Senior Design Manager - Planning and Design - MAS 4008

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager - Planning and Design

Company: Qiddiya Investment Company

Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Project Planning

Date Posted: 2026-09-10

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive design guidelines across all Qiddiya development projects, ensuring adherence to the company's vision and quality standards.

• Oversee the creation and execution of design plans, driving the successful achievement of strategic design goals for assigned projects within the Qiddiya master plan.

• Manage the selection process for design consultants, from initial outreach and RFP development through contract execution and administration, in collaboration with the Design Director.

• Provide critical support and strategic guidance to development project teams regarding design strategies, project schedules, and budget management to ensure efficient project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Design Manager, implying a significant level of responsibility in strategic planning, consultant management, and oversight of design execution. The focus on "Planning and Design" within a large-scale investment company suggests a need for strong strategic vision, robust project management capabilities, and extensive experience in coordinating complex multi-disciplinary design efforts, particularly within the context of large-scale development projects. The MAS 4008 designation likely refers to an internal project or portfolio code.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and ensure the consistent implementation of design guidelines across all Qiddiya development projects in close coordination with the Design Director.

• Drive the creation and successful execution of design plans to ensure the achievement of design goals for all assigned projects.

• Advise the leadership team on the selection of suitable design consultant candidates, managing the entire process from initial outreach, RFP development, contract execution, and contract administration in coordination with the Design Director.

• Provide essential support to development project teams in formulating robust design strategies to ensure efficient and timely project completion.

• Offer support to the design, development, and construction teams regarding the development of project schedules, budgets, and overall plans.

• Conduct periodic internal design reviews to ensure alignment with the overall Qiddiya master plan and implement corrective actions as necessary.

• Review design-related deliverables, providing recommendations to ensure compliance with quality standards and the achievement of strategic objectives.

• Ensure seamless coordination between multiple consultants from the pre-concept phase through execution, ensuring alignment with Qiddiya’s overarching master plan.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic oversight and hands-on management. The emphasis on "coordination between multiple consultants" and "alignment to Qiddiya’s master plan" underscores the need for strong stakeholder management and an understanding of large-scale urban or development planning principles. The requirement for "periodic internal design reviews" points to a proactive approach to quality control and risk mitigation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.

• Master’s Degree in Engineering, Architecture, or a related field is preferred. Experience:

• Minimum of 9-12 years of total relevant professional experience in design management, planning, and project execution. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to manage design processes, timelines, and deliverables for complex projects.

• Project Planning & Strategy: Expertise in developing and executing comprehensive project plans and design strategies aligned with business objectives.

• RFP Development & Consultant Management: Experience in creating RFPs, evaluating consultant proposals, and managing consultant relationships and contracts effectively.

• Budget & Schedule Management: Proficiency in managing project budgets and schedules, ensuring cost-effectiveness and timely delivery.

• Design Review & Quality Assurance: Strong capability in reviewing design documents and ensuring adherence to quality standards and strategic goals.

• Stakeholder Coordination: Excellent ability to coordinate with internal teams, external consultants, and leadership.

• Master Planning Principles: Understanding of master planning concepts and their application in large-scale development projects.

• Contract Administration: Familiarity with contract negotiation, execution, and administration processes.

Preferred Skills:

• Architecture/Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of architectural principles and engineering disciplines relevant to large-scale developments.

• Construction Lifecycle Knowledge: Familiarity with the full construction lifecycle, from concept to execution.

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

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Proficiency in analyzing design-related data and preparing comprehensive reports.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 9-12 years, coupled with the "Senior" title, indicates that candidates are expected to have a substantial track record of managing significant design initiatives. The preference for a Master's degree suggests a strong emphasis on advanced theoretical knowledge and strategic thinking in addition to practical experience. The required skills are heavily weighted towards the management and strategic aspects of design, rather than purely technical execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant large-scale development or master planning projects where you held a lead design management role.

• For each project, provide a concise overview detailing the project's scope, your specific responsibilities, key challenges, and the design solutions implemented.

• Demonstrate your ability to develop and implement design guidelines, with examples of how these improved project outcomes or ensured consistency.

• Include case studies that highlight your experience in consultant selection, RFP development, and contract negotiation.

• Present evidence of your budget and schedule management skills, ideally with examples of how you controlled costs or accelerated timelines. Process Documentation:

• Document a typical process you follow for conducting internal design reviews, including key checkpoints and stakeholders involved.

• Outline your methodology for supporting project teams in developing design strategies and ensuring alignment with master plans.

• Provide examples of how you have managed coordination between multiple consultants on complex projects, detailing communication protocols and conflict resolution strategies.

• Showcase your approach to ensuring compliance with quality standards and strategic objectives through design deliverables review.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the strategic nature of this role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but tell a story about the candidate's strategic thinking, process management, and ability to deliver complex design initiatives effectively. The emphasis on "process documentation" implies a need for candidates who can articulate and standardize operational workflows within the design and planning function.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for this Senior Design Manager position in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with 9-12 years of experience, is between SAR 450,000 and SAR 700,000 annually. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior management roles in large-scale development and construction projects within the GCC region, considering the cost of living and typical compensation structures in Riyadh. Factors such as specific skills, qualifications, and the candidate's negotiation will influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance for employee and dependents.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) including annual leave and public holidays.

• Relocation assistance and housing allowance may be provided for expatriate hires.

• Professional Development opportunities, including training, certifications, and conference attendance.

• Access to Qiddiya's world-class facilities and entertainment venues.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and long-term incentive plans.

• End-of-service benefits as per Saudi Labor Law. Working Hours:

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

• Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend critical meetings, including occasional evening or weekend work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary figures are estimates based on market research for similar roles in Riyadh and the specified experience level. The benefits listed are standard for senior positions in large organizations in the region and are tailored to attract experienced professionals for a large-scale development project.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Entertainment, Hospitality, Sports, Arts, and Culture Development. Qiddiya Investment Company is developing one of the world's most ambitious entertainment, sports, and arts destinations. This unique industry context means operations and design must be innovative, customer-centric, and able to support a wide range of experiences.

Company Size: Large Enterprise. Qiddiya is a major investment project with a significant workforce, indicating a structured corporate environment with established processes and ample resources, but also potential for bureaucracy.

Founded: 2017. As a relatively new company, Qiddiya is building its operational frameworks and culture from the ground up, offering opportunities for individuals to shape processes and contribute to foundational elements.

Team Structure:

• The Design and Planning team is likely structured under a broader Development or Project Management division, reporting to a Design Director or VP of Development.

• This role will interact extensively with project managers, architects, engineers, urban planners, and external consultants.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving teams from legal, procurement, finance, and operations to ensure design integration with business and operational requirements. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Decisions regarding design and planning will be informed by market research, feasibility studies, and performance metrics from similar global projects.

• Integrated Design Process: Emphasis on collaborative workflows where design, engineering, and operational requirements are considered concurrently.

• Agile Implementation: While master planning is long-term, individual project execution may adopt agile principles for iterative development and rapid deployment of key features.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Qiddiya's focus on creating a massive, multi-faceted entertainment destination implies a dynamic and forward-thinking culture. The Senior Design Manager will be instrumental in translating ambitious visions into tangible, functional, and aesthetically compelling designs that meet diverse stakeholder needs. The nascent stage of the company's development suggests a high degree of influence for senior hires.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management. This role sits at a senior level within the Design and Planning function, responsible for strategic direction, team leadership (indirectly through consultant management), and significant decision-making authority on design matters. It's a key contributor to the overall success of Qiddiya's development.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will report to the Design Director and will be responsible for managing external design consultants rather than a direct internal team. This structure emphasizes leadership through influence and expert guidance.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is profound, directly shaping the physical environment and user experience of Qiddiya. Successful design management ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet the highest standards of quality and innovation, thereby contributing significantly to Qiddiya's commercial success and brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to Design Director or VP of Development roles, overseeing larger portfolios and strategic initiatives.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of entertainment, sports, or cultural design through exposure to diverse project types.

• Global Exposure: Involvement in a landmark project of international significance, offering unparalleled career visibility and experience.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior designers and project managers, developing leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step for a design professional looking to make a mark on a globally recognized project. The growth trajectory emphasizes strategic leadership and broader project oversight, aligning with the ambitious nature of Qiddiya.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, corporate office environment located within the Qiddiya development area or a central Riyadh business district. Expect a professional setting designed to foster collaboration and productivity.

Office Location(s): Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The specific office location will be within the Riyadh region, likely offering good access to transportation and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The workspace will likely feature open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated project zones to facilitate interaction and brainstorming among design and planning teams.

• Technology & Tools: Access to state-of-the-art design software, visualization tools, and project management platforms is expected.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with a diverse team of local and international professionals, including architects, engineers, project managers, and Qiddiya leadership.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week provides a structured environment, but the demanding nature of large-scale development projects may necessitate occasional flexibility to meet critical deadlines or attend global stakeholder calls.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is expected to be professional and resource-rich, reflecting the scale and ambition of Qiddiya. The emphasis on collaboration and access to advanced tools is crucial for managing complex design projects effectively.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruitment team will review applications and resumes for minimum qualifications and relevant experience.

• Technical Interview: Conducted by the Design Director or senior members of the design team, focusing on design management methodologies, project execution experience, and technical expertise.

• Case Study Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a detailed case study from their portfolio, demonstrating their problem-solving skills, strategic approach, and ability to manage complex design challenges. This is a critical part of the evaluation.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of leadership style, collaboration abilities, communication skills, and alignment with Qiddiya's values and culture. This may involve senior leadership.

• Final Decision: Based on overall performance across all interview stages.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects that showcase leadership in planning and design for large-scale developments.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the solutions you implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, stakeholder satisfaction).

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your systematic approach to design guideline development, consultant management, and design reviews. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Tell a Story: Structure your presentation to narrate your journey through each project, demonstrating your strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and leadership.

• Tailor to Qiddiya: Research Qiddiya's vision and existing projects to tailor your presentation and highlight how your experience aligns with their specific needs and ambitions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing conflicting design requirements from various stakeholders.

• Anticipate questions about how you ensure design consistency across multiple concurrent projects.

• Practice articulating your methodology for selecting and managing design consultants, including contract negotiation strategies.

• Develop a clear framework for presenting your portfolio case studies effectively and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role at Qiddiya will be rigorous. The portfolio presentation is a key differentiator, requiring candidates to not only showcase past work but also demonstrate their strategic thinking and process management capabilities in a compelling narrative.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in industry-standard platforms such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar for managing project timelines, resources, and dependencies.

• Design & Visualization Software: Familiarity with tools like AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Lumion, or similar for understanding and reviewing design deliverables. While not a hands-on designer, understanding these tools is crucial.

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

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with platforms for organizing and accessing project documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project reports, feasibility studies, and performance metrics.

• Presentation Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides for creating impactful presentations for leadership and stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP/Project Finance Systems: Understanding of how design and planning integrate with broader financial and resource management systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is not primarily technical in terms of design software operation, a strong understanding of the tools used in the design and project management lifecycle is essential for effective oversight and collaboration with consultants and internal teams. The ability to leverage data for decision-making is also key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Innovation: A commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering world-class design solutions that redefine entertainment and leisure experiences.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective effort drives successful outcomes.

• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities and project outcomes.

• Customer Centricity: Ensuring all design decisions prioritize the end-user experience and create memorable moments for visitors.

• Efficiency & Optimization: Striving for streamlined processes and cost-effective solutions without compromising quality or vision.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with various departments (e.g., operations, marketing, finance, legal) to ensure holistic project development.

• Consultant Partnership: Building strong, collaborative relationships with external design consultants, treating them as integral partners in achieving Qiddiya's vision.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and regular communication channels to address challenges, share progress, and solicit feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Qiddiya's values are likely geared towards ambition, innovation, and delivering a unique, high-quality experience. The Senior Design Manager will need to embody these values, fostering a collaborative spirit that bridges internal teams and external partners to achieve extraordinary results.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scale and Complexity: Managing the design for an unprecedentedly large and multifaceted entertainment destination, involving numerous interconnected projects.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of various internal stakeholders, investors, and future operational teams.

• Innovation vs. Practicality: Ensuring cutting-edge design concepts are both innovative and practically implementable within budget and schedule constraints.

• Global Standards: Adhering to international best practices while also respecting and integrating local cultural nuances and regulations.

• Pace of Development: Working within an ambitious timeline to deliver a project of this magnitude.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Project Leadership: Gaining experience managing the design lifecycle of mega-projects, a rare and valuable career asset.

• Industry Specialization: Deepening knowledge in niche areas of entertainment, sports, or cultural design through exposure to specialized consultants and project types.

• Global Best Practices: Learning from international design firms and incorporating global trends into Qiddiya's unique offering.

• Strategic Impact: Contributing directly to the strategic vision and physical realization of a world-leading entertainment destination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to mega-projects. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a unique chance to shape a landmark development and gain unparalleled experience in managing complex design and planning initiatives.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing and implementing design guidelines for a large-scale, multi-use development like Qiddiya." Focus on how you ensure consistency, quality, and alignment with master plans.

• "Walk us through a situation where you had to manage conflicting design requirements from multiple stakeholders. How did you resolve it and what was the outcome?" Emphasize your negotiation and problem-solving skills.

• "How do you approach the selection and management of design consultants for complex projects? What are the key criteria you look for, and how do you ensure contract compliance and performance?" Detail your RFP and contract administration process. Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Qiddiya and this specific role, given its unique industry and scale?" Connect your career aspirations and expertise to Qiddiya's vision.

• "How do you foster collaboration between design teams, project management, and operational stakeholders?" Provide examples of successful cross-functional integration.

• "How do you ensure that design decisions are not only aesthetically pleasing but also operationally efficient and financially viable?" Discuss your process for balancing these competing demands. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a high-level overview of Qiddiya, then present your selected projects chronologically or by complexity. For each project: problem, your solution, process (guidelines, consultant management, reviews), and results (quantifiable impact).

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, renderings, site plans, and process diagrams. Keep text concise and focus on key takeaways.

• Delivery: Practice your presentation to ensure it flows well, stays within the allotted time, and clearly articulates your strategic thinking and leadership. Be prepared for in-depth questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, robust process management, and leadership capabilities. The portfolio presentation is your primary tool for showcasing these attributes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workable link, ensuring your resume and cover letter are tailored to the role.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select and organize your most impactful projects, focusing on large-scale developments. Ensure each case study clearly outlines your role, the challenges, your strategic approach, implemented solutions, and quantifiable results related to design quality, budget, and schedule.

• Craft Your Cover Letter: Highlight your relevant experience (9-12 years), specific skills in design management, planning, and consultant coordination, and express your enthusiasm for Qiddiya's vision.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on clear communication, strategic insights, and your ability to articulate complex processes and outcomes concisely.

• Research Qiddiya: Thoroughly understand Qiddiya's mission, current projects, and values to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment during interviews.

⚠️ 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.