how branding elements were successfully integrated into project designs, emphasizing alignment with institutional identity.
• Process Workflow Diagrams: Present visual representations of design management workflows you have implemented or optimized, illustrating stages, key decision points, and stakeholder touchpoints.
• Quality Assurance & Compliance Documentation: Samples of quality checklists, review reports, or compliance documentation you have utilized or developed for design projects, particularly those adhering to UAE regulations.

Process Documentation:

• Design Development & Review Protocols: Documentation outlining your approach to managing the design development process, including methodologies for consultant selection, brief development, design review cycles, and approval processes.
• FF&E Procurement & Installation Frameworks: Detailed processes for managing FF&E procurement, including specification development, vendor management, contract administration, logistics, and on-site installation quality control.
• Stakeholder Communication & Reporting Standards: Examples of communication plans, meeting minutes, progress reports, and stakeholder engagement strategies you have employed to ensure effective project information flow and alignment.
• Risk Management & Issue Resolution Procedures: Documented procedures for identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks, as well as systematic approaches to resolving design challenges and conflicts.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio is critical. It should not just list projects but demonstrate a strategic approach to design management, FF&E integration, and stakeholder coordination. The emphasis should be on tangible results and the candidate's specific impact, particularly within the context of UAE regulations and institutional/defense project complexities.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on AECOM's global presence, the seniority of a Senior Design Manager role, and the complexity of projects in Dubai, the estimated annual salary range is AED 450,000 - 650,000 (approximately USD 122,500 - 177,000). This estimate accounts for the high cost of living in Dubai, the specialized nature of defense/institutional project experience, and the extensive experience required. This range is competitive for senior-level design and project management professionals in the UAE's infrastructure sector.

Benefits: AECOM is committed to supporting its employees with a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

• Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance, robust Well-Being Resources, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental and emotional support.
• Financial Security: Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, Disability Benefits, a Retirement Savings Plan, and an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
• Work-Life Balance: Paid Time Off (PTO), various Leaves of Absences, and Flexible Work Options to support a healthy balance.
• Additional Perks: Voluntary Benefits, exclusive Perks, and Service Recognition Awards to acknowledge dedication and contributions.
• Travel Support: Business Travel Insurance to ensure safety and security during work-related travel.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours for this role are presumed to be 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time contract position in Dubai. However, given the nature of senior project management roles, there may be an expectation for flexibility to meet project deadlines and critical milestones, especially during peak phases or when coordinating with international teams across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior design management roles in major international hubs like Dubai, considering the specific sector (infrastructure, defense). The benefits listed are comprehensive and aligned with what a large, multinational firm like AECOM typically offers. The mention of flexibility in working hours is standard for senior roles that require significant project commitment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Consulting Services sector, focusing on global infrastructure development. This includes transportation, buildings, water, energy, and environment. The company plays a vital role in shaping urban landscapes and essential services worldwide. Company Size: AECOM is a large, global enterprise, employing over 50,000 professionals worldwide. This scale offers extensive resources, diverse project opportunities, and a broad network of expertise. Founded: AECOM was officially formed in 1990, but its roots trace back much further through predecessor companies, signifying a long history and deep expertise in the infrastructure consulting field.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The candidate will join the Design Management team, likely a specialized unit within AECOM's broader project delivery or consultancy services division. The team size can vary depending on project scope but typically involves a mix of design managers, coordinators, and potentially specialists in areas like FF&E or branding.
• Reporting Structure: This Senior Design Manager role will report to a Design Manager or a Project Director, depending on the project's organizational hierarchy. They will, in turn, lead and guide junior design staff and coordinate with external design consultants.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: AECOM's culture emphasizes collaboration. The Senior Design Manager will work closely with project managers, engineers, architects, construction teams, procurement specialists, client representatives, and regulatory bodies to ensure integrated project delivery.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM emphasizes leveraging data and analytics for informed decision-making, from project feasibility through to construction execution.
• Integrated Project Delivery: The company promotes a holistic approach to project management, ensuring all disciplines and stakeholders are aligned from conception to completion.
• Innovation & Technology: AECOM actively invests in and adopts new technologies and innovative solutions to enhance design, engineering, and construction processes, promoting efficiency and sustainability.

Company Website: https://www.aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's description highlights a global leader in infrastructure with a strong emphasis on "delivering a better world." The scale of the company suggests a structured environment with established processes, but also opportunities for exposure to diverse and impactful projects. The "global team" aspect implies a need for strong cross-cultural communication skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a senior-level role within the design and project management discipline. It signifies a transition from individual contribution to leadership, strategic oversight, and team management. The scope involves complex, high-value projects, requiring advanced technical expertise, significant stakeholder engagement, and independent decision-making.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Design Manager or Project Director, functioning as a critical link between project leadership and the design execution teams (internal and external consultants). This position requires effective communication upwards, downwards, and across various project functions.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on project success by ensuring that design outcomes align with client vision, operational needs, and regulatory requirements. Effective design management by this role is crucial for controlling project scope, mitigating risks, ensuring quality, and ultimately contributing to AECOM's reputation and profitability. The successful integration of FF&E and branding elements directly influences the end-user experience and the project's overall success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance to Design Manager, Project Director, or leadership roles within specific AECOM business lines (e.g., Buildings + Places, Mobility).
• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific project typologies (e.g., defense, institutional) or functional areas (e.g., sustainable design, digital integration).
• Global Mobility: As a global firm, AECOM offers opportunities to work on international projects, broadening experience and exposure.
• Professional Development: Access to AECOM's extensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and support for professional certifications and further education.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Senior Design Manager at a firm like AECOM typically involves moving into broader project leadership or specialized design director roles. The emphasis on impact relates directly to project quality, client satisfaction, and financial performance, which are key metrics in operations and project delivery.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is based in Dubai, UAE, and is described as "On-site." It implies working within a professional AECOM office environment, likely a modern, collaborative workspace designed to support project teams. Office Location(s): The specific office location in Dubai would typically be provided during the interview process, but it would be a professional office setting equipped for design and project management activities. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: AECOM's culture promotes teamwork, so the workspace would likely facilitate interaction, brainstorming, and knowledge sharing among project team members.
• Tools & Technology: Access to AECOM's standard suite of design, project management, and communication software and hardware would be expected. This could include advanced CAD/BIM software, project management platforms, and robust IT infrastructure.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with project managers, engineers, architects, and other design professionals, fostering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment.

Work Schedule: The role is on-site with a standard 40-hour work week. However, as is common in senior project management roles, there may be an expectation for flexibility to accommodate project demands, client meetings, and potentially international team coordination across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" nature of this role is key. It suggests a preference for in-person collaboration, which is often beneficial for complex design coordination and stakeholder management in the construction and infrastructure sector. The Dubai location implies working within a cosmopolitan, business-focused environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications match, focusing on years of experience, specific project types (institutional, defense), and UAE context.
• Technical Interview: An in-depth discussion with hiring managers or senior design/project leads to evaluate your technical expertise in design management, FF&E, branding, regulatory compliance, and problem-solving skills. Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing design workflows and mitigating risks.
• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where candidates are expected to present a curated selection of their work, highlighting key projects, their specific contributions, and demonstrable outcomes. This is where you showcase your ability to translate requirements into successful design solutions.
• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of leadership style, stakeholder management capabilities, communication effectiveness, and alignment with AECOM’s values and team dynamics. Questions will probe how you handle challenges, collaborate, and lead teams.
• Final Interview/Offer: Potentially a final discussion with senior leadership before an offer is extended.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate your role, responsibilities, and the tangible outcomes of your projects. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., budget savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements).
• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio around compelling case studies. Explain the project context, the challenges faced, your strategic approach, and the successful resolution.
• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Use high-quality images and clear diagrams.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with AECOM's work in institutional and defense sectors, and highlight your experience with FF&E, branding, and UAE regulations.
• Process Walkthrough: Be ready to walk through your design management processes, demonstrating your understanding of best practices and your ability to implement them effectively.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Problem-Solving: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to design coordination, stakeholder conflicts, or regulatory hurdles. Practice outlining your problem-solving methodology.
• FF&E Scenario: You might be asked to outline your approach to procuring and installing an FF&E package for a specific type of facility.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Prepare to discuss how you would manage difficult stakeholders or ensure alignment across diverse project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role like this will be rigorous. A strong portfolio that demonstrates practical application of skills, problem-solving capabilities, and leadership is paramount. Emphasizing the "how" and "why" behind your actions will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard architectural and design software is expected. This includes:
  • Revit/BIM Software: For creating and managing Building Information Models, essential for integrated design and coordination.
  • AutoCAD: For 2D drafting and design documentation.
  • SketchUp/Rhino: Potentially for conceptual design and visualization.
• Project Management Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Primavera P6, or AECOM's internal project management systems for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
• Collaboration Tools: Proficiency in platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and virtual meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: Advanced proficiency for data analysis, financial tracking, and creating custom reports.
• Power BI/Tableau: Experience with business intelligence tools for creating dashboards and visualizations to report on design progress, risks, and key performance indicators.
• Reporting Dashboards: Familiarity with creating and interpreting project dashboards that track design milestones, budget adherence, and quality metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly a CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with broader project management and client relationship systems is beneficial.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems like SharePoint, Aconex, or other cloud-based platforms for organizing and controlling project documentation.
• Workflow Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can streamline design review processes, approvals, or reporting is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description doesn't list specific tools, AECOM, as a large infrastructure firm, will undoubtedly use industry-standard professional software. Proficiency in BIM/Revit and project management platforms is almost certainly a prerequisite. Familiarity with document control and reporting tools is also crucial for this senior role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, from client interactions to design decisions.
• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and sustainable solutions that meet or exceed client expectations and industry benchmarks.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective problem-solving is encouraged.
• Innovation: Embracing new technologies, methodologies, and creative approaches to tackle complex challenges and drive progress.
• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, delivering on commitments, and being accountable for project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: AECOM emphasizes breaking down silos. The Senior Design Manager will be expected to work seamlessly with engineers, construction managers, procurement, and other disciplines, ensuring a unified project approach.
• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and proactive communication channels, where feedback is welcomed, and challenges are addressed collaboratively and constructively.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and innovative ideas are shared across teams and projects to foster continuous improvement and professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values (Integrity, Excellence, Collaboration, Innovation, Accountability) are standard for reputable global firms. For a Senior Design Manager, demonstrating these values through actions—such as collaborative problem-solving, proactive communication with stakeholders, and a commitment to quality—will be key during the interview process.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the diverse and often competing needs of clients, regulatory bodies, internal teams, and end-users in a high-stakes environment.
• Navigating UAE Regulatory Landscape: Ensuring strict compliance with evolving local building codes, standards, and approval processes, which can be intricate and time-consuming.
• Integrating Diverse Design Disciplines: Overseeing and coordinating the work of multiple design consultants (architectural, structural, MEP, interior, etc.) to achieve a cohesive and functional final design.
• FF&E Procurement & Logistics: Managing the complexities of sourcing, procuring, and delivering FF&E on time and within budget, especially for large-scale or remote projects.
• Maintaining Design Quality under Pressure: Upholding AECOM's standards for quality and innovation while managing tight project schedules and budget constraints.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Management Techniques: Access to AECOM's internal training and development programs focused on cutting-edge design management strategies, BIM implementation, and sustainable design practices.
• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend relevant industry conferences (e.g., design, construction, infrastructure) and pursue professional certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED AP) to enhance expertise.
• Mentorship Programs: Participation in AECOM’s mentorship initiatives, connecting with experienced leaders to gain insights, guidance, and career advice.
• Leadership Development: Structured programs aimed at honing leadership skills, strategic thinking, and executive presence, preparing individuals for more senior roles within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Recognizing these challenges and framing them as opportunities for growth and skill development will be crucial for candidates. AECOM's commitment to learning and development suggests a supportive environment for professional advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a design strategy for a complex institutional project, considering institutional identity, cultural values, and operational efficiency." (Prepare to discuss your methodology for brief development, stakeholder alignment, and translating abstract requirements into design concepts.)
• Stakeholder Management: "How would you effectively manage conflicting design requirements from a client's operations team and their facilities management department?" (Focus on communication strategies, negotiation tactics, and finding mutually beneficial solutions.)
• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a critical FF&E delivery is delayed, impacting the project schedule. What steps would you take to mitigate this issue?" (Outline your process for identifying root causes, developing contingency plans, and communicating with affected parties.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• AECOM's Impact: "How do you see this Senior Design Manager role contributing to AECOM's mission of 'delivering a better world'?" (Connect your responsibilities to AECOM's broader goals and industry impact.)
• Team Dynamics: "Describe a challenging situation where you had to lead a multidisciplinary team to overcome a design obstacle. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight your leadership, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.)
• Quality & Compliance: "How do you ensure design deliverables consistently meet high-quality standards and comply with local regulations, especially in a market like the UAE?" (Discuss your quality assurance processes and understanding of regulatory frameworks.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Success: Organize your portfolio presentation logically, starting with an overview of your career and then diving into 2-3 key case studies. Dedicate specific slides to FF&E, branding, and UAE regulatory experience.
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. This could include budget adherence, schedule savings, improvements in user satisfaction, or successful regulatory approvals.
• Highlight Your Role: Be explicit about your specific contributions and responsibilities within each project. Use "I" statements to describe your actions and decisions.
• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images, renderings, and diagrams to illustrate your projects. Explain the design intent and how your management contributed to its successful realization.
• Interactive Q&A: Be prepared for detailed questions about your projects, your decision-making process, and your approach to common challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples that align with the job description's emphasis on institutional/defense projects, FF&E, branding, and UAE regulations will be crucial. Practicing your portfolio presentation and articulating your strategic thought process will significantly enhance your chances.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form through the AECOM careers portal on SmartRecruiters. Ensure all fields are accurately filled.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 15+ years of experience, specifically mentioning your leadership on complex institutional or defense projects, FF&E coordination, and UAE regulatory knowledge. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a strong portfolio showcasing relevant projects, focusing on your design management contributions, FF&E integration, branding elements, and adherence to UAE standards. Be ready to present this.
• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's projects, values, and recent news, particularly in the Middle East region. Understand their approach to infrastructure development and sustainability.
• Practice Your Responses: Prepare for interview questions by reviewing common behavioral, technical, and situational questions relevant to design management, project leadership, and stakeholder engagement in the construction sector.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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