Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager Company: JASARA PMC Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Design Management & Architecture Operations Date Posted: January 27, 2026 Experience Level: 15+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and integrate architectural design processes to align with the innovative vision of the Client for large-scale, multidisciplinary projects.
• Lead and mentor a creative team to achieve quality and design excellence, ensuring all design efforts adhere to project specifications and safety standards.
• Manage the end-to-end design scope, including scheduling, documentation, and the integration of various design packages.
• Foster strong collaboration with the Project Director, multidisciplinary teams, and stakeholders throughout all project phases, from concept to execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is framed as a Senior Design Manager, emphasizing leadership and oversight of design operations within a project management context. The focus on integrating architectural design with client vision, managing creative teams, and ensuring compliance with specifications suggests a strong operational component, bridging creative design with structured project execution. This aligns with a role that requires robust process management, stakeholder alignment, and quality assurance mechanisms, typical of senior operations leadership in design-intensive industries.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Scope & Schedule Oversight: Take ownership of the entire design scope, ensuring it aligns with project objectives and client expectations, and meticulously manage design schedules to meet critical milestones.
• Compliance & Standards Assurance: Guarantee that all architectural and design outputs strictly adhere to project specifications, relevant building codes, and established industry standards, with a particular emphasis on safety regulations.
• Design Integration & Package Management: Direct the seamless integration of various design packages (architectural, structural, MEP, etc.) to ensure a cohesive and functional final product, prioritizing constructability and maintainability.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: Act as a key liaison between design teams, project management, engineering departments, and external stakeholders, facilitating clear communication and effective problem-solving throughout the project lifecycle.
• Design Documentation & Quality Control: Lead the creation and review of comprehensive design documentation, including detailed architectural sets, technical reports, specifications, and presentations, ensuring accuracy and completeness for all project phases.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Supervise and guide a team of architects and designers, providing strategic direction, fostering a culture of design excellence, and supporting professional development to enhance team capabilities.
• Innovation & Vision Alignment: Ensure that design initiatives consistently reflect the innovative vision of the Client, translating high-level concepts into practical, executable design solutions that enhance the overall project value.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a blend of strategic design leadership and operational project management. Emphasis on "overseeing," "managing," "ensuring compliance," and "directing integration" highlights the operational rigor expected. The role requires not just creative direction but also the structured management of design processes, resources, and timelines, which is a core function of operations management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Architecture Engineering or a similar, closely related field. A Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Design, or Project Management would be a strong asset.

Experience:

• A minimum of 15 years of progressive professional experience in architectural design and project management, with a significant portion focused on large-scale, complex projects.
• Demonstrated experience in managing design teams and overseeing the full lifecycle of architectural projects from conceptualization through to final handover.

Required Skills:

• Architectural Design Expertise: Deep understanding of architectural typologies, design principles, and best practices, particularly for public spaces and large-scale developments.
• Integrated Project Management: Proven ability to manage design scope, schedules, budgets, and resources effectively for complex, multidisciplinary projects.
• Design Software Proficiency: Strong command of industry-standard design software, including advanced skills in Revit for BIM modeling, AutoCAD for drafting, and the Adobe Creative Suite for visual communication and presentations.
• Leadership & Team Management: Exceptional leadership capabilities to guide, motivate, and develop a team of design professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear articulation of design concepts, effective stakeholder engagement, and robust negotiation.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Ability to analyze complex design challenges, identify innovative solutions, and make sound, timely decisions under pressure.
• Safety & Compliance Focus: Thorough knowledge of building codes, safety regulations, and quality assurance protocols relevant to construction and architectural design.

Preferred Skills:

• Large-Scale Project Experience: Prior experience managing design for significant urban development, infrastructure, or landmark projects.
• Client & Stakeholder Engagement: Proven track record of successfully managing client expectations and building strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• BIM Management: Advanced understanding and practical application of Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows beyond basic usage, including coordination and clash detection.
• Contract Administration: Familiarity with contract administration processes related to design services and construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize extensive experience and technical proficiency in design software, alongside critical leadership and project management skills. The "public spaces knowledge" and "large-scale, multidisciplinary projects" preference point towards a need for operational excellence in managing complex, high-impact initiatives.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant projects that demonstrate your leadership in architectural design and project management. Each case study should detail the project's scope, your specific role, design challenges, solutions implemented, and the ultimate outcomes.
• Process Optimization Examples: Include evidence of how you have improved design workflows, implemented new technologies (e.g., BIM adoption), or streamlined processes to enhance efficiency, quality, or safety within design operations.
• Team Leadership & Collaboration Evidence: Provide examples of how you have managed and mentored design teams, fostered collaboration, and resolved interdisciplinary conflicts. This could include team structure diagrams or project team success metrics.
• Client & Stakeholder Engagement Documentation: Present examples of client presentations, stakeholder reports, or communication strategies that highlight your ability to manage expectations and ensure alignment on design vision and project goals.
• Demonstration of Software Proficiency: While not a direct portfolio piece, be prepared to discuss your experience and best practices with Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Suite, potentially through project examples where these tools were critical.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Be ready to discuss your methodologies for designing and optimizing architectural design workflows, including phases for concept development, schematic design, detailed design, and construction documentation.
• Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of how you have implemented new design processes, software, or automation tools to improve project delivery timelines, reduce errors, and enhance overall operational efficiency.
• Performance Measurement & Analysis: Demonstrate your approach to measuring the performance of design operations, including key performance indicators (KPIs) for design quality, schedule adherence, budget control, and team productivity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating not just design capability but also operational leadership. The emphasis on process optimization, team management, and stakeholder engagement indicates that the hiring team will look for evidence of structured approaches to design execution and problem-solving, not just creative output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: SAR 45,000 - 70,000 per month (approximately USD 12,000 - 18,700 per month).
• Methodology: This estimate is based on senior-level architectural and design management roles in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, considering the significant experience requirement (15+ years) and the project scale implied by JASARA PMC's involvement in large infrastructure. Salary benchmarks were derived from industry reports on construction and project management compensation in the GCC region, adjusted for the specific responsibilities and leadership scope of a Senior Design Manager.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Coverage for the employee and dependents, including medical, dental, and vision.
• Relocation Assistance: Support for international candidates, including visa processing, flights, and initial accommodation.
• Annual Leave: Generous paid annual leave entitlement, typically 30+ days, in line with Saudi labor law.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual performance-based bonuses tied to project success and individual contributions.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuing education, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.
• Accommodation Allowance: A housing stipend or company-provided housing.
• Transportation Allowance: A stipend for commuting or company-provided transport.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• Due to the nature of project management and design leadership, occasional overtime or weekend work may be required to meet project deadlines, especially during critical phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the location in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and the senior-level experience required (15+ years), a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package are expected. The estimated range reflects typical compensation for such roles in major Saudi cities, accounting for cost of living and market demand. Benefits are crucial for attracting and retaining senior talent in international roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Project Management (specifically within urban development and infrastructure). JASARA PMC is a joint venture focused on delivering major projects in Saudi Arabia, indicating a dynamic and fast-paced environment driven by large-scale national initiatives like Vision 2030. Company Size: While specific current numbers for JASARA PMC aren't readily available, as a joint venture of major entities (e.g., Al Futtaim, Arup, Red Sea Global), it operates with the scale and ambition of a large enterprise, likely employing hundreds or thousands of professionals across its projects. This suggests a structured, process-driven organization with a focus on professional project delivery. Founded: JASARA PMC was established to support Saudi Arabia's ambitious development plans, implying a relatively recent but rapidly growing presence, focused on innovation and execution.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The design team will likely be part of a larger project management office (PMO) or a dedicated design management division within JASARA PMC.
• Reporting: The Senior Design Manager will report to a Project Director or a Head of Design, working closely with various Project Managers, Lead Engineers, and other discipline-specific managers.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role demands constant interaction with procurement, construction, quality assurance, health & safety, and client representatives to ensure integrated project delivery.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using project data, performance metrics, and BIM models to inform design decisions and manage project progress.
• Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) Principles: While not explicitly stated, the nature of large-scale projects suggests an approach that encourages collaboration and shared risk/reward among project stakeholders.
• Lean Construction Principles: Potential adoption of lean methodologies to minimize waste and maximize value in design and construction processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding JASARA PMC's context as a major player in Saudi Arabia's infrastructure development is key. The company culture is likely to be professional, performance-oriented, and focused on delivering complex, high-profile projects efficiently. This requires operations professionals who can adapt to ambitious timelines and rigorous standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership position, signifying a critical role in the operational execution of design for major projects. It's a management-level role with significant responsibility for team performance, process integrity, and project outcomes.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will report to a senior project executive, likely a Project Director or Programme Director. They will directly manage a team of architects, designers, and potentially BIM specialists. This structure places them at a pivotal point, translating high-level project strategy into tangible design operations.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and profound impact on project success. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality and safety standards. It influences the overall feasibility, functionality, and aesthetic quality of major infrastructure and urban development projects, contributing to the client's vision and potentially Saudi Arabia's national development goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to Director Level: Potential to advance to roles such as Director of Design, Head of Architecture, or even a broader Project Director role for larger programs.
• Specialization in Urban Planning/Development: Opportunities to move into strategic roles focused on master planning and large-scale urban development initiatives.
• Technical Expertise Expansion: Deepening expertise in areas like sustainable design, smart city integration, or advanced BIM implementation.
• Leadership in New Ventures: Involvement in establishing and leading design operations for new, upcoming mega-projects in the region.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Senior Design Manager within a company like JASARA PMC is typically steep and rewarding, offering opportunities to shape significant developments. Growth is likely tied to successful project delivery and expanding operational responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and will involve working within a professional, corporate office environment. This office will likely serve as the headquarters or a major project hub for JASARA PMC, equipped with modern facilities to support large-scale project management.

Office Location(s): Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia. This location places the role within a major economic and development hub in Saudi Arabia, offering access to significant project opportunities and a vibrant professional community.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace is designed for collaboration, featuring meeting rooms, project war rooms, and open-plan areas to facilitate interaction between design teams, project managers, and other disciplines.
• Technology-Rich Environment: Expect access to high-performance workstations, advanced design software, BIM platforms, and robust IT infrastructure necessary for managing complex digital design processes.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, design reviews, cross-functional workshops, and direct engagement with senior leadership and clients.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, but the demands of major project delivery in a fast-paced environment often necessitate flexibility. Candidates should be prepared for periods requiring extended hours or weekend work to meet critical project deadlines and client expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by a focus on professional execution within a project-centric organization. While structured, it demands adaptability and a commitment to project timelines, common in large-scale construction and infrastructure management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess experience, qualifications, and alignment with the role's core requirements.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the direct hiring manager (likely a Project Director or Head of Design) focusing on your leadership style, project management approach, and technical expertise.
• Technical/Design Review: A session where you will present selected case studies from your portfolio, detailing your role, design strategies, problem-solving approach, and project outcomes. This may include specific questions about your experience with Revit, AutoCAD, and BIM.
• Panel Interview: An interview with a panel of key stakeholders, which may include senior project managers, technical leads, and potentially client representatives, to assess your fit within the broader project team and your ability to manage diverse stakeholder expectations.
• Final Interview: A concluding interview, potentially with very senior leadership, to confirm cultural fit and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your leadership in design management, your experience with large-scale, multidisciplinary projects, and your ability to integrate design with project objectives. Prioritize projects in similar typologies (public spaces, urban development) if possible.
• Focus on Operations & Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate your operational role, the design processes you managed, how you ensured quality and compliance, and the quantifiable impact of your leadership on project delivery (e.g., schedule adherence, cost savings, improved functionality).
• Highlight Software & BIM: Be prepared to discuss your specific contributions using Revit, AutoCAD, and BIM. Demonstrate how these tools were leveraged for efficiency, coordination, and communication.
• Showcase Leadership & Collaboration: Emphasize your experience in leading design teams, mentoring junior staff, and collaborating effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Prepare for Technical Questions: Anticipate questions about design challenges, conflict resolution, adherence to codes, and your approach to integrating different design disciplines.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario Analysis: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios where you might need to address design conflicts, client-driven scope changes, or schedule pressures. Your response should demonstrate strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of operational constraints.
• Process Improvement Discussion: Anticipate questions about how you would establish or improve design processes within a new project or organization, focusing on efficiency, quality control, and stakeholder alignment.
• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would manage challenging stakeholder relationships or communicate difficult design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role like this is rigorous. A strong, well-curated portfolio that highlights operational leadership, not just design creativity, is essential. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their management style, problem-solving methodologies, and their understanding of project execution in a complex environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Revit: Essential for Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling parametric design, collaboration, and comprehensive project documentation. Expect proficiency in creating complex models, managing design options, and coordinating with other disciplines.
• AutoCAD: Standard for 2D drafting, detailing, and documentation. Proficiency is required for creating precise construction drawings and site plans.
• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator): Critical for visual communication, creating high-quality design presentations, reports, and marketing materials.
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Project): Essential for documentation, data analysis, scheduling, and presentations. Advanced Excel skills for data tracking and reporting may be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud: Platforms for cloud-based collaboration, document management, and project coordination, enabling real-time access to models and drawings for all stakeholders.
• Project Management Software (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project): Tools for detailed project scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking, ensuring design milestones are met.
• Data Visualization Tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI - potentially): While perhaps not directly managed, familiarity with how design data can be visualized for reporting and decision-making is advantageous.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Project Management Systems: JASARA PMC likely utilizes sophisticated internal systems for managing project workflows, approvals, and communication.
• Document Management Systems (DMS): Robust systems for organizing, versioning, and distributing design documents and approvals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM software like Revit is paramount, reflecting the industry's shift towards integrated digital design and construction processes. The expectation is not just basic usage but the ability to leverage these tools for efficient project delivery and collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Innovation: A commitment to delivering the highest standards of design quality and embracing innovative solutions to meet client vision and project challenges.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse teams work together seamlessly, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to achieve common project goals.
• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, ensuring transparency, accountability, and respect among colleagues, clients, and partners.
• Efficiency & Accountability: A focus on optimizing processes, managing resources effectively, and taking ownership of responsibilities to ensure timely and successful project delivery.
• Safety & Compliance: Prioritizing health, safety, and adherence to all regulatory requirements in every aspect of design and project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Approach: Encouraging a collaborative approach where design is not a silo but an integrated part of the overall project delivery process, working hand-in-hand with engineering, construction, and client teams.
• Open Communication: Promoting an open-door policy and active listening to ensure all voices are heard and that feedback loops are effective for continuous improvement.
• Knowledge Sharing: Creating platforms and opportunities for team members to share best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at JASARA PMC, given its mandate and industry, is expected to be highly professional, results-oriented, and collaborative. Employees are likely expected to be proactive, adaptable, and committed to high-quality execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of multiple stakeholders, including the client, project directors, engineering teams, and regulatory bodies, while maintaining design integrity.
• Navigating Tight Project Timelines: Delivering high-quality design within demanding schedules, requiring efficient resource allocation, proactive problem-solving, and effective risk management.
• Integrating Diverse Design Disciplines: Ensuring seamless integration of architectural, structural, MEP, and other specialized design elements into a cohesive and functional whole, often involving complex coordination.
• Adopting and Implementing New Technologies: Staying abreast of and effectively implementing new design technologies and methodologies (e.g., advanced BIM, AI in design) to enhance efficiency and innovation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Mega-Projects: Gaining invaluable experience on transformative, large-scale infrastructure and urban development projects that are shaping the future of Saudi Arabia.
• Professional Certifications: Opportunities to pursue advanced certifications in project management (e.g., PMP), design leadership, or specialized technical areas.
• Cross-Disciplinary Skill Development: Learning from and collaborating with experts in various fields, broadening your understanding of the entire project delivery lifecycle.
• Leadership Advancement: Clear pathways for career progression into more senior management and executive roles within JASARA PMC or its parent organizations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges typical of large-scale project management, which are also the source of immense growth opportunities. The ability to navigate complexity and drive operational excellence is key to success and advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design scope and schedule for a large-scale, multidisciplinary project. What are the key operational checkpoints you implement?"
  • Preparation: Focus on structured processes, risk mitigation, and the use of project management tools for tracking progress and identifying potential delays. Highlight your experience with integrated scheduling and coordination.
• "How do you ensure design quality and compliance with project specifications and safety standards across a diverse team of architects and designers?"
  • Preparation: Detail your quality assurance and control (QA/QC) processes, review protocols, and methods for embedding safety considerations into the design from inception. Provide examples of how you've enforced standards.
• "Walk us through a complex design challenge you faced on a major project. How did you leverage your team, technology (Revit, AutoCAD, BIM), and problem-solving skills to overcome it? What was the operational outcome?"
  • Preparation: Choose a case study that clearly demonstrates your leadership, technical ability, and operational resilience. Quantify the impact of your solution. Be ready to discuss your specific role in utilizing software for problem-solving.
• "How do you foster collaboration and effective communication between design teams, engineering, construction, and client stakeholders on a project?"
  • Preparation: Discuss your strategies for stakeholder management, conflict resolution, and establishing clear communication channels. Provide examples of successful cross-functional collaboration you've led.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to JASARA PMC and this Senior Design Manager role, particularly within the context of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 development goals?"
  • Preparation: Research JASARA PMC's mission, current projects, and its role in Saudi Vision 2030. Align your career aspirations and values with the company's objectives and the region's development ambition.
• "How do you ensure your design team operates efficiently and aligns with the overall project management objectives and company values?"
  • Preparation: Connect your leadership style and operational management approach to the company's likely values (excellence, integrity, collaboration). Discuss how you drive performance and accountability.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Operations: For each selected project, structure your presentation to emphasize your operational role:
  • Problem/Objective: What was the core design challenge or project goal?
  • Your Operational Approach: How did you plan, organize, and manage the design process? (e.g., workflow, resource allocation, stakeholder engagement plan).
  • Tools & Technology: How did you leverage Revit, AutoCAD, BIM, and other tools for efficiency and coordination?
  • Challenges & Solutions: What specific operational or design hurdles did you encounter, and how did you resolve them?
  • Outcome & Impact: What were the measurable results in terms of quality, schedule, budget, safety, and client satisfaction?
• Quantify Everything: Use metrics whenever possible – percentage improvements in efficiency, adherence to schedule, reduction in RFI’s, etc.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation slides are clean, professional, and visually compelling, mirroring the quality of design you represent.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design acumen but also strong operational management capabilities. Candidates need to articulate how they lead teams, manage processes, utilize technology, and drive project success within a demanding environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight large-scale projects, your leadership in design management, and specific examples of process optimization and team leadership. Focus on demonstrating operational excellence in design execution.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 15+ years of experience, emphasizing project management, BIM proficiency (Revit, AutoCAD), and leadership roles. Use keywords from the job description such as "design scope," "scheduling," "compliance," "multidisciplinary collaboration," and "stakeholder management."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your responses to common operations and design management interview questions, focusing on structured problem-solving and quantifiable achievements. Prepare a concise presentation of your key portfolio projects.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research JASARA PMC, its current projects, and its role in Saudi Arabia's development plans. Understand their operational approach and how your skills align with their strategic objectives.

⚠️ 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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