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 / Public Realm Development

Date Posted: August 26, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the planning, design coordination, and successful delivery of public realm projects within assigned districts and citywide initiatives.

• Manage and mentor multidisciplinary consultant teams throughout all design stages, ensuring high-quality deliverables.

• Uphold and implement citywide public realm strategies, standards, and the Public Realm Design Manual (PRDM) to ensure project alignment.

• Foster strong cross-functional collaboration with infrastructure, mobility, utilities, sustainability, and operational teams to integrate public realm requirements seamlessly.

• Drive technical leadership and provide expert recommendations for Stage Gate approvals, mitigating design, program, and technical risks.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for ensuring the development of high-quality, people-centric public spaces that align with Qiddiya's vision. The emphasis on PRDM, People First Principles, and multidisciplinary coordination indicates a focus on integrated urban development and placemaking.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the Lead Public Realm Design Manager for designated districts and project portfolios, overseeing their planning and design evolution from Conceptual Master Plan (CMP) and Detailed Master Plan (DMP) through land servicing and detailed design phases.

• Rigorously coordinate and meticulously review consultant deliverables, verifying their adherence to approved masterplans, established design standards, and technical specifications.

• Actively support the implementation of citywide public realm strategies, standards, and requirements as defined by the Public Realm Design Manual (PRDM).

• Facilitate seamless coordination of public realm interfaces with critical adjacent disciplines, including infrastructure, mobility, utilities, irrigation, sustainability, environmental, and operational teams.

• Conduct thorough reviews of design submissions, providing well-reasoned technical recommendations to support timely and effective Stage Gate approvals.

• Proactively monitor program delivery timelines, identify potential design risks, and manage key project dependencies to ensure on-schedule progress.

• Contribute significantly to procurement activities, including consultant selection, scope definition, and Request for Proposal (RFP) reviews.

• Mentor and guide junior team members, fostering a culture of consistency in public realm delivery, governance, and adherence to best practices.

• Contribute to the ongoing development and refinement of public realm standards, technical guidance documents, and innovative design solutions applicable across the entire city development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on process management, quality control, and stakeholder alignment, typical for a senior role in a large-scale development project. The mention of "Stage Gate requirements" and "governance" suggests a structured project delivery framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Landscape Architecture. Experience:

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

• Demonstrated experience successfully managing multidisciplinary consultant teams through all phases of the design process.

• Proven track record of working on large-scale mixed-use developments, master-planned communities, or significant mega-projects. Required Skills:

• Landscape Architecture Expertise: Deep understanding of design principles, planting design, hardscape detailing, and materials specific to public realm environments.

• Public Realm Design & Urban Planning: Proficiency in conceptualizing and detailing public spaces, streetscapes, plazas, parks, and pedestrian networks.

• Consultant Management: Proven ability to effectively manage external design consultants, including scope management, performance reviews, and deliverable quality assurance.

• Design Coordination & Integration: Skill in coordinating multidisciplinary design inputs (infrastructure, utilities, mobility, etc.) to ensure cohesive and compliant public realm outcomes.

• Technical Understanding: Strong knowledge of public realm systems, including parks, streetscapes, irrigation, hardscape, softscape, and their interfaces with broader infrastructure and utilities.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to monitor program delivery, manage risks, and track project dependencies within a large-scale development context.

• Regulatory Compliance: Familiarity with design standards, masterplans, and the ability to ensure deliverables meet approved requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Public Realm Design Manual (PRDM) Experience: Familiarity or direct experience working with comprehensive public realm design guidelines.

• People First Principles Application: Understanding and ability to apply principles that prioritize user experience and community well-being in design.

• Sustainability Integration: Knowledge of sustainable design practices relevant to public realm development (e.g., water management, green infrastructure).

• Stakeholder Engagement: Experience interacting with various internal and external stakeholders to gather input and ensure alignment.

• Procurement & RFP Processes: Familiarity with the nuances of consultant procurement and RFP evaluation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a Bachelor's in Landscape Architecture and 10-15 years of experience positions this as a senior role requiring significant technical depth and management capability. The specific mention of "PRDM" and "People First Principles" indicates a strong focus on established design guidelines and user-centricity.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant public realm or urban design projects, clearly detailing your role and contributions.

• Include examples of design coordination across multiple disciplines (e.g., civil, structural, MEP, landscape).

• Demonstrate experience in managing consultant deliverables through various design stages (conceptual, schematic, detailed).

• Present case studies that highlight problem-solving within public realm design, such as integrating complex site constraints or utility requirements.

• Illustrate your understanding and application of design standards, masterplans, and specific design manuals (e.g., PRDM if applicable) in project execution. Process Documentation:

• Provide evidence of workflow management for design projects, from initiation through to approval stages.

• Include examples of how you have documented design reviews, technical recommendations, and Stage Gate submissions.

• Showcase experience in developing or contributing to design standards, technical guidance, or best-practice documents for public realm development.

• Demonstrate how you have tracked and reported on program delivery, design risks, and project dependencies for large-scale initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on managing design delivery and consultant teams, a portfolio demonstrating robust process management, coordination skills, and a strong understanding of large-scale project lifecycles will be critical. The ability to articulate how standards and guidelines are applied is paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the location (Riyadh, Saudi Arabia), the seniority of the role (Senior Manager, 10-15 years of experience), and the nature of the project (Qiddiya Investment Company, a mega-project), the estimated annual salary range for a Senior Design Manager - Public Realm is likely between SAR 400,000 to SAR 650,000 (approximately USD 106,000 to USD 173,000). This range is based on industry benchmarks for senior design and project management roles in the GCC region, considering the high cost of living and specialized expertise required for mega-developments.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Coverage for employees and potentially dependents, often including international medical standards.

• Relocation Assistance: Support for expatriate employees, which may include flights, temporary accommodation, and settling-in allowances.

• Annual Flights: Return airfare for employees and their families to their home country.

• Housing Allowance: A stipend to assist with rental accommodation costs.

• Discretionary Bonus: Performance-based annual bonus, subject to company and individual performance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for further training, certifications, and attending industry conferences relevant to public realm design and urban planning.

• End-of-Service Benefits: Gratuity payment as per Saudi Labor Law upon completion of service.

Working Hours:

The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, often structured as 8 hours per day, Sunday to Thursday. Some flexibility may be expected due to project demands, particularly during critical delivery phases or for coordinating with international teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on market research for senior roles in the construction and development sectors in Saudi Arabia, considering the scale and prestige of the Qiddiya project. Benefits are typical for expatriate packages in the region.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development / Entertainment & Tourism / Urban Planning

Company Size: Large (Likely 1,000+ employees, given the scale of Qiddiya)

Founded: 2017 (Qiddiya Investment Company)

Team Structure:

• The Public Realm team is likely a specialized unit within Qiddiya's broader Development or Design department.

• It will consist of a Director, Senior Managers, Managers, and potentially specialist designers or coordinators.

• This team will work closely with other departments such as Master Planning, Infrastructure, Architecture, Sustainability, Operations, and Commercial teams.

• The reporting structure will likely lead up to a VP or Chief Development Officer, with the Senior Design Manager reporting to the Public Realm Director. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Decisions are informed by masterplans, user research, sustainability targets, and operational requirements.

• Integrated Project Delivery: Emphasis on early and continuous collaboration between design, engineering, and construction disciplines.

• Stage-Gated Process: A structured project management approach with defined milestones and review points for design approvals.

• Quality Assurance & Governance: Robust systems for ensuring design quality, compliance with standards, and risk mitigation.

• People-Centric Approach: Designs are guided by principles that prioritize the experience and well-being of visitors and residents.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Qiddiya is a giga-project aiming to be a global entertainment, sports, and arts destination. This implies a culture focused on innovation, speed, high standards, and significant collaboration to achieve ambitious goals. The operations and design teams will be instrumental in bringing this vision to life.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is firmly placed at a Senior Management level within the design and development hierarchy. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in public realm and urban design, coupled with significant project management and leadership capabilities. The scope involves managing complex, high-value projects and influencing strategic design decisions for large districts.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager – Public Realm will report directly to the Public Realm Director. This Director, in turn, likely reports to a Vice President of Development or Design within Qiddiya's organizational structure. The role involves managing external consultants and mentoring junior internal staff, indicating a leadership capacity.

Operations Impact: The impact of this role is profound and far-reaching. Successful execution of public realm projects directly shapes the visitor and resident experience, defines the aesthetic and functional quality of Qiddiya, and is critical for achieving the project's vision as a world-class destination. Effective coordination ensures that public spaces are not only beautiful but also functional, sustainable, and seamlessly integrated with all other project elements, directly contributing to the overall success and appeal of Qiddiya.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to Director-level roles within Public Realm, Urban Design, or broader Development departments as Qiddiya continues to grow and evolve.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of public realm design, such as sustainable placemaking, cultural integration, or advanced urban mobility design within large-scale contexts.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Potential to move into broader project management or development management roles, overseeing larger or more diverse project portfolios.

• Strategic Influence: Involvement in shaping the future design standards and development strategies for Qiddiya, contributing to the long-term vision of the destination.

• Mentorship & Team Building: Opportunity to build and lead high-performing design teams, contributing to talent development within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant career progression within a landmark development. The opportunity to shape a globally recognized destination provides a unique platform for growth and impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based role, situated within Qiddiya's project headquarters or a dedicated design center. The environment will likely be modern, professional, and collaborative, designed to support the intensive coordination and planning required for a project of this magnitude.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, within the Qiddiya development site or associated administrative offices. Access to the site for site visits and on-ground coordination will be a key aspect of the role.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: Expect an environment that encourages frequent interaction with internal design teams, project managers, engineers, and external consultants. Open-plan areas or dedicated project rooms may be utilized for intensive coordination sessions.

• Technology-Rich: Access to advanced design software, BIM platforms, VR/AR tools for design visualization, and robust communication systems will be standard.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings, design workshops, and cross-functional reviews will be common. The ability to build rapport and communicate effectively within a diverse team is essential.

• Site Integration: While primarily office-based, regular site visits to ongoing construction and developed areas will be integral to understanding project progress and informing design decisions.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week (Sunday-Thursday) will apply. However, given the demanding nature of mega-project delivery, occasional overtime or extended hours may be required to meet critical deadlines, particularly around Stage Gate reviews or urgent design coordination needs. Flexibility and commitment are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment will be dynamic and fast-paced, reflecting the ambitious nature of the Qiddiya project. Collaboration and adaptability will be key to success.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview (Round 1): Discussion with a hiring manager or senior member of the Public Realm/Design team. Focus on technical expertise in landscape architecture, public realm design principles, and understanding of large-scale projects.

• Portfolio Review & Case Study Presentation (Round 2): Candidates will present their portfolio, highlighting relevant projects and demonstrating their approach to design management, consultant coordination, and problem-solving. This may include a specific case study related to public realm integration or delivery challenges.

• Cross-Functional/Leadership Interview (Round 3): Conversation with other key stakeholders (e.g., Head of Infrastructure, Development Director) to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and strategic thinking.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a VP or Director, focusing on overall fit, long-term vision, and alignment with Qiddiya's strategic goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your experience in public realm design, urban planning, and managing complex projects. Prioritize those demonstrating your leadership and coordination capabilities.

• Detail Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, contributions, and decision-making authority on each project. Use "I" statements for direct contributions and "We" for team efforts.

• Showcase Process: Illustrate your design process, from concept development and stakeholder engagement to technical detailing and coordination with engineering disciplines.

• Highlight Problem-Solving: Present challenges encountered and how you effectively resolved them, emphasizing your analytical and technical skills.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your projects (e.g., adherence to budget/schedule, positive user feedback, sustainability achievements).

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is visually appealing, well-organized, and easy to navigate. Use high-quality images, drawings, and concise descriptions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge related to integrating public realm elements within a complex urban context or addressing specific user needs. Focus on your methodology, key considerations, and decision-making process.

• Coordination Exercise: You might be asked to outline how you would coordinate public realm design with infrastructure or mobility teams, highlighting communication strategies and risk mitigation.

• Standard Interpretation: Practice discussing how you would interpret and apply design standards (like a PRDM) to ensure project compliance while allowing for creative solutions.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Prepare to discuss your approach to managing teams, motivating consultants, and mentoring junior designers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess technical expertise, project management skills, and collaborative capabilities. A strong, well-presented portfolio is critical for demonstrating practical experience and problem-solving abilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD, MicroStation (common in large infrastructure/development projects).

• 3D Modeling & Visualization: SketchUp, Rhino, 3ds Max, Lumion, Enscape for creating design models and renderings.

• BIM Software: Navisworks for clash detection and coordination; Revit for parametric design and information management (increasingly standard).

• GIS Software: ArcGIS for spatial analysis and understanding site context.

• Project Management Software: MS Project, Primavera P6 for scheduling and program management; Asana, Monday.com for task management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis: Microsoft Excel (advanced functions), potentially Power BI or Tableau for creating dashboards and analyzing project data related to scope, budget, and schedule.

• Reporting Tools: Standard office suite for generating reports, presentations, and technical documentation.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, familiarity with project management platforms that track stakeholder interactions and deliverables is beneficial.

• Automation in design processes might involve scripting (e.g., Grasshopper for Rhino) for repetitive tasks or using BIM tools for automated documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard design and project management software is expected. Experience with BIM and advanced visualization tools will be a significant advantage, reflecting the scale and technological sophistication of the Qiddiya project.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

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

• Collaboration & Integration: Fostering a spirit of teamwork and partnership across all disciplines to achieve unified project goals.

• Innovation & Vision: Embracing creative solutions and forward-thinking approaches to design and development that align with Qiddiya's ambitious vision.

• Accountability & Delivery: Taking ownership of responsibilities, managing risks effectively, and ensuring timely and successful project outcomes.

• People-Centricity: Designing spaces that prioritize the safety, comfort, enjoyment, and well-being of all users.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Partnership: A proactive approach to working with engineering, infrastructure, mobility, sustainability, and operational teams, ensuring seamless integration of public realm elements.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and frequent dialogue, feedback, and knowledge sharing among team members and stakeholders.

• Constructive Debate: Valuing diverse perspectives and engaging in professional discussions to arrive at the best design solutions.

• Proactive Problem Solving: A culture that encourages identifying potential issues early and working collaboratively to find effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture will likely be driven by the giga-project's ambitious goals, demanding a high level of professionalism, collaboration, and commitment to excellence from all team members.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scale & Complexity: Managing the design and delivery of public realm across vast districts within a mega-project presents immense logistical and coordination challenges.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the diverse requirements and expectations of numerous internal departments, external consultants, and potentially regulatory bodies.

• Integration of Diverse Systems: Ensuring the seamless integration of public realm with complex infrastructure, utilities, mobility networks, and operational requirements.

• Adherence to Standards & Vision: Maintaining design integrity and adherence to the PRDM and People First Principles while accommodating site-specific needs and innovation.

• Pace of Delivery: Working within aggressive timelines common to mega-projects, requiring efficient processes and rapid decision-making.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Mega-Project Management: Gaining invaluable experience managing the design lifecycle of one of the world's most ambitious development projects.

• Advanced Design Integration: Deepening expertise in coordinating public realm with cutting-edge infrastructure, mobility solutions, and sustainable technologies.

• Leadership & Mentorship: Developing leadership skills through managing consultant teams and mentoring junior designers within a high-performing environment.

• Industry Best Practices: Learning and applying the latest trends and best practices in urban design, placemaking, and public space development on a global scale.

• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Expanding knowledge base by working closely with experts in architecture, infrastructure, engineering, sustainability, and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a unique opportunity to tackle significant challenges in a transformative project, leading to substantial professional growth and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design process for public realm projects from concept to detailed design within a large-scale master-planned development." (Focus on process, stages, documentation, and QC).

• "How would you ensure effective coordination and integration between public realm design and critical infrastructure/utility requirements?" (Highlight collaboration, communication, and technical understanding).

• "Walk us through a challenging public realm project you managed. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a specific case study from your portfolio, emphasizing problem-solving and results).

• "How do you ensure design deliverables comply with established masterplans, design manuals (like PRDM), and company standards while fostering innovation?" (Discuss balancing constraints and creativity). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Qiddiya and this specific role?" (Research Qiddiya's vision, current projects, and align your interests).

• "How do you approach working within a large, multidisciplinary team environment? Describe your collaboration style." (Emphasize teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution).

• "How do you stay updated on the latest trends in public realm design and urban planning?" (Showcase continuous learning and industry engagement).

• "What do you consider to be the most critical elements of successful public spaces, especially in a destination like Qiddiya?" (Refer to People First Principles and user experience). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Flow: Structure your presentation to tell a story for each project: the objective, your role, the challenges, your design process and solutions, and the final outcome/impact.

• Visual Emphasis: Use high-quality visuals (renderings, plans, photos) to convey design intent and quality. Keep text concise on slides.

• Highlight Coordination: Specifically point out instances where you managed multidisciplinary inputs or resolved interface issues.

• Demonstrate Process: Show examples of design development, technical details, and how you applied standards or guidelines.

• Quantify Success: If possible, include metrics related to project delivery, user satisfaction, or sustainability achievements.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, project management methods, and technical expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only technical design skills but also strong project management, leadership, and collaborative abilities, all crucial for a senior role on a project of Qiddiya's magnitude.

📌 Application Steps

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

• Submit your application through the provided Workable link, ensuring all required fields are completed accurately.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your 10-15 years of experience, specifically mentioning large-scale developments, public realm design, urban planning, and consultant management. Use keywords from the job description such as "Public Realm Design Manual (PRDM)", "Master Planning", "Stage Gate", and "Multidisciplinary Coordination".

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest public realm and urban design projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your role, design process, coordination efforts, and problem-solving skills. Be ready to present this professionally.

• Research Qiddiya: Familiarize yourself with Qiddiya's vision, masterplan, key attractions, and their commitment to "People First Principles." Understand the scale and ambition of the project.

• Practice Your Narrative: Prepare to articulate your experience and approach to design management, consultant leadership, and stakeholder collaboration clearly and concisely, using specific examples from your career.

⚠️ 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.