Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Qiddiya Investment Company

Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management & Development Strategy

Date Posted: November 03, 2025

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead and manage all design initiatives for Qiddiya's groundbreaking development projects, ensuring alignment with the company's strategic vision and objectives.

• Oversee the end-to-end design lifecycle, from initial concept development and feasibility studies through to detailed design documentation and execution oversight, maintaining rigorous quality control.

• Foster a collaborative environment by engaging with diverse cross-functional teams, including architects, engineers, urban planners, and external consultants, to deliver cohesive and innovative design solutions.

• Champion the integration of sustainable design principles and cutting-edge technologies to create world-class, environmentally responsible, and future-proof developments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for translating Qiddiya's ambitious vision into tangible, high-quality built environments. The "Senior Design Manager" title implies significant autonomy and responsibility for strategic design direction and team leadership within the context of large-scale, complex development projects, often seen in mega-projects within the GCC region. This is not merely about managing aesthetics but about orchestrating the entire design process to achieve overarching business and experiential goals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the comprehensive design management process for Qiddiya's diverse portfolio of development projects, ensuring adherence to project timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

• Develop and implement design strategies that align with Qiddiya's master plan, brand identity, and sustainability mandates, driving innovation and excellence.

• Manage and mentor a team of design professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture, and providing clear direction and feedback.

• Coordinate with internal departments and external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, to secure necessary approvals and ensure compliance with all applicable building codes, standards, and local regulations.

• Oversee the selection, appointment, and performance management of external design consultants and architectural firms, ensuring their output meets Qiddiya's exacting standards.

• Conduct thorough design reviews at key project milestones, identifying potential risks, challenges, and opportunities for value engineering or design enhancement.

• Champion the adoption and effective utilization of advanced design software and technologies to enhance design efficiency, visualization, and collaboration.

• Ensure the integration of sustainable design practices and innovative solutions throughout the design development process, promoting environmental stewardship and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the scale and ambition of Qiddiya, the responsibilities extend beyond typical design management. It includes strategic input into the overall development strategy, ensuring design choices support long-term operational efficiency and user experience, and navigating complex stakeholder landscapes. The emphasis on sustainability and innovation suggests a forward-thinking approach required for a project of this magnitude.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Design Leadership: Proven ability to lead and inspire multidisciplinary design teams, set strategic design direction, and drive creative problem-solving.

• Project Management Acumen: Strong understanding of project lifecycle management, including planning, execution, monitoring, and control, with a focus on design phases.

• Technical Proficiency: Deep knowledge of architectural design principles, engineering disciplines, construction methodologies, and relevant building codes, standards, and regulatory frameworks (international and local).

• Software Proficiency: Expertise in industry-standard design and project management software, including but not limited to AutoCAD, Revit, BIM platforms, SketchUp, and the Adobe Creative Suite. Experience with project management software like MS Project or similar is also crucial.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior leadership, government officials, consultants, contractors, and community representatives.

• Contract Administration: Familiarity with contract types and administration, particularly concerning design consultant agreements.

• Financial Acumen: Understanding of design budgets, cost control, and value engineering principles.

Preferred Skills:

• Sustainability Expertise: Demonstrated knowledge and experience in implementing sustainable design strategies (e.g., LEED, Estidama, or similar certifications) and incorporating green building technologies.

• BIM Management: Advanced expertise in Building Information Modeling (BIM) implementation and management across complex projects.

• Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate design-related risks.

• Negotiation Skills: Strong negotiation capabilities for consultant contracts and design-related agreements.

• Arabic Language Proficiency: While not explicitly stated, proficiency in Arabic can be a significant asset for communication with local stakeholders and regulatory bodies in Saudi Arabia.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "8-10 years" requirement, coupled with the "Senior" title, strongly suggests this role is intended for a candidate with substantial experience in managing the design of major infrastructure or real estate developments. The emphasis on "large-scale development projects" and specific software implies a need for hands-on technical understanding alongside strategic leadership. The inclusion of "Building Codes and Regulatory Requirements" points to the necessity of navigating complex compliance landscapes common in ambitious mega-projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Diversity & Scale: A portfolio that clearly demonstrates successful management of multiple large-scale, complex development projects from inception to completion, showcasing a range of project types if possible (e.g., mixed-use, entertainment, hospitality, infrastructure).

• Design Strategy & Innovation: Evidence of strategic design thinking, innovative problem-solving, and the ability to translate conceptual ideas into executable design solutions.

• Process Documentation: Examples of documented design processes, workflow optimization strategies, and quality assurance frameworks implemented across projects.

• Team Leadership: Visual or descriptive evidence of leadership in managing design teams, fostering collaboration, and guiding consultants.

• Impact & Outcomes: Quantifiable results and demonstrable impact of design decisions on project success, including adherence to budget, schedule, sustainability goals, and overall vision realization.

Process Documentation:

• Design Management Frameworks: Candidates may be asked to present or discuss established frameworks for managing the design process, including methodology for design reviews, value engineering, and risk mitigation.

• Workflow Optimization: Examples of how you have streamlined design workflows, improved interdisciplinary coordination, or implemented new technologies to enhance efficiency and collaboration.

• Quality Control & Assurance: Documentation or case studies illustrating robust quality control measures implemented throughout the design phases to ensure compliance and excellence.

• Stakeholder Engagement Protocols: Examples of processes used to effectively engage and manage expectations of diverse stakeholders throughout the design journey.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio is not just a collection of images; it's a testament to process, strategy, and impact. Candidates should be prepared to articulate the methodologies, decision-making processes, and challenges overcome for each project presented. The focus on "large-scale" and "innovative" projects means showcasing the ability to handle complexity and push creative boundaries within practical constraints.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the location (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), the seniority of the role (Senior Design Manager, 10+ years experience), and the employer (Qiddiya Investment Company – a major mega-project developer), the estimated annual base salary range is likely between SAR 450,000 to SAR 750,000 (approximately USD 120,000 to USD 200,000). This range is highly dependent on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on research of senior management roles in the construction, real estate development, and project management sectors within the GCC, specifically Saudi Arabia. Mega-project developers like Qiddiya typically offer competitive compensation packages to attract top international talent, often including significant allowances and benefits beyond base salary. Regional cost of living and demand for specialized skills in large-scale development were also considered.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Full medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee and potentially dependents.

• Housing Allowance: A substantial allowance to cover accommodation costs in Riyadh, reflecting the expatriate nature of many senior roles in mega-projects.

• Transportation Allowance: Provision for transportation costs or company-provided transport.

• Annual Flight Tickets: For expatriate employees, an annual allowance for flights back to their home country.

• Relocation Assistance: Support for moving expenses, including shipping of household goods and initial temporary accommodation.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual performance-based bonuses tied to project and company success.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, training, and professional certifications relevant to design management and mega-project execution.

• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave entitlement, in line with Saudi labor laws and company policy.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, given the demanding nature of mega-project development, occasional overtime, weekend work, and extended hours may be required to meet critical project deadlines. Flexibility and a commitment to project success are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: Compensation for senior roles in Saudi mega-projects is generally very competitive, often designed to attract international expertise. The benefits package is usually extensive, designed to support expatriate employees and motivate them to deliver on ambitious, long-term projects. The specific value of allowances like housing and transportation can be significant.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development, Entertainment, Tourism, Sports, and Infrastructure. Qiddiya Investment Company is developing one of the world's largest and most ambitious entertainment, sports, and arts destinations.

Company Size: Large Enterprise. Qiddiya is a massive undertaking, implying a large organizational structure with numerous departments and a significant workforce, likely numbering in the thousands as the project progresses.

Founded: 2017. Qiddiya is a relatively young company, established as part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to diversify its economy and develop new tourism and entertainment sectors.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: Likely structured with specialized teams focusing on different aspects of design, such as architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, urban planning, and potentially specialized areas like theme park design or sports facility design.

• Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President of Design, Engineering, or Project Delivery. They will manage a team of Design Managers, Architects, and potentially design coordinators.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role demands extensive collaboration with Project Management, Engineering, Procurement, Legal, Finance, Operations, and Marketing departments, as well as numerous external consultants, contractors, and government entities.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data, feasibility studies, and performance metrics to inform design choices and project strategies.

• Integrated Project Delivery: A focus on collaborative approaches that break down silos between design, construction, and operations teams from the outset.

• Global Best Practices: Adoption of international standards and methodologies in project management, design, construction, and sustainability to ensure world-class outcomes.

• Agile Adaptation: While large projects have detailed plans, the ability to adapt to evolving requirements and challenges is crucial.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Qiddiya is a flagship project for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, aiming to be a global leader in entertainment and leisure. The company culture is likely to be fast-paced, ambitious, and focused on innovation and execution. Working at Qiddiya offers the opportunity to be part of a transformative national project with significant international visibility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the design and development vertical. It is a strategic role that requires not only technical expertise but also strong management and leadership capabilities. It sits at the intersection of creative vision and practical execution, influencing the physical manifestation of Qiddiya's strategic goals.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will report to a higher-level executive within the project delivery or development arm of Qiddiya Investment Company, likely a VP or Director of Design, Engineering, or overall Project Management. They will have direct reports, including junior design managers, architects, and potentially coordinators.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role on overall operations is profound. The Senior Design Manager's decisions directly influence:

• Guest Experience: The design dictates the flow, accessibility, aesthetics, and overall enjoyment for visitors.

• Operational Efficiency: Layouts, material choices, and system integrations impact long-term maintenance, energy consumption, and operational costs.

• Brand Perception: The architectural and design quality directly shapes Qiddiya's image as a world-class destination.

• Project Viability: Design choices impact construction costs, timelines, and the ultimate marketability and financial success of the development.

Growth Opportunities:

• Director/VP Level Roles: Progression to Director or VP of Design, Head of Design, or a broader role like Head of Project Delivery or Chief Development Officer within Qiddiya or affiliated entities.

• Specialization & Leadership: Opportunity to lead specialized design areas (e.g., master planning, entertainment design) or take on more complex, phased projects within Qiddiya.

• Industry Recognition: Contributing to a globally recognized mega-project can significantly enhance professional reputation and open doors to international senior leadership opportunities.

• Mentorship & Training: Developing leadership skills through managing teams and potentially contributing to the development of junior talent within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is a career-defining role for professionals in the design and development space. Success here on a project of Qiddiya’s scale can propel individuals into the highest echelons of the industry, offering significant opportunities for both professional advancement and personal impact on a globally significant development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, professional office environment located within the Qiddiya development area or a dedicated corporate office in Riyadh. Expect a dynamic, collaborative, and potentially high-pressure setting typical of major construction and development projects.

Office Location(s): Primarily Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The role is based on-site to allow for direct engagement with the development and project teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices will likely feature ample meeting rooms, collaboration zones, and potentially dedicated project war rooms for intensive coordination sessions.

• Technology & Tools: Access to high-performance workstations, advanced design software, BIM platforms, large-format displays, and robust network infrastructure will be standard.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for in-person interaction with design teams, project managers, engineers, and other stakeholders, fostering a strong sense of teamwork and shared purpose. The environment will be geared towards efficient communication and rapid decision-making.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work week is typically Monday to Friday. However, due to the nature of mega-projects with demanding timelines, candidates should anticipate the need for flexibility, potentially including occasional evening or weekend work to meet critical milestones or address urgent project issues. This is common in the development sector, especially in the GCC region.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is crucial for effective management of a mega-project’s design. It necessitates being physically present to oversee progress, resolve issues in real-time, and maintain strong relationships with the site teams and stakeholders. This environment demands resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to project delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will review applications and resumes for basic qualifications, experience, and alignment with role requirements.

• Technical Interview(s): Series of interviews with hiring managers, design leads, and potentially senior project directors. These will focus on technical expertise, design philosophy, problem-solving skills, and project management capabilities. Expect in-depth discussions about past projects and design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will be required to present their portfolio, detailing their role, contributions, design process, and outcomes for key projects. This is a critical stage to assess practical experience and communication skills.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team collaboration, communication effectiveness, and alignment with Qiddiya's values and work culture.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a C-level executive or SVP of Development/Design for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in large-scale development and design management.

• Showcase Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, contributions, and leadership within each project. Use "I" statements for your direct actions and "We" for team efforts.

• Detail the Process: Explain your design methodology, decision-making rationale, how you managed challenges, and how you collaborated with teams and stakeholders.

• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics whenever possible to illustrate the success of your designs – e.g., budget adherence, schedule savings, sustainability achievements, positive user feedback.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality renderings, plans, and site photos, but ensure they support your narrative rather than replacing it.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate detailed inquiries about your design choices, problem-solving approaches, and leadership decisions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study: You may be presented with a hypothetical design challenge or a specific problem related to the Qiddiya project. Be prepared to outline your approach to analyzing the situation, developing potential solutions, and presenting recommendations.

• Design Review Simulation: You might be asked to critique a design concept or identify potential issues in a given scenario, demonstrating your critical thinking and technical eye.

• Stakeholder Management Scenario: Prepare to discuss how you would handle conflicting stakeholder requirements or manage difficult conversations related to design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is paramount for this role. Candidates should treat it as a strategic presentation, not just a slideshow. The ability to articulate the "why" behind design decisions and demonstrate a structured, results-oriented approach is key to impressing the Qiddiya hiring team.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (essential for 2D drafting and general CAD operations).

• BIM Software: Revit (critical for Building Information Modeling, parametric design, and interdisciplinary coordination).

• 3D Modeling & Visualization: SketchUp, Rhino, or similar for conceptual modeling and design exploration.

• Rendering Software: V-Ray, Lumion, Enscape, or similar for creating realistic visualizations.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign for graphic design, presentation materials, and image editing.

• Project Management Software: Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not typically directly used by Design Managers, but understanding how design data integrates with broader CRM or ERP systems for project tracking and financial management is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in BIM (Revit) and strong CAD skills are non-negotiable. The ability to manage complex files and coordinate across disciplines using these platforms is fundamental. Familiarity with project management software is also crucial for managing the design process effectively within the broader project timeline and budget.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Visionary & Ambitious: A drive to create something unprecedented and world-class, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to the highest standards in design, construction, and user experience.

• Innovation & Creativity: Encouraging new ideas and pushing boundaries in entertainment, design, and technology.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative spirit across diverse teams and disciplines to achieve common goals.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding ethical standards and maintaining a high level of professional conduct.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: Commitment to environmentally conscious design and development practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated & Cross-Functional: Expect a highly collaborative environment where designers work closely with project managers, engineers, procurement, and operational teams from early stages.

• Direct Communication: Open and direct communication channels are encouraged to resolve issues quickly and efficiently.

• Feedback-Oriented: A culture that values constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in design and project execution.

• Results-Driven: A strong focus on achieving project milestones and delivering tangible outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working at Qiddiya means being part of a project that aims to redefine entertainment and tourism. The culture is likely to be dynamic, demanding, and rewarding, with a strong emphasis on achieving ambitious goals through collaboration and innovation. Candidates should demonstrate adaptability and a proactive, team-oriented approach.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scale & Complexity: Managing the design of a mega-project with numerous interconnected elements presents immense logistical and coordination challenges.

• Pace of Execution: The aggressive timelines required for such a large-scale development can create significant pressure.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the diverse expectations and requirements of numerous internal and external stakeholders can be demanding.

• Innovation Integration: Successfully integrating novel technologies and sustainable solutions while adhering to budget and schedule constraints.

• Regulatory Navigation: Navigating complex local regulations and obtaining necessary approvals efficiently.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mega-Project Experience: Invaluable experience managing the design of one of the world's largest entertainment destinations, a significant career differentiator.

• Exposure to Global Best Practices: Opportunity to work with international consultants and learn cutting-edge design and project management techniques.

• Leadership Development: Significant opportunities to hone leadership, team management, and strategic decision-making skills.

• Industry Conferences & Training: Potential for participation in leading industry events and specialized training programs focused on mega-project development, sustainable design, or advanced technologies.

• Networking: Building a strong professional network within the GCC region and the global development and entertainment industries.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented by a project like Qiddiya are significant, but they are also the source of immense growth opportunities. Candidates who thrive in complex, fast-paced environments and are eager to contribute to a landmark project will find this role incredibly rewarding.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design of a large-scale, multi-phase development project. What are the key stages and critical success factors?" (Focus on structured process, risk management, stakeholder engagement).

• "How do you ensure design innovation is balanced with practical considerations like budget, schedule, and constructability?" (Highlight value engineering, feasibility studies, iterative design).

• "Walk me through a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict between different disciplines or stakeholders. What was your strategy and the outcome?" (Emphasize mediation, data-driven arguments, compromise).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Qiddiya and its vision? How does your experience align with our goals?" (Research Qiddiya's master plan, Vision 2030, target markets).

• "Describe your leadership style and how you motivate a design team and external consultants." (Focus on empowerment, clear direction, collaborative problem-solving).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project: Project overview, Your role & responsibilities, Key challenges & solutions, Design process & methodology, Outcomes & impact (quantified where possible), Lessons learned.

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your strategic input and management of teams/consultants, not just individual design contributions.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss specific technical, logistical, or stakeholder challenges and how you overcame them.

• Connect to Qiddiya: Where possible, draw parallels between your past experiences and the goals or potential challenges of the Qiddiya project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who possesses both deep technical expertise and strong strategic leadership. Be prepared to discuss complex projects in detail, articulate your decision-making process, and demonstrate how you can contribute to Qiddiya's ambitious vision.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application via the provided link on Workable.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your most relevant experience in large-scale development, design management, and leadership. Ensure your portfolio is well-organized and directly addresses the requirements of this role.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly list your proficiency in key design and project management software. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., managed budgets of X amount, led teams of Y size, delivered projects Z% ahead of schedule).

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Qiddiya Investment Company, its mission, its master plan, and its role within Saudi Vision 2030. Understand the scale and ambition of the project.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and prepare to present your portfolio effectively, focusing on strategy, process, and impact.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. Salary ranges are estimates based on market research and role seniority. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization during the application and interview process.