Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Mace

Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Construction & Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-03-18T06:02:42

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the multidisciplinary design of complex residential neighborhoods and community assets from concept through to delivery within a major mixed-use development program in Saudi Arabia.

• Coordinate architecture, structure, MEP, façades, landscape, and infrastructure packages, ensuring adherence to quality, buildability, and programme certainty.

• Implement robust design management processes and support long-term business strategy by developing, mentoring, and empowering design teams.

• Manage end-to-end design processes, establishing key documentation like the design management plan, responsibility matrix, and stage gates.

• Interface effectively with clients, delivery partner teams, design consultants, third-party authorities, and contractors to ensure seamless project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for a large-scale, high-profile program in Saudi Arabia, requiring a Senior Design Manager with experience in a Delivery Partner/PMC model. The focus is on leading and coordinating diverse design disciplines for residential and community assets, emphasizing process implementation, team leadership, and stakeholder management. This is not a purely technical design role but a leadership and coordination position within the broader construction delivery framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Champion safe, high-quality, and compliant design delivery, prioritizing well-being, inclusion, and adherence to local Saudi Arabian regulations and international standards.

• Oversee and mentor design management teams, driving strategic outcomes and fostering strong, collaborative client relationships.

• Implement and refine robust design management processes, ensuring alignment with the overall project delivery strategy and long-term business objectives.

• Develop, mentor, and empower design teams, promoting a culture of innovation, best practice, and continuous business growth.

• Manage the end-to-end design process across architectural, structural, MEP, landscape, infrastructure, and façade disciplines for residential assets and community amenities.

• Establish and manage essential design management documentation, including the design management plan, design responsibility matrix, deliverables schedule, and key stage gates (concept, schematic, detailed design, and IFC).

• Act as the primary interface between the client, Mace’s delivery partner teams, external design consultants, third-party authorities, and contractors.

• Translate design intent into clear, coordinated tender and Issued For Construction (IFC) packages, actively supporting RFI responses, addenda, and bidder clarifications.

• Support contractor pre-qualification processes, tender evaluations, technical submittals, shop drawings, and materials approvals to ensure design compliance and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on leadership, process ownership, and stakeholder engagement within a complex project environment. The role requires proactive management of the design lifecycle, from initial concept through to construction documentation, with a significant focus on coordination across multiple disciplines and external parties.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree in architecture, engineering, or a related discipline.

Experience:

• Proven experience within a delivery partner or Project Management Consultancy (PMC) model.

• Demonstrated success in the delivery phase of projects and programs, specifically within the residential sector.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Leading and coordinating multidisciplinary design teams and processes.

• Project Coordination: Ensuring seamless integration of architecture, structure, MEP, façades, landscape, and infrastructure.

• Quality Assurance & Buildability: Driving high standards in design output and practical construction implementation.

• Programme Certainty: Contributing to meeting project timelines and key stage gates.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively interfacing with clients, consultants, authorities, and contractors.

• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with international codes, standards, and Saudi Arabian authority processes.

• Contract & Health & Safety Knowledge: Understanding of construction contracts, professional appointments, and H&S legislation.

Preferred Skills:

• Chartership in a relevant professional body.

• Experience with large-scale mixed-use developments.

• German language proficiency (if applicable to specific project teams or client interactions, though not explicitly stated, often beneficial in international projects).

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical understanding from a relevant degree and practical, hands-on experience in managing complex design delivery within a PMC framework. The preference for chartership and specific experience in Saudi Arabia indicates a need for established professionals with a strong understanding of local project environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Delivery Case Studies: Showcase successful management of residential or community asset projects from concept to construction documentation, detailing your role in coordination and oversight.

• Design Management Plan Examples: Demonstrate your ability to create and implement comprehensive design management plans, including scope, objectives, stakeholders, and timelines.

• Responsibility Matrix Documentation: Provide examples of Design Responsibility Matrices (DRMs) you have developed and utilized to clarify roles and responsibilities across multidisciplinary teams.

• Stage Gate Review Documentation: Illustrate your experience in managing and documenting key design milestones (Concept, Schematic, Detailed Design, IFC), including review processes and approval mechanisms.

• Stakeholder Management Evidence: Include examples of how you have successfully managed and communicated with diverse stakeholders, showing problem-solving and negotiation skills.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase your ability to map, analyze, and optimize design workflows to improve efficiency, quality, and programme certainty.

• System Implementation & Automation: Provide examples of how you have implemented or improved design management systems and processes, potentially leveraging technology for better coordination or documentation.

• Performance Measurement & Analysis: Demonstrate experience in defining key performance indicators (KPIs) for design delivery and analyzing data to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio should clearly articulate the candidate's ability to structure, manage, and drive complex design processes. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating strategic thinking, process implementation, and successful outcomes through concrete project examples.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: SAR 450,000 - 700,000 per annum.

• Explanation: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Manager roles in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, for large-scale construction and infrastructure projects. Factors considered include the significant project scope, the requirement for extensive experience (5-10 years), leadership responsibilities, and the demand for specialized skills in a high-cost-of-living region. The estimate also accounts for the need for visa sponsorship and the typical compensation packages offered by major international consultancies like Mace operating in the GCC region. Data sources include industry salary surveys, recruitment agency reports for the Middle East construction sector, and general cost-of-living indices for Riyadh.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance for employee and dependents.

• Relocation assistance and accommodation support.

• Annual leave entitlement and return flights (if applicable).

• Professional development and training opportunities.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

• Flexibility may be required to meet project demands, including occasional extended hours or weekend work during critical phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation for a Senior Design Manager role in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, considering the project's scale and the candidate's experience level. Specific benefits will be detailed during the offer stage.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Consultancy, Project Management

Company Size: Mace is a global company with over 7,000 employees worldwide, indicating a large and established organization with significant project capabilities.

Founded: Mace was founded in 1990, signifying decades of experience and a strong track record in the construction and consultancy sectors.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within Mace's delivery partner team, suggesting a collaborative structure with other project management and construction professionals.

• The Senior Design Manager will lead a multidisciplinary design management team, likely comprising specialists from various design disciplines.

Methodology:

• Mace emphasizes a "Safety first - Going home safe and well" approach, integrating well-being into all operations.

• A "Client focus - Deliver on our promise" ethos drives accountability for quality and strategic outcomes, fostering long-term partnerships.

• "Integrity - Always do the right thing" guides ethical conduct and compliance.

• "Create opportunity - For our people to excel" promotes a continuous improvement culture, supporting professional development and innovation.

Company Website: https://careers.macegroup.com/gb/en

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's strong emphasis on its values (Safety, Client Focus, Integrity, Opportunity) provides insight into the expected work ethic and collaborative approach within the company. The company's global presence and long history suggest a stable, professional environment with a commitment to best practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level role within the Design Management function, positioned to lead significant aspects of a major project's design delivery. It requires a strategic mindset, strong leadership capabilities, and the ability to manage complex, multidisciplinary operations.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Program Director or Head of Design within the Mace delivery partner team. They will, in turn, manage a team of design managers and coordinate with various project leads.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager's impact is directly tied to ensuring the successful, efficient, and compliant design of residential neighborhoods and community assets. Their work directly influences project quality, buildability, program certainty, and ultimately, client satisfaction and Mace's reputation on this flagship program. Effective design management is crucial for mitigating risks, controlling costs, and achieving the project's strategic objectives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to Program Design Director or similar senior leadership roles overseeing larger design portfolios or multiple projects.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design disciplines or project types within large-scale developments.

• International Mobility: As part of a global firm, opportunities may arise to work on projects in other regions.

• Mentorship & Training: Continued development through Mace's internal training programs and mentorship opportunities, focusing on leadership, project management, and technical advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant career progression within large-scale project delivery, moving from managing specific design packages to overseeing entire project design portfolios and potentially broader leadership positions within Mace.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, within a project delivery office environment in Riyadh. This implies a dynamic, fast-paced setting focused on project execution.

Office Location(s): Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This is a major metropolitan hub with significant development activity.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a highly collaborative workspace with direct interaction with project teams, consultants, and client representatives. The emphasis will be on teamwork and cross-functional communication.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to project management software, design coordination platforms, and standard office technology will be provided. Proficiency in these tools will be essential.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular meetings, design reviews, and progress updates will be integral to the daily workflow, fostering strong team cohesion and problem-solving capabilities.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, but the demanding nature of large-scale construction projects may necessitate flexibility, including extended hours or weekend work during critical design phases or milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characteristic of major construction projects, emphasizing on-site presence, intense collaboration, and a dynamic pace. Candidates should be prepared for a high-energy, team-oriented setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will review applications and CVs against the core requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to assess technical expertise, leadership experience, and cultural fit. This may involve detailed questions about past projects and design management approaches.

• Technical/Panel Interview: A more in-depth interview, potentially with senior leadership or a panel, to evaluate your strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and understanding of complex design coordination.

• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to present on a past project or a hypothetical design challenge, demonstrating your approach to managing complex design processes, stakeholder engagement, and risk mitigation.

• Final Interview & Offer: Discussions with senior management, followed by an offer if successful.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate your role, responsibilities, and the quantifiable outcomes of your design management efforts (e.g., improved quality, reduced RFI's, on-time delivery).

• Structure by Project: Organize your portfolio by key projects, highlighting the scale, complexity, and specific challenges you addressed.

• Demonstrate Process: Showcase examples of your design management plans, responsibility matrices, and stage gate processes. Use visuals where appropriate.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Include examples of how you managed communication and resolved conflicts with diverse stakeholders.

• Tailor to Mace: Research Mace's values and recent projects, and subtly align your portfolio presentation with their organizational ethos.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate Design Coordination Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would resolve conflicts between architectural and structural requirements, or MEP integration challenges.

• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Practice articulating how you would manage a difficult client request or a dispute with a contractor.

• Regulatory Compliance: Be ready to discuss your understanding of international standards and Saudi Arabian regulations relevant to construction projects.

• Leadership & Team Management: Prepare examples of how you have mentored teams, driven performance, and fostered a collaborative environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess not only technical design management skills but also leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and the ability to operate effectively within a large, complex project environment and a specific cultural context. A well-curated portfolio is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Likely proficiency with platforms such as Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or similar for programme and schedule management.

• Design Coordination Platforms: Experience with BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools and platforms like Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or similar for clash detection and model coordination.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing project documentation, drawings, and specifications (e.g., Aconex, Procore).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to utilize Excel for data analysis and reporting, and potentially BI tools for dashboard creation (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) if reporting on design metrics.

• Reporting Software: Experience generating reports on design progress, risks, and quality assurance.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Client Relationship Management): While not a direct sales role, understanding client management principles is key.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with processes that can be streamlined through digital tools, though direct automation tool experience might be less critical than process understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM and project management software is essential for this role. The ability to leverage technology for design coordination, documentation, and progress tracking will be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value, requiring a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating safety risks within the design and coordination processes.

• Client Focus: Commitment to delivering on promises, ensuring design quality meets client expectations and contributes to long-term relationships.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards, ensuring compliance with all regulations and contractual obligations throughout the design lifecycle.

• Create Opportunity: Fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and professional development within the design team, empowering individuals to excel.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Emphasizes seamless integration of architectural, structural, MEP, façade, landscape, and infrastructure disciplines.

• Process Review & Feedback: Encourages open communication and feedback loops for design reviews, RFI responses, and continuous process improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promotes sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative solutions across the design team and with other project stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's core values are deeply embedded in their operational culture, guiding decision-making and team interactions. Candidates are expected to embody these principles in their daily work and leadership approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of clients, consultants, authorities, and contractors on a large-scale, complex program.

• Ensuring Quality & Compliance: Maintaining high standards of design quality and ensuring adherence to numerous international and local regulations in a demanding project environment.

• Programme Pressure: Meeting tight deadlines and key stage gates while coordinating multiple design disciplines and resolving complex technical issues.

• Cultural & Regulatory Nuances: Navigating the specific regulatory landscape and cultural considerations of working in Saudi Arabia.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Gaining experience on one of the largest programs in Saudi Arabia offers unparalleled learning in large-scale project delivery.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone leadership skills by managing diverse, high-performing teams on a challenging project.

• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to and implementation of Mace’s global best practices in design management and construction consultancy.

• Specialized Training: Potential for training in advanced BIM, contract management, or leadership development programs offered by Mace.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges but also offers substantial rewards in terms of professional growth, exposure to mega-projects, and the opportunity to shape critical infrastructure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict between two disciplines (e.g., structural vs. MEP). What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, communication, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure design quality and buildability are maintained throughout the design lifecycle on a large-scale project?" (Highlight quality assurance processes, reviews, and coordination strategies.)

• "Walk me through your process for establishing and managing a Design Responsibility Matrix on a complex project." (Demonstrate structured approach to defining roles and responsibilities.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on Mace's values, how would you lead your team to ensure a safe and high-quality design delivery?" (Connect Mace's values to practical leadership actions.)

• "What is your experience working within a delivery partner or PMC model, and what do you see as the key challenges and benefits?" (Show understanding of the project delivery framework.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Highlight Key Projects: Select 2-3 projects that best showcase your experience in residential/community asset design management on a large scale.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, explain the context, your specific role and responsibilities, the key design challenges, the processes you implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Emphasize Process & Tools: Clearly articulate your design management processes, documentation (DRM, DMP), and how you utilized tools like BIM for coordination.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics where possible (e.g., reduction in RFIs, on-time delivery of design packages, cost savings achieved through design optimization).

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical design management competence, strong leadership, strategic thinking, and an understanding of Mace's operational values and the specific context of working in Saudi Arabia.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Mace Careers portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in design management, project coordination across multiple disciplines (architecture, structure, MEP, façade, landscape, infrastructure), and your work within a delivery partner/PMC model. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 relevant projects. Focus on demonstrating your process for managing design delivery, stakeholder engagement, and achieving key project milestones. Include examples of Design Management Plans and Responsibility Matrices.

• Research Mace: Understand Mace's values, their approach to projects, and their work in the Middle East. Prepare to articulate how your experience and approach align with their culture.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to leadership, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and design process management. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail.

⚠️ 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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