Senior Design Manager (Security) MAS361)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager (Security)

Company: Qiddiya Investment Company

Location: Riyadh, Riyadh Province, Saudi Arabia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Security Design & Operations Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-10

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic development and execution of comprehensive security design across Qiddiya's expansive project portfolio.

• Integrate innovative security systems and technologies, ensuring alignment with Qiddiya's vision and stringent regulatory frameworks.

• Drive cross-functional collaboration between design, engineering, and project management teams to embed security best practices throughout the GTM lifecycle.

• Conduct rigorous risk assessments and implement effective mitigation strategies to safeguard assets and personnel.

• Uphold and enforce adherence to both local and international security standards, codes, and regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for the overall security posture of Qiddiya, a major investment company. The "MAS361" designation may refer to an internal project code or team, suggesting a significant and potentially long-term project lifecycle. The emphasis on "large-scale projects" and "diverse portfolio" indicates a need for a candidate experienced in managing complex, multi-faceted security design initiatives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the entire security design lifecycle for Qiddiya’s diverse projects, from conceptualization to implementation.

• Develop, review, and approve detailed security design plans, encompassing access control, CCTV surveillance, intrusion detection systems, alarm systems, and emergent threat response technologies.

• Act as the primary security design liaison, coordinating effectively with architects, engineers, urban planners, and external consultants to ensure seamless integration of security features.

• Perform thorough site-specific and project-level risk assessments, identifying vulnerabilities and proposing practical, cost-effective security mitigation strategies.

• Ensure all security designs strictly comply with Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior regulations, international security standards (e.g., ISO 27001 where applicable to physical security), and Qiddiya’s internal security policies.

• Oversee and manage security design schedules, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to project milestones, while also managing design budgets and controlling expenditures.

• Maintain rigorous quality standards for all security design deliverables, conducting design reviews and quality assurance checks.

• Proactively research and stay abreast of cutting-edge security technologies, threat landscapes, and industry best practices to inform design decisions and drive innovation.

• Facilitate clear and consistent communication channels between internal Qiddiya teams, external design consultants, and technology vendors, ensuring alignment and resolving design conflicts.

• Prepare and present security design proposals, risk analyses, and performance reports to senior management and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a senior-level role requiring strategic thinking, extensive technical expertise in physical security systems, and strong project management capabilities. The mention of "emerging threat response technologies" suggests a forward-looking approach to security design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Security Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or a closely related technical discipline.

• Advanced degrees (Master's or Ph.D.) in a relevant field are highly desirable.

• Professional certifications such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), or equivalent are strongly preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in security design management, with a significant focus on large-scale, complex developments, infrastructure, or master-planned communities.

• Proven track record of successfully managing security design for multiple concurrent projects with substantial budgets. Required Skills:

• Security Systems Design: Deep understanding and practical experience in designing integrated security systems including access control, CCTV, intrusion detection, alarm systems, and command and control centers.

• Risk Assessment & Mitigation: Expertise in conducting comprehensive security risk assessments, threat analyses, and developing effective mitigation plans.

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage project timelines, budgets, resources, and quality standards for security design initiatives.

• Regulatory Compliance: In-depth knowledge of Saudi Arabian security regulations and international security standards relevant to large-scale developments.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with architects, engineers, government officials, and internal stakeholders.

• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with security design and modeling software (e.g., AutoCAD, BIM for security integration), and knowledge of IT/OT integration for security systems.

• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor design teams and consultants.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with smart city security concepts and integrated operational platforms.

• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles as they relate to physical security systems.

• Fluency in Arabic language, in addition to English.

• Experience with Qiddiya's specific project types or within similar large-scale entertainment, hospitality, or mixed-use developments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific certifications like CPP or PSP, coupled with 8-10 years of experience in large-scale projects, positions this role for a seasoned security professional. The preference for Arabic language skills suggests potential for direct interaction with local authorities and stakeholders.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Integrated Security Design Case Studies: Demonstrate experience in designing comprehensive security solutions for complex projects, showcasing system integration (access control, CCTV, IDS, etc.) and their interdependencies.

• Risk Assessment Methodologies: Provide examples of risk assessment frameworks used, including threat modeling, vulnerability analysis, and the resulting mitigation strategies implemented.

• Project Lifecycle Management: Showcase projects where you managed security design from inception through to construction handover, highlighting key decision points and challenges overcome.

• Budget & Schedule Management: Present evidence of successful management of security design budgets and adherence to project schedules on large-scale initiatives.

• Regulatory Compliance Documentation: Examples of how security designs met specific local and international regulatory requirements.

Process Documentation:

• Security Design Standards & Guidelines: Candidates may be asked to present or discuss their methodology for developing and implementing internal security design standards and guidelines.

• Risk Management Frameworks: Demonstrate understanding of structured risk management processes and how they are applied within the design phase.

• Technology Evaluation & Integration: Showcase a process for evaluating new security technologies and integrating them into existing or new system architectures.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Outline a systematic approach to ensuring the quality and accuracy of security design deliverables throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is essential for this role. Candidates should be prepared to detail their involvement in the entire security design process, demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also project management acumen and strategic risk mitigation capabilities. The emphasis on "large-scale projects" means case studies should reflect complexity and significant scope.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the senior level, extensive experience required, and location in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a competitive salary range can be estimated. For a Senior Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in a specialized field like security design management for mega-projects, the typical salary in Riyadh could range from SAR 350,000 to SAR 600,000 annually, potentially higher for exceptional candidates with highly sought-after expertise. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering and project management roles in major development projects in the GCC region, considering the cost of living and demand for specialized skills.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Compensation And Benefits Package: This typically includes:

  • Competitive base salary.

  • Performance-based bonuses.

  • Housing allowance or company-provided accommodation.

  • Transportation allowance.

  • Comprehensive health insurance for employee and dependents.

  • Annual leave and public holidays.

  • Relocation assistance for international candidates.

  • Potential for end-of-service benefits.

  • Professional development opportunities, including training and certifications. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, often distributed over 5 days (e.g., Sunday to Thursday). However, for large-scale project management roles, especially during critical phases, extended hours or weekend work may be required. Flexibility and a commitment to project deadlines are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from market research for senior-level project management and specialized engineering roles in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, considering the scale and prestige of Qiddiya Investment Company. The benefits package is assumed to be robust, typical for major employers in the region managing international talent.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Entertainment, Hospitality, Tourism, and Real Estate Development. Qiddiya Investment Company is developing a massive entertainment, sports, and arts destination near Riyadh, aiming to be a global hub for these sectors.

Company Size: Qiddiya Investment Company is a large organization, likely employing thousands of individuals across various project development, operational, and support functions, including a significant number of international professionals.

Founded: Qiddiya Investment Company was established in 2017. It is a Public Investment Fund (PIF) company, underscoring its strategic importance to Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager (Security) will likely be part of a larger Design or Project Management department, reporting to a Director of Design or Head of Security Design.

• This role will involve close collaboration with architectural design teams, engineering disciplines (MEP, structural, IT/OT), project construction managers, and the client's security operations and intelligence teams.

• The team structure emphasizes a matrixed approach, where design managers work closely with project directors and functional leads to achieve project objectives. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Decisions will be informed by risk assessments, threat intelligence, and performance metrics from existing systems.

• Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) Principles: While not explicitly stated, large-scale developments often adopt IPD or similar collaborative methodologies to ensure seamless integration of design, construction, and operations.

• Agile Project Management: Project phases may utilize agile principles for iterative development and rapid deployment of solutions, particularly in technology integration.

• Best Practice Integration: A strong emphasis on adopting and adapting global best practices in security design and project management.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Qiddiya is a flagship project for Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, indicating a high-stakes, fast-paced, and innovation-driven environment. The company culture is likely to be ambitious, results-oriented, and focused on delivering world-class facilities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position represents a senior-level management role within the security design and operations domain. It signifies a transition from technical execution to strategic leadership, encompassing team management, high-level stakeholder engagement, and accountability for critical project outcomes.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager (Security) will report to a Director-level executive within the Design or Project Management division, or potentially directly to the Head of Security for Qiddiya. They will manage a team of security designers, consultants, and potentially oversee external security design firms.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and profound impact on the operational viability and success of Qiddiya. Robust security design is fundamental to ensuring the safety of visitors and staff, protecting assets, maintaining operational continuity, and upholding the company's reputation as a secure and world-class destination. Effective security design directly contributes to the overall guest experience and operational efficiency by minimizing disruptions and security-related incidents.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into a Director of Security Design, VP of Security, or Head of Integrated Security Operations roles within Qiddiya.

• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunity to deepen expertise in emerging security technologies, master planning for mega-projects, or specific security domains (e.g., cybersecurity integration, critical infrastructure protection).

• Strategic Influence: Play a key role in shaping the long-term security strategy for a groundbreaking global destination, influencing major investment decisions and operational policies.

• Professional Development: Access to advanced training, conferences, and certifications to enhance skills in leadership, strategic planning, and cutting-edge security technologies.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior security professionals and contribute to building Qiddiya's internal security design capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for career advancement within a high-profile organization. The impact of the role extends beyond design to influencing the operational safety and success of a major global entertainment destination.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This implies working within Qiddiya's project offices or corporate headquarters. The environment is likely to be dynamic, collaborative, and focused on project delivery.

Office Location(s): The primary work location will be in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, within the Qiddiya development area or associated corporate offices.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: Expect a modern office setup designed to foster collaboration among diverse teams, including architects, engineers, project managers, and client representatives.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to advanced design software, communication tools, and potentially secure project collaboration platforms.

• High-Pace Atmosphere: The environment will be demanding, driven by aggressive project timelines and the scale of the Qiddiya development. Expect regular meetings, design reviews, and site visits.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: Frequent opportunities to interact with various internal departments and external consultants, fostering a broad understanding of the project.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, typically Sunday to Thursday.

• However, due to the nature of large-scale project management and security responsibilities, flexibility is essential. Extended hours, weekend work, and on-call availability may be required during critical project phases or in response to security incidents.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Riyadh underscores the hands-on nature of the role, necessitating direct engagement with project teams and stakeholders. The dynamic work environment demands adaptability and a proactive approach.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications, focusing on alignment with minimum qualifications and experience.

2. Technical Interview: A panel interview with senior security and design leaders to assess technical expertise in security systems design, risk assessment, and project management. This may include scenario-based questions.

3. Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where candidates present a selection of their most relevant work from their portfolio, detailing their role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes for large-scale security design projects.

4. Stakeholder/Cross-Functional Interview: An interview with representatives from key departments (e.g., Project Management, Operations, Architecture) to evaluate collaboration skills, communication style, and cultural fit.

5. Final Interview: A discussion with a senior executive (e.g., Director of Design, VP of Security) to assess strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall alignment with Qiddiya's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Scale and Complexity: Focus on projects that demonstrate experience with mega-developments, integrated systems, and significant budgets.

• Quantify Impact: Use metrics and data wherever possible to showcase the effectiveness of your security designs (e.g., reduction in incidents, ROI on security investments, efficiency gains).

• Detail Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and decision-making authority within each project.

• Showcase Process: Explain your approach to risk assessment, design development, stakeholder engagement, and quality assurance.

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

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for hypothetical situations related to security design, risk management, or stakeholder conflicts.

• Technical Deep Dive: Brush up on specific security technologies (access control, CCTV, IDS) and relevant standards.

• Project Management Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would manage budgets, timelines, and resources for complex security design projects.

• Strategic Thinking: Prepare to articulate your vision for security in a large-scale entertainment destination and how you would approach integrating new technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to thoroughly assess technical acumen, practical experience, leadership potential, and cultural fit. A strong, well-prepared portfolio presentation is crucial for demonstrating capabilities in managing complex security design initiatives.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD & BIM Software: AutoCAD, Revit (for security system integration within architectural models), Navisworks (for clash detection and coordination).

• Security Design & Planning Tools: Specialized software for access control system design, CCTV layout planning, and intrusion detection system configuration.

• Project Management Software: Microsoft Project, Oracle Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Risk Assessment Tools: Software or frameworks for quantitative and qualitative risk analysis.

• Reporting Tools: Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, or specialized reporting dashboards for presenting security design proposals, risk assessments, and project status updates.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how security systems integrate with broader building management systems (BMS) or operational platforms may be beneficial.

• Familiarity with systems that automate security alerts, reporting, or access management processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in CAD/BIM and project management software is essential. Experience with specialized security design tools and a general understanding of how security systems interface with broader operational technology (OT) and IT infrastructure are highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: An unwavering commitment to the safety and security of all individuals and assets within Qiddiya.

• Integrity & Trust: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all design decisions and interactions.

• Innovation & Excellence: Driving forward-thinking security solutions and striving for world-class quality in all aspects of design and implementation.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a cooperative environment where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated to achieve shared goals.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities and delivering on commitments.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly collaborative environment where security design is not siloed but is an integral part of the overall project development process.

• Proactive Communication: Open and transparent communication with all stakeholders, ensuring alignment and addressing concerns promptly.

• Constructive Feedback: A culture that encourages the exchange of feedback to continuously improve designs and processes.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A collective focus on identifying and resolving challenges efficiently and effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Qiddiya's values likely emphasize ambition, innovation, and a commitment to delivering a world-class experience, with safety and integrity being paramount in a security-focused role. The collaboration style will be essential for navigating the complexities of a mega-project.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scale and Complexity: Managing security design for a project of Qiddiya's magnitude presents unique challenges in coordination, integration, and ensuring consistent standards across vast areas.

• Evolving Threat Landscape: Staying ahead of rapidly changing security threats and ensuring designs are future-proof against emerging risks.

• Balancing Security and User Experience: Integrating robust security measures without compromising the visitor experience, accessibility, or aesthetics of the destination.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating diverse stakeholder requirements and ensuring buy-in for security design decisions.

• Regulatory Evolution: Keeping pace with evolving local and international security regulations and standards.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Cutting-Edge Technology Exposure: Opportunity to work with and implement the latest advancements in security technology.

• Mega-Project Management Skills: Gaining invaluable experience in managing security for one of the world's most ambitious development projects.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Deepening understanding of how security integrates with architecture, urban planning, operations, and technology.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone leadership and team management skills within a high-performance environment.

• Industry Conferences & Training: Access to leading industry events and specialized training to maintain expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to the scale and ambition of Qiddiya. The growth opportunities are significant, offering a chance to shape a landmark project and advance one's career in security management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive security master plan for a new city-scale development."

• "How do you balance the need for stringent security with the desire for an open and welcoming visitor experience in a recreational destination?"

• "Walk us through a complex security design project where you had to integrate multiple disparate systems. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?"

• "How do you stay current with evolving security threats and technologies, and how do you incorporate this knowledge into your design process?"

• "Describe a situation where you had to manage conflicting requirements from different stakeholders regarding security design. How did you resolve it?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Qiddiya and Saudi Vision 2030, and how does your security design philosophy align with these goals?"

• "How would you foster a collaborative security design culture within a large, multi-disciplinary project team?"

• "What are your expectations regarding the role of security in a world-class entertainment and tourism destination?"

• "How do you prioritize security investments when faced with budget constraints?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the objective, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the design solutions implemented, the technologies utilized, and the measurable outcomes.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, schematics, or conceptual renderings to illustrate your design concepts and system integrations.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your methodology for risk assessment, design development, stakeholder coordination, and quality assurance.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, provide data or metrics that demonstrate the effectiveness and ROI of your security designs.

• Tailor to Qiddiya: Connect your experience and examples to the specific context and scale of Qiddiya’s ambitious vision.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, deep technical expertise, strong project management skills, and an understanding of Qiddiya's unique context. The portfolio presentation is a critical component for showcasing practical experience.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager (Security) position:

• Submit your application through the Qiddiya Investment Company careers portal or the provided Workable link.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight experience with large-scale projects, specific security systems (access control, CCTV, IDS), risk assessment methodologies, and project management achievements. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select 3-5 key projects that best showcase your capabilities in security design management for complex, large-scale developments. Focus on demonstrating your process, problem-solving skills, and the impact of your designs.

• Research Qiddiya: Familiarize yourself with Qiddiya's vision, scale, and its significance within Saudi Vision 2030. Understand the types of facilities and the potential security considerations for a major entertainment and tourism destination.

• Practice your interview responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions, and be ready to discuss your technical expertise and strategic approach to security design.

⚠️ 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.