Senior Lead Designer - Dubai Studio

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Lead Designer - Dubai Studio

Company: OBMI MIAMI INC

Location: Dubai, UAE

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Architecture & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-12T03:29:00

Experience Level: 15-17 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead visionary architectural design for luxury hospitality, resorts, and mixed-use destinations.

• Drive creative concept development and compelling design narratives for international projects.

• Manage and mentor multidisciplinary design teams through all project phases, from concept to delivery.

• Serve as the primary design liaison, fostering strong relationships with clients, operators, and consultants.

• Champion design excellence, innovation, sustainability, and technical coordination within the Dubai studio.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within OBMI's Dubai studio, indicating a significant impact on project direction and team development. The focus on "storytelling through design" and "placemaking" suggests a need for candidates who can articulate a strong design philosophy and translate it into tangible, experiential environments. The mention of "Operations" in the category is a placeholder, as the role is primarily design-focused but requires strong operational oversight of the design process.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the creative vision, design direction, and conceptual development for high-profile hospitality, resort, mixed-use, and destination projects.

• Develop bold, contextually relevant architectural concepts and compelling design narratives that resonate with target audiences and brand identities.

• Champion design excellence, innovation, and OBMI's design standards across all project phases, from schematic design (SD) through construction documents (CD).

• Facilitate client workshops, lead design presentations, and confidently communicate complex design ideas and strategies to diverse stakeholders.

• Act as the primary design liaison, building and maintaining strong relationships with clients, operators, developers, and consultants to ensure alignment and project success.

• Mentor, inspire, and manage multidisciplinary design teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performing studio culture that encourages creativity and professional growth.

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers to ensure project delivery aligns with design intent, timelines, budget, and financial performance objectives.

• Oversee the translation of design concepts into coordinated, constructible drawing packages, ensuring technical feasibility and adherence to local building codes.

• Participate actively in construction administration, including site reviews, to ensure the realization of the design intent and address any on-site challenges.

• Contribute to business development efforts, including proposal storytelling, competition entries, and client relationship development to secure new projects.

• Represent OBMI at industry events, conferences, and client engagements, acting as an ambassador for the firm's design expertise and vision.

• Champion innovation in sustainability, materials research, digital design tools, and emerging design methodologies to enhance project outcomes and firm capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of high-level creative leadership and practical project execution. The expectation to "balance bold creative vision with strategic thinking, technical understanding, and commercial awareness" suggests a need for a candidate who can bridge the gap between conceptual design and business objectives. The active participation in construction administration and client relationship management highlights the operational aspects of a senior design role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 15–17 years of professional architectural experience.

• Extensive experience in leading hospitality, resort, luxury destination, and mixed-use developments.

Required Skills:

• Licensed or registered architect (AIA, RIBA, ARB, or equivalent preferred).

• Deeply creative conceptual thinker with a strong design portfolio showcasing storytelling, placemaking, and immersive environments.

• Expertise in developing bold, contextually rich architectural concepts and compelling design narratives.

• Advanced proficiency in Revit, essential for detailed design development and documentation.

• High proficiency in Rhino, AutoCAD, Enscape, and the Adobe Creative Suite for concept visualization and presentation.

• Skilled in leading engaging presentations, workshops, and high-level client discussions.

• Proven ability to mentor and inspire multidisciplinary design teams, fostering a collaborative studio culture.

• Strong understanding of technical coordination, constructability, and sustainability principles in design.

• Excellent communication, collaboration, and design advocacy skills, capable of representing OBMI internally and externally.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D visualization tools beyond the basic requirements.

• Familiarity with advanced sustainability certifications and strategies relevant to luxury hospitality.

• Understanding of project management methodologies and financial performance metrics within design projects.

• Experience working on projects in the Middle East and/or Caribbean regions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The software proficiency list is extensive and critical. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their advanced skills in Revit, Rhino, and visualization tools. The preference for regional experience and knowledge of specific certifications like AIA/RIBA/ARB highlights the need for professional accreditation and familiarity with international design standards.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 15-17 years of professional architectural experience, with a strong emphasis on luxury hospitality, resorts, and mixed-use destination projects.

• Demonstrations of conceptual design thinking, including the development of unique design narratives and placemaking strategies for various projects.

• Case studies detailing the applicant's leadership role in guiding multidisciplinary teams through the entire design process, from initial concept generation to final construction documentation.

• Examples of client presentations and workshop facilitation, illustrating the ability to communicate complex design ideas effectively and build consensus.

• Evidence of technical coordination and problem-solving skills, showcasing how designs were translated into constructible solutions, with an awareness of sustainability and materials.

Process Documentation:

• Exhibit a clear understanding of the full architectural design process, from early-stage feasibility and concept design through schematic design, design development, construction documentation, and construction administration.

• Showcase methodologies for leading design charrettes, client workshops, and cross-functional team collaborations to ensure integrated and efficient design development.

• Provide examples of how design intent is documented and communicated through drawing packages, specifications, and presentations, ensuring clarity and adherence to quality standards.

• Demonstrate experience with process optimization, identifying opportunities for innovation in design workflows, sustainability integration, and the use of digital tools to enhance efficiency and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role, serving as the primary tool for evaluating design vision, leadership capabilities, and technical proficiency. Candidates should curate their portfolios to specifically highlight their experience in luxury hospitality and destination design, demonstrating their ability to create immersive and contextually rich environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the seniority of the role (Senior Lead Designer with 15-17 years of experience) and the prime location in Dubai, UAE, a competitive salary package is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for similar senior architectural leadership roles in major international cities, the estimated annual salary range would be AED 450,000 - AED 700,000 (approximately USD 122,500 - USD 190,500). This range can vary significantly based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, portfolio strength, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage (medical, dental, vision).

• Relocation assistance package for international candidates.

• Annual leave and public holidays as per UAE labor law.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses and profit-sharing.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, conferences, and continuing education credits.

• Contribution towards professional license renewals (e.g., AIA, RIBA).

• Potential for company-sponsored housing allowance or assistance.

• Travel opportunities for site visits and client meetings.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• The role may require flexibility and occasional overtime to meet project deadlines, client demands, and attend international calls across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on senior design roles in Dubai, considering the firm's global presence and the luxury hospitality sector. Benefits are typical for international positions in the UAE, with a focus on relocation and professional development crucial for attracting top talent.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture & Design (Specializing in Luxury Hospitality, Resorts, Private Residences, and Mixed-Use Destinations). OBMI operates in a highly competitive and client-centric sector where design innovation, client satisfaction, and project delivery excellence are paramount.

Company Size: OBMI has studios in Miami, London, and Dubai, suggesting a medium-sized global practice with a focused team in each location. The Dubai studio is described as "growing," indicating a dynamic and expanding environment. This size allows for a more personalized work experience while providing the resources and reach of a global firm.

Founded: OBMI has a long-standing history, founded over 90 years ago. This legacy implies a strong foundation of expertise, established design principles, and a deep understanding of the architecture and design industry, particularly in creating "storied places."

Team Structure:

• The Dubai studio comprises a growing team of multidisciplinary designers, architects, and support staff.

• The Senior Lead Designer will report to a Studio Director or equivalent senior leadership within the Dubai office.

• This role involves leading design teams and collaborating closely with Project Managers, technical staff, and potentially business development personnel.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While emphasizing creativity, OBMI's approach is rooted in understanding land, culture, and emotion, suggesting a methodology that integrates research and context into the design process.

• Holistic & Experiential Environments: The firm focuses on creating environments that are not just aesthetically pleasing but also deeply experiential and meaningful for users.

• Collaborative Process: OBMI emphasizes global collaboration, working with clients, consultants, and internal teams to achieve shared project goals.

• Innovation & Sustainability: There's a stated commitment to innovation, including sustainability, materials research, and digital tools, indicating a forward-thinking design approach.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: OBMI's long history and focus on "storied places" suggest a culture that values craftsmanship, narrative, and deep client engagement. The "growing" Dubai studio implies opportunities for individuals to shape the studio's future and take on increased responsibility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Leadership position within the design discipline, equivalent to a Principal or Director level in a design firm. The role is responsible for setting the creative direction, leading significant projects, mentoring talent, and contributing to the firm's business development. It signifies a career stage focused on impactful design leadership and strategic contribution.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Lead Designer will likely report to a Studio Director or a Managing Principal within the Dubai office. They will, in turn, lead and mentor junior designers, design architects, and potentially collaborate closely with Project Managers who might have a separate reporting line.

Operations Impact: While primarily a design role, the "operations" aspect comes from the responsibility of managing the design process, ensuring delivery excellence, client satisfaction, and contributing to the financial health of projects and the studio. The Senior Lead Designer's strategic input influences project scope, client relationships, and ultimately, the firm's reputation and success in winning and executing high-value projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Design Leadership: Progression to Studio Director, Managing Principal, or a global leadership role within OBMI, influencing firm-wide design strategy.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific project typologies (e.g., ultra-luxury resorts, sustainable destinations) or design methodologies.

• Business Development: Taking a more prominent role in client acquisition, proposal development, and strategic partnerships.

• Mentorship & Talent Development: Building and leading larger design teams, establishing design academies, or contributing to firm-wide training initiatives.

• Global Project Involvement: Leading iconic projects in new and emerging markets, expanding the firm's international footprint.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a significant career milestone, offering a path towards executive leadership within a globally recognized design practice. The emphasis is on leveraging extensive design experience to drive strategic outcomes and mentor the next generation of designers.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in OBMI's Dubai studio, which is described as a professional, creative, and collaborative workspace. It is expected to be an on-site position, fostering in-person collaboration and interaction.

Office Location(s): Dubai, UAE. Specific location details within Dubai would need to be confirmed, but it's likely situated in a prime business district accessible to clients and talent.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: OBMI emphasizes a global, collaborative studio culture. The Dubai office will foster this, likely featuring open-plan areas, dedicated project team spaces, meeting rooms, and presentation facilities.

• Operations Tools & Technology: The studio will be equipped with industry-standard design software (Revit, Rhino, AutoCAD, Enscape, Adobe Suite), high-performance workstations, and potentially advanced visualization or VR equipment to support the design process.

• Team Interaction: The role involves constant interaction with design teams, project managers, and potentially studio leadership, encouraging a dynamic and communicative work environment. Opportunities for informal collaboration and knowledge sharing are expected.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected, with flexibility to accommodate project deadlines, client meetings across time zones, and international coordination. Occasional travel for site visits or client engagements may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is designed to support creative output and collaboration. The emphasis on digital tools and the physical space will be crucial for fostering innovation and efficient project delivery in the luxury design sector.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of CVs, portfolios, and salary expectations submitted to careers@OBMI.com. Focus will be on experience alignment, portfolio quality, and overall fit with OBMI's design ethos.

• Portfolio Presentation & Initial Interview: Candidates selected will present their portfolio, focusing on key hospitality and destination projects. This interview will assess design vision, leadership style, communication skills, and understanding of OBMI's work.

• Design Challenge/Workshop (Potential): A conceptual design exercise or workshop may be given to evaluate creative problem-solving, conceptual thinking, and ability to respond to project briefs under time constraints.

• Team & Leadership Interview: Meeting with senior leadership and potentially key team members to assess cultural fit, mentorship approach, and collaborative capabilities. This stage might involve discussions on project management and client relations.

• Final Interview: Discussion with top executives, potentially focusing on strategic contributions, business development alignment, and final offer negotiation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Impact: Select 5-7 of your most relevant and impressive projects, focusing on luxury hospitality, resorts, and mixed-use destinations. Ensure each project tells a clear story of your contribution.

• Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your role and responsibilities in each project, emphasizing leadership, team management, and client engagement. Use "I" for personal contributions and "We" for team efforts.

• Showcase Process: Include process diagrams, concept sketches, mood boards, and development stages to illustrate your design thinking and problem-solving approach.

• Emphasize Narrative & Placemaking: For each project, explain the design narrative, the cultural context, and how the design creates a unique guest experience or sense of place.

• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrate your command of Revit, Rhino, and visualization tools through high-quality renderings, drawings, and potentially interactive models.

• Conciseness & Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually compelling. Keep descriptions concise and focused on key achievements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand OBMI's Aesthetic: Thoroughly review OBMI's project portfolio to grasp their design language, recurring themes, and commitment to context and storytelling.

• Conceptual Thinking: Practice developing quick, bold design concepts based on diverse briefs, focusing on unique ideas and strong narratives.

• Problem-Solving: Be prepared to address design challenges related to site constraints, client requirements, sustainability, and constructability.

• Presentation Skills: Rehearse articulating your design process and rationale clearly and persuasively, anticipating questions about your approach and decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process heavily relies on a strong portfolio and presentation skills. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their design philosophy, leadership approach, and how they align with OBMI's established brand and values.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Advanced proficiency required for comprehensive architectural design, documentation, and BIM coordination. This is the core software for detailed design development.

• Rhino: High proficiency expected for complex form-finding, conceptual modeling, and parametric design, often used in early design stages for innovative forms.

• AutoCAD: Proficiency for 2D drafting, detailing, and collaboration with consultants who may still rely on AutoCAD.

• Enscape: Essential for real-time rendering and immersive visualization, enabling quick iteration and client walkthroughs.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator): Crucial for image editing, graphic design, portfolio creation, and presentation material development.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a traditional "operations" role, the Senior Lead Designer will need to interpret project performance data, including:
  • Project Budget Tracking: Understanding how design decisions impact project costs.
  • Schedule Adherence: Monitoring design progress against project timelines.
  • Client Feedback Analysis: Synthesizing feedback to refine designs and improve client relations.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Client Relationship Management): Understanding how client interactions are managed within the firm's CRM system (if applicable) to maintain client history and communication logs.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Monday.com, or similar platforms used for task management, team collaboration, and workflow tracking within project teams.

• BIM Coordination Platforms: Experience with platforms like Navisworks or BIM 360 for coordinating models from various disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily design-focused. Proficiency in BIM software (Revit) and advanced 3D modeling/visualization tools (Rhino, Enscape) is non-negotiable. The "analytics and reporting" section is interpreted through the lens of design project performance metrics.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A relentless pursuit of exceptional design quality, innovation, and aesthetic appeal in all projects.

• Storytelling & Placemaking: A deep commitment to creating meaningful, contextually rich environments that tell a story and foster emotional connections.

• Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork, open communication, and cross-disciplinary synergy, both internally and with external partners.

• Client Partnership: Viewing clients as trusted advisors and collaborators, working closely with them to understand their vision and deliver successful outcomes.

• Innovation & Forward-Thinking: Embracing new technologies, materials, and design methodologies to push creative boundaries and deliver sustainable, future-ready solutions.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards, delivering on commitments, and representing OBMI with professionalism and respect.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encouraging seamless collaboration between design, project management, technical specialists, and external consultants to ensure holistic project development.

• Design Review Culture: Fostering a culture where constructive feedback is welcomed and utilized to elevate design quality. Regular design reviews and critiques are expected.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and innovative techniques across project teams and studios to drive continuous improvement.

• Client-Centric Approach: Prioritizing client needs and perspectives throughout the design process, ensuring their vision is understood and integrated.

📝 Enhancement Note: OBMI's values are deeply intertwined with the practice of architecture and design, emphasizing creativity, narrative, and collaborative execution. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these principles in their approach to design and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Practical Constraints: Effectively translating ambitious design concepts into buildable, budget-conscious, and culturally appropriate solutions for diverse international markets.

• Managing High-Profile Client Expectations: Navigating the demands and expectations of discerning clients in the luxury hospitality sector, ensuring consistent satisfaction and trust.

• Leading Diverse, International Teams: Inspiring and managing multidisciplinary teams with varying backgrounds, skill sets, and potentially remote working arrangements across different OBMI studios.

• Staying Ahead of Design Trends and Technologies: Continuously integrating new materials, sustainable practices, digital tools, and evolving guest experience expectations into design solutions.

• Navigating Complex Project Deliveries: Overseeing projects from initial concept through construction administration, managing unforeseen challenges and ensuring design intent is realized on site.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Methodologies: Opportunities to explore and implement cutting-edge design techniques, parametric modeling, and generative design.

• Sustainability & Wellness Certifications: Pursuing advanced certifications (e.g., LEED AP, WELL AP) and integrating sustainable design principles deeply into projects.

• Global Project Exposure: Gaining experience on iconic projects in diverse cultural and geographical contexts, broadening professional horizons.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to internal or external training focused on strategic leadership, team management, and business development within the design industry.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in leading architectural and hospitality design events to stay abreast of industry trends and build a professional network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges inherent in leading complex, high-stakes design projects, but these are balanced by substantial opportunities for professional growth, skill enhancement, and career advancement within a prestigious global firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a design team through a complex hospitality project where significant design changes were required mid-process. How did you manage the team and stakeholders, and what was the outcome?" (Assesses leadership, problem-solving, and stakeholder management)

• "How do you approach developing a compelling design narrative for a destination project that is deeply rooted in local culture and context?" (Evaluates conceptual thinking, storytelling, and cultural sensitivity)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of OBMI, how do you see your design philosophy and leadership style contributing to our firm's mission of creating 'storied places'?" (Assesses research, alignment with company values, and self-awareness)

• "How would you foster a collaborative and innovative design culture within the Dubai studio, particularly as the team is growing?" (Probes leadership and team-building approach)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: Begin with an overview of OBMI and the role, then present 3-4 key projects, dedicating 5-7 minutes per project. Conclude with insights into your leadership philosophy and future aspirations.

• Highlight Your Leadership Journey: For each project, explicitly state your role, the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the impact of your leadership.

• Showcase Innovation: Emphasize unique design concepts, innovative use of materials, sustainable features, and how technology (Revit, Rhino, Enscape) was leveraged to achieve exceptional outcomes.

• Engage Your Audience: Speak directly to the interviewers, maintain eye contact, and be prepared for questions regarding your design choices, technical expertise, and team management strategies.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate project success (e.g., client satisfaction improvements, efficiency gains in design process, specific sustainability achievements).

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of visionary design thinking, strong leadership capabilities, technical proficiency, and a clear understanding of OBMI's brand and values. The portfolio is the primary tool for showcasing these attributes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Lead Designer position:

• Submit your CV, portfolio, and salary expectations directly to careers@OBMI.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature luxury hospitality, resort, and destination projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your design leadership, conceptual thinking, and proficiency with required software (Revit, Rhino, Enscape, Adobe Suite).

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to highlight your 15-17 years of experience, licensed architect status, and specific achievements in leading design teams and delivering high-profile projects. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on articulating your design philosophy, leadership style, and problem-solving approach. Prepare to discuss your experience with client management and team mentorship.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research OBMI's projects, design ethos, and company culture. Understand their approach to placemaking and storytelling to align your responses with their values and strategic goals.

⚠️ 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.