Senior Design Manager - Public Realm

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager - Public Realm

Company: Qiddiya Investment Company

Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design Management / Urban Planning / Real Estate Development

Date Posted: 2026-08-26

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the comprehensive planning, design coordination, and successful delivery of public realm projects across designated districts and citywide initiatives, ensuring alignment with strategic masterplans and operational requirements.

• Manage and mentor multidisciplinary consultant teams throughout all design stages, from conceptualization through detailed design, upholding high standards of quality and compliance.

• Ensure all public realm designs strictly adhere to approved masterplans, Stage Gate requirements, citywide standards, and the Public Realm Design Manual (PRDM), embodying People First Principles.

• Act as the primary day-to-day public realm lead for district delivery teams, fostering seamless integration with infrastructure, mobility, utilities, sustainability, and operational stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for translating the vision of a large-scale development into tangible, high-quality public spaces. The emphasis on "People First Principles" and a dedicated "Public Realm Design Manual (PRDM)" suggests a strong focus on user experience, community integration, and a standardized, high-quality approach to urban design within Qiddiya.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the Lead Public Realm Design Manager for assigned districts and project portfolios, overseeing all aspects of design development.

• Steward public realm design progression through crucial stages including Conceptual Master Plan (CMP), Detailed Master Plan (DMP), Land Servicing, and detailed design phases.

• Rigorously coordinate and review consultant deliverables, ensuring strict adherence to approved masterplans, design standards, and all technical project requirements.

• Actively support the implementation and enforcement of citywide public realm strategies, established standards, and PRDM guidelines.

• Facilitate and manage complex public realm interfaces with critical infrastructure, mobility networks, utility services, irrigation systems, sustainability initiatives, environmental considerations, and operational teams.

• Conduct thorough reviews of design submissions, providing clear technical recommendations to facilitate Stage Gate approvals and project progression.

• Proactively monitor programme delivery timelines, identify potential design risks, and manage key project dependencies to ensure timely completion.

• Provide significant support for procurement activities, including consultant management, precise scope development, and comprehensive RFP (Request for Proposal) reviews.

• Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering consistency in public realm delivery methodologies and governance practices across the organization.

• Contribute substantively to the ongoing development and refinement of public realm standards, technical guidance documents, and innovative, best-practice design solutions for the entire city.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic oversight, technical expertise, and hands-on project management. The emphasis on Stage Gate approvals and risk mitigation points to a structured, corporate project delivery environment common in large-scale development projects. The requirement to contribute to standards development indicates an opportunity for thought leadership.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture is a mandatory requirement. Experience:

• A minimum of 10–15 years of progressive experience specifically within landscape architecture, public realm design, urban design, or managing large-scale development projects.

• Proven experience in successfully managing multidisciplinary consultant teams through all phases of the design process, from inception to completion.

• Demonstrable experience working on complex, large-scale mixed-use developments, comprehensively masterplanned communities, or significant mega-projects. Required Skills:

• Expertise in Public Realm Design principles and application in urban environments.

• Strong proficiency in Landscape Architecture and its integration into masterplans.

• Solid understanding of Urban Design concepts and their translation into built form.

• Proven Project Management capabilities, with a focus on design delivery.

• Demonstrated Consultant Management skills, including performance evaluation and relationship building.

• Experience with Masterplanning processes and ensuring design consistency.

• Ability to provide effective Technical Leadership to design teams.

• Excellence in Design Coordination across multiple disciplines and stakeholders.

• Deep technical understanding of Infrastructure Interfaces, including utilities, mobility, and servicing.

• Proficient in Stakeholder Management, engaging effectively with internal and external parties.

• Strong Risk Mitigation strategies for design and project delivery challenges.

• Experience in Procurement processes for design services and consultants.

• Ability to conduct thorough Design Review processes.

• Strategic thinking for Strategic Planning of public spaces.

• Capability for Mentorship and team development. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific Public Realm Design Manuals (PRDM) or similar comprehensive design guidelines.

• Familiarity with sustainability frameworks and environmental design integration.

• Knowledge of irrigation systems design and management.

• Understanding of hardscape and softscape material selection and specification.

• Experience with People First Principles in urban development.

• Proficiency in relevant design software and project management tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 10-15 years, coupled with a Bachelor's in Landscape Architecture, positions this as a senior-level role. The emphasis on managing multidisciplinary consultants and understanding infrastructure interfaces points to the need for a candidate with broad technical knowledge and strong organizational skills. The mention of "mega-projects" suggests experience with exceptionally large and complex undertakings.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio showcasing successful management and delivery of significant public realm projects, including parks, streetscapes, plazas, and pedestrian networks.

• Present case studies that clearly illustrate the process of design development from concept through detailed design, highlighting coordination efforts and problem-solving.

• Include examples of design review documentation and the process of managing consultant feedback and revisions.

• Showcase experience in integrating public realm design with broader infrastructure and masterplanning initiatives, demonstrating a holistic approach.

• Provide evidence of managing design risks and ensuring compliance with project standards and guidelines. Process Documentation:

• Detail your approach to managing the design development lifecycle, from initial brief to final construction documentation.

• Explain your methods for coordinating multidisciplinary inputs and resolving design conflicts efficiently.

• Describe your system for tracking consultant progress, reviewing deliverables, and providing constructive feedback.

• Outline your strategy for ensuring designs meet Stage Gate requirements and align with masterplan objectives.

• Illustrate how you ensure adherence to specific design manuals and standards, such as the PRDM.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is crucial. Candidates should prepare to present detailed case studies of past public realm projects, emphasizing their management role, the complexity of the projects, the coordination challenges overcome, and the final outcomes. A focus on process, standards adherence, and stakeholder integration will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers with 10-15 years of experience in major urban development projects in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, the estimated annual salary range is SAR 350,000 - SAR 550,000 (approximately USD 93,000 - USD 147,000). This estimate considers the high cost of living, the strategic importance of Qiddiya, and the specialized nature of the role. Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.

• Relocation assistance package for international hires.

• Housing allowance or company-provided accommodation.

• Transportation allowance.

• Annual flight tickets for employee and dependents (if applicable).

• Generous annual leave entitlement.

• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.

• Performance-based bonuses.

• Access to Qiddiya's world-class facilities and amenities. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. Some flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend critical meetings, especially given the project's scale and international nature.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges are estimated based on Riyadh's market rates for senior roles in large-scale development projects. Benefits are typical for major international companies operating in Saudi Arabia, especially for roles attracting global talent. The specific benefits package should be confirmed during the offer stage.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Entertainment, Tourism, Sports, and Real Estate Development. Qiddiya represents a monumental vision to establish a global entertainment and lifestyle destination in Saudi Arabia, driving significant economic diversification and job creation.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (likely over 1,000 employees, with a significant portion dedicated to project development and management).

Founded: Qiddiya Investment Company was established in 2017, backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), signifying a long-term commitment and substantial financial backing for its ambitious projects.

Team Structure:

• The Public Realm team likely operates within a larger Design & Development division, reporting to a Director of Public Realm.

• This role involves managing external consultant teams and collaborating closely with internal departments such as Masterplanning, Infrastructure, Mobility, Sustainability, and Operations.

• The structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration and clear lines of responsibility for project delivery. Methodology:

• Qiddiya operates with a structured, phased approach to project delivery, heavily reliant on Stage Gate processes for approvals and risk management.

• A strong emphasis is placed on adhering to masterplans, design guidelines (like the PRDM), and international best practices.

• Data-driven decision-making and performance monitoring are integral, supported by robust project management and reporting systems.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Qiddiya is a flagship project of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, indicating a high-stakes, fast-paced, and strategically important work environment. The culture likely values innovation, rigorous execution, and adherence to ambitious timelines and quality standards.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management position, indicating a leadership role responsible for significant project components and team oversight. It sits above individual contributor roles and junior management positions, requiring strategic input and significant decision-making authority within its domain.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager – Public Realm typically reports to a Director of Public Realm or a similar senior executive within the Design & Development division. They, in turn, manage external design consultants and may oversee junior design managers or coordinators.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and profound impact on the physical form and user experience of Qiddiya. Successful public realm design is crucial for creating an attractive, functional, and memorable destination, directly influencing visitor satisfaction, operational efficiency, and the overall success of the Qiddiya project as a global attraction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential progression to Director of Public Realm or a broader Head of Design role within Qiddiya or related PIF projects.

• Specialization Deepening: Opportunity to become a recognized expert in mega-project public realm design, potentially leading specialized design initiatives or strategic planning efforts.

• Broader Project Exposure: Involvement in the strategic evolution of Qiddiya, contributing to future phases and masterplan updates, offering exposure to diverse project types within the destination.

• Professional Development: Access to advanced training, industry conferences, and certifications related to urban design, landscape architecture, and mega-project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to shape a world-class destination from its foundational stages. The scale and ambition of Qiddiya provide a platform for significant career growth and professional development in a high-profile setting.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, within the Qiddiya development's project offices or corporate headquarters. This environment is likely modern, well-equipped, and designed to support large-scale project teams.

Office Location(s): The primary work location will be in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, at the Qiddiya project site or associated offices.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, fostering interaction with project managers, engineers, urban planners, and other design professionals.

• Access to state-of-the-art design software, project management tools, and potentially on-site project facilities will be available.

• Expect a dynamic environment with frequent site visits to observe construction progress and coordinate with site teams.

• Opportunities for engagement with senior leadership and cross-functional teams are common in such large-scale developments.

Work Schedule: While standard office hours are expected, the demanding nature of mega-project delivery may necessitate occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, attend stakeholder meetings, or conduct site inspections. Flexibility and a commitment to project success are key.

📝 Enhancement Note: Working on-site in Riyadh for a project of this magnitude implies a highly professional and structured work environment. Expect a fast-paced setting with a strong emphasis on collaboration and adherence to project timelines.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruitment partner will review applications and resumes to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Technical Interview: A panel interview with senior design and project management leads to evaluate technical expertise in public realm design, urban planning, and project delivery methodologies. Expect detailed questions on your experience with large-scale projects and consultant management.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, showcasing key projects, design approaches, and management capabilities. Be prepared to discuss your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes in detail.

• Cultural Fit / Behavioral Interview: Assessment of alignment with Qiddiya's values, teamwork capabilities, problem-solving approach, and leadership potential.

• Final Interview: Meeting with senior leadership (e.g., Director of Public Realm, Head of Design) for final evaluation and offer discussion.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful public realm projects. Prioritize those demonstrating scale, complexity, and successful delivery.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities and contributions as a manager and design lead. Use "I" for direct contributions and "we" for team achievements.

• Showcase Process: Illustrate your design development process, coordination efforts, and how you managed consultants and stakeholders. Include examples of design reviews and approvals.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., adherence to budget/schedule, achievement of specific design objectives, positive feedback).

• Address Challenges: Be prepared to discuss challenges encountered and how you overcame them, demonstrating problem-solving skills and resilience.

• Tailor to Qiddiya: Emphasize projects that align with Qiddiya's vision – large-scale, mixed-use, community-focused, and aesthetically significant public spaces.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for scenario-based questions related to managing design conflicts, handling underperforming consultants, or navigating Stage Gate reviews.

• Prepare to discuss your approach to implementing new design standards or integrating sustainability goals into public realm projects.

• Practice articulating your design philosophy and leadership style concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, assessing not only technical skills but also the ability to manage complex projects and teams in a high-stakes environment. A well-prepared, visually compelling portfolio is non-negotiable.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with platforms like Procore, Oracle Aconex, or similar enterprise-level project management systems for tracking progress, managing documents, and facilitating communication.

• Design Software: Familiarity with industry-standard CAD (e.g., AutoCAD), BIM (e.g., Revit), and 3D modeling/visualization tools (e.g., SketchUp, Lumion, Rhino) is beneficial for understanding consultant deliverables and providing feedback, even if not directly creating designs.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to interpret and utilize reports generated from project management systems regarding schedule adherence, budget tracking, and risk status.

• Data Analysis: Basic analytical skills to assess design compliance against metrics and identify trends or potential issues.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design management role, but understanding how CRM data might influence public space usage or operational planning could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is not primarily a software developer or analyst, a strong understanding of the tools used by design consultants and project managers is essential for effective oversight and coordination. Familiarity with enterprise-level project management and collaboration software is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering world-class public spaces that meet the highest aesthetic and functional standards.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where internal departments and external consultants work cohesively towards shared goals.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions and forward-thinking design approaches to create unique and memorable experiences.

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings, from consultant management to project delivery.

• People First: Prioritizing the user experience and community impact in all design decisions, as reflected in the PRDM and People First Principles.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, requiring proactive engagement with diverse internal teams (e.g., infrastructure, mobility, sustainability, operations, masterplanning) and external consultants.

• Open communication channels and regular feedback loops are expected to ensure alignment and address issues promptly.

• A structured approach to meetings and design reviews, ensuring all stakeholders have a voice and their input is considered.

📝 Enhancement Note: Qiddiya's ambitious vision necessitates a culture of high performance, collaboration, and a shared commitment to excellence. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to thrive in a dynamic, results-oriented environment while upholding strong ethical and professional values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scale and Complexity: Managing the sheer size and intricate integration requirements of public realm elements within a mega-project presents significant logistical and design challenges.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of various internal departments, external consultants, and potentially regulatory bodies can be demanding.

• Adherence to Standards: Ensuring consistent application of the PRDM and other citywide standards across numerous projects and consultants requires vigilance and strong governance.

• Pace of Delivery: Meeting aggressive project timelines while maintaining design quality and innovation requires exceptional project management and problem-solving skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mega-Project Expertise: Gain unparalleled experience in the planning and execution of large-scale, multifaceted developments.

• Public Realm Strategy: Contribute to shaping the future of urban public spaces in a rapidly developing region.

• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Deepen understanding of infrastructure, mobility, sustainability, and operational aspects integrated with public realm design.

• Leadership Development: Hone leadership and management skills within a high-performing team environment.

• Industry Exposure: Attend leading international conferences and workshops focused on urban design, landscape architecture, and mega-project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant challenges that are directly tied to substantial growth opportunities. Successfully navigating these complexities will provide invaluable experience and career advancement potential.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design development process for a large-scale public realm project, from concept to construction documentation." (Focus on your process, tools, and team management.)

• "How do you ensure that public realm designs align with masterplans, citywide standards, and specific design manuals like the PRDM?" (Highlight your review process and adherence mechanisms.)

• "Walk us through a complex public realm project you managed. What were the key challenges, how did you coordinate multidisciplinary teams, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a concise case study from your portfolio.)

• "How do you manage underperforming consultants or resolve design conflicts between different disciplines?" (Demonstrate your problem-solving and negotiation skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Qiddiya and this specific role within the Public Realm team?" (Research Qiddiya's vision and connect it to your career goals.)

• "How do you approach fostering collaboration between design teams, infrastructure, and operational departments?" (Emphasize your communication and stakeholder management skills.)

• "How do you ensure a 'People First' approach is integrated into public realm design?" (Discuss user experience, accessibility, and community engagement.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of your role and responsibilities, then dive into 2-3 detailed project case studies. Conclude with a summary of your overall approach and capabilities.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images, plans, and diagrams. Keep text concise on slides, focusing on verbal explanation.

• Narrative: Tell a compelling story for each project, highlighting the problem, your solution, the process, and the results.

• Metrics: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., project completion on time/budget, specific design features implemented, user feedback).

• Q&A: Anticipate questions about design choices, challenges, and your management style.

📝 Enhancement Note: Thorough preparation, including practicing your portfolio presentation and anticipating scenario-based questions, will be critical for success in this interview process. Demonstrating a strategic mindset and strong leadership capabilities is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager - Public Realm position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight experience in large-scale public realm projects, urban design, masterplanning, and consultant management. Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your role in design coordination and project delivery.

• Resume Optimization: Focus on quantifiable achievements and responsibilities relevant to the job description. Use keywords such as "Public Realm," "Landscape Architecture," "Urban Design," "Masterplanning," "Stage Gate," "PRDM," and "Consultant Management."

• Company Research: Deeply understand Qiddiya's vision, its place within Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, and its commitment to "People First Principles" and the PRDM. This will help you articulate your alignment with the company's goals.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail and practice answering scenario-based questions related to design management, stakeholder coordination, and risk mitigation in mega-project environments.

⚠️ 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.