Site Design Manager Residential

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Site Design Manager Residential

Company: Lamda Development SA

Location: Elliniko, South Athens, Greece

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Construction & Design Management

Date Posted: August 21, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the design implementation process during the construction phase of large-scale residential developments within The Ellinikon Project.

• Serves as the primary on-site design representative, ensuring approved design intent, quality standards, and technical requirements are met.

• Manages and coordinates design-related activities between the Development Team, Design Consultants, Project Managers, and Main Contractors.

• Drives the timely resolution of design-related issues and technical queries throughout the construction lifecycle, utilizing a structured reporting methodology.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical link between the design vision and the physical execution of residential projects. It requires a blend of technical architectural/engineering expertise, strong project management acumen, and excellent stakeholder management skills, particularly within the context of large-scale urban regeneration. The emphasis on "residential developments" and "The Ellinikon Project" suggests a focus on high-end, complex, and potentially master-planned communities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Construction Design Management: Act as the primary design representative on site, ensuring the approved design intent, project objectives, quality standards, and technical requirements are maintained throughout project execution. Support the Development Team in monitoring design compliance, identifying project risks, and ensuring timely resolution of design-related matters.

• Design Coordination & Stakeholder Management: Coordinate and maintain effective communication between the Development Team, Design Consultants, Project Managers, Main Contractors, Specialist Contractors, and other project stakeholders. Facilitate design coordination meetings, technical workshops, and site reviews to ensure alignment on project objectives, design requirements, programme constraints, and quality expectations.

• Construction Documentation Review: Review construction drawings, shop drawings, material submissions, method statements, and technical submittals for compliance with approved designs, project specifications, and development requirements. Coordinate consultant reviews to ensure all design information remains coordinated, complete, and suitable for construction.

• RFI & Technical Query Management: Manage Requests for Information (RFIs) and technical queries raised by contractors and subcontractors. Coordinate timely responses with architects, engineers, and specialist consultants, ensuring alignment with project objectives, approved design intent, and contractual requirements. Maintain clear records and tracking of design-related issues and resolutions.

• Site Monitoring & Quality Assurance: Conduct regular site inspections and reviews of construction progress from a design perspective. Verify compliance with approved drawings, specifications, mock-ups, samples, and quality benchmarks. Identify deviations, non-conformities, and technical issues, and coordinate corrective actions with relevant stakeholders.

• Design Variation Management: Review and evaluate proposed design changes, value engineering proposals, contractor suggestions, and site-driven modifications. Assess their impact on cost, programme, quality, functionality, and operational requirements, and provide recommendations to the Development Team for approval.

• Project Delivery & Handover: Support the project delivery process by coordinating design-related close-out activities, reviewing as-built documentation, participating in snagging and inspections, and ensuring design requirements are fully addressed prior to handover.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a proactive, hands-on approach to design management during construction. The emphasis on RFI management, site monitoring, and variation control indicates a need for a detail-oriented individual who can navigate complex site challenges and ensure design integrity against potential pressures from contractors or changing site conditions. The "residential" focus implies an understanding of dwelling unit design, common area functionality, and potentially landscape integration.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Engineering.

• Master's degree (MSc) in a relevant field is highly preferred. Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in architecture, design management, construction administration, and project delivery.

• Significant experience in large-scale residential and hospitality projects, with substantial exposure to construction-phase activities.

• Proven experience working on construction sites and coordinating multidisciplinary consultant teams, contractors, and specialist subcontractors.

• Demonstrated experience reviewing construction drawings, shop drawings, technical submittals, RFIs, mock-ups, and material submissions.

• Strong understanding of construction methodologies, sequencing, and quality assurance processes.

• Experience working with international consultants, contractors, and major clients on complex developments.

• Strong knowledge of Greek Building Regulations, Eurocodes, and international standards and best practices.

• Familiarity with BIM-enabled project delivery processes and construction document management platforms. Required Skills:

• Construction Design Management: Expertise in overseeing design implementation during construction.

• Design Coordination: Ability to effectively integrate and align various design disciplines.

• Stakeholder Management: Proven track record of managing diverse project stakeholders (consultants, contractors, internal teams).

• Construction Documentation Review: Proficiency in assessing technical drawings, submittals, and specifications.

• RFI & Technical Query Management: Skill in managing and resolving information requests efficiently.

• Site Monitoring & Quality Assurance: Diligence in verifying construction against design and quality standards.

• Design Variation Management: Competence in evaluating proposed changes and their impacts.

• Project Delivery & Handover: Experience in closing out design aspects of projects.

• Technical Judgement & Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication in English.

Preferred Skills:

• BIM Proficiency: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling workflows and platforms.

• Value Engineering: Experience in identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality.

• Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and influence project teams.

• Commercial Awareness: Understanding of the financial and programmatic implications of design decisions.

• Greek Building Regulations & Eurocodes: In-depth knowledge of local and international construction standards.

• Hospitality Project Experience: While residential is primary, hospitality experience is a plus.

• MSc Degree: Advanced academic qualification in a relevant engineering or architectural discipline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10+ years of experience, coupled with specific project types (large-scale residential/hospitality) and international exposure, positions this as a senior-level role. The emphasis on Greek regulations and Eurocodes is crucial for local compliance. Familiarity with BIM and construction document management platforms points towards a need for technologically adept candidates. The soft skills section emphasizes leadership, problem-solving, and communication as equally important as technical expertise.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of Design Management in Construction: Demonstrations of how you managed the design implementation process on previous large-scale residential or hospitality projects from commencement through to handover.

• Documentation of Design Coordination Efforts: Examples of coordination meetings, technical workshops, and site reviews you facilitated, showcasing how you ensured alignment among diverse project teams.

• Examples of Construction Document Reviews: Submissions demonstrating your ability to review construction drawings, shop drawings, material submissions, and technical submittals for compliance and accuracy.

• RFI & Technical Query Resolution Examples: Case studies detailing how you managed RFIs and technical queries, including the process for obtaining timely and accurate responses.

• Site Monitoring & Quality Assurance Reports: Samples of site inspection reports or quality assurance documentation that highlight your attention to detail and ability to identify and rectify deviations.

• Design Variation Impact Assessments: Examples of how you evaluated proposed design changes, including assessments of their impact on cost, programme, and quality.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Ability to document and optimize workflows for design coordination, RFI management, and variation control in a construction context.

• Implementation and Automation Methods: Experience in implementing and utilizing systems (e.g., construction document management platforms, BIM tools) to streamline design processes.

• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Skills in tracking and reporting on key design-related metrics during construction, such as RFI turnaround times, number of design queries, and variation impacts.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Site Design Manager, the portfolio should heavily emphasize practical application of design management principles during the construction phase. Candidates should be prepared to showcase tangible evidence of their ability to manage complex documentation, resolve on-site technical challenges, and ensure design integrity. The focus on process documentation suggests a desire for candidates who can not only execute but also improve existing operational workflows within the design and construction lifecycle.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the 10+ years of experience requirement, the senior nature of the role, and the location in Greece (Elliniko, South Athens), a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in major European urban regeneration projects, the estimated annual gross salary range would be €60,000 - €90,000. This range accounts for the significant experience, specialized knowledge of Greek regulations, and the high-profile nature of The Ellinikon Project. Benefits:

• Competitive compensation package according to professional experience.

• Additional benefits (specifics to be confirmed by the employer, but typically include health insurance, potential performance bonuses, and professional development opportunities).

• Opportunity to work on one of Europe's largest urban regeneration projects.

• Passionate working environment. Working Hours:

• The role is likely to involve standard full-time hours, approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases or site-intensive periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general market data for senior construction and design management roles in Greece and Western Europe, considering the scale and complexity of The Ellinikon Project. The "additional benefits" are broad and would need direct confirmation, but often include comprehensive health coverage, paid time off, and potential for bonuses tied to project milestones or company performance. The mention of a "passionate working environment" and "challenging Companies" suggests a dynamic and demanding, yet rewarding, workplace.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate Development, Urban Regeneration, Hospitality, Construction. Lamda Development SA is a prominent Greek company undertaking the ambitious Ellinikon Project, Europe's largest urban regeneration initiative. This involves transforming a former international airport into a sustainable, mixed-use destination.

Company Size: The company likely operates at a significant scale, employing a large workforce dedicated to managing and executing this massive, multi-faceted project. The size implies structured departments and a robust corporate framework.

Founded: Lamda Development was founded in 2017, with its primary focus being the ambitious Ellinikon Project, which commenced in earnest following the acquisition of the concession rights.

Team Structure:

• The Site Design Manager will likely be part of a larger Development Team responsible for The Ellinikon Project.

• This team will include other specialized roles such as Senior Design Managers, Project Managers, Construction Managers, Architects, Engineers, and various consultants.

• The reporting structure places the Site Design Manager under the Senior Design Manager and ultimately the Development Director, indicating a clear hierarchy focused on project oversight.

• Cross-functional collaboration will be extensive, involving internal development teams, external design consultants (architects, structural engineers, MEP engineers, landscape architects), main contractors, specialist subcontractors, and potentially local authorities. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated, large-scale projects like this rely heavily on data analysis for project planning, risk assessment, and performance monitoring.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The role demands systematic planning and optimization of design-related workflows during the construction phase.

• Collaboration & Communication: Emphasis on regular reporting, coordination meetings, and clear communication channels to manage a complex web of stakeholders.

• Quality & Compliance Focus: Rigorous adherence to design intent, quality standards, and regulatory requirements is paramount.

Company Website: https://www.lamdadev.com/en/

📝 Enhancement Note: Lamda Development is undertaking a landmark project with significant national and international implications. The company culture is likely to be driven by ambition, innovation, and a commitment to executing a complex, long-term vision. The "passionate working environment" suggests a team that is deeply invested in the success of The Ellinikon Project. The scale of the project implies a need for robust project management methodologies and strong internal controls.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a senior management level within the design and construction operations of a major development project. It requires extensive experience and the ability to independently manage complex design implementation on site.

Reporting Structure: The Site Design Manager reports to the Senior Design Manager and the Development Director. This structure indicates a clear line of responsibility and provides access to senior leadership for guidance and decision-making. It also implies a need to effectively communicate project status and challenges upwards.

Operations Impact: The Site Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on the successful execution of residential developments. Their ability to ensure design integrity, manage variations, and resolve technical issues directly influences project quality, adherence to budget, and timely completion. This role is crucial for translating the project's strategic vision into tangible, high-quality built environments.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Manager: Progression to managing a broader portfolio of projects or a larger team of design managers.

• Project Director/Manager: Advancement into overall project leadership roles, overseeing multiple aspects of development and construction.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas such as sustainable design, BIM implementation, or specific construction technologies within large-scale projects.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to mentor junior staff and contribute to the development of design management best practices within Lamda Development.

• Contribution to Landmark Project: The immense scale and profile of The Ellinikon Project offer unparalleled experience and a significant career milestone.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within a project of immense scale and significance. The experience gained will be highly valuable and transferable, particularly in large-scale urban development and complex construction projects. The reporting structure to senior leadership provides high visibility and opportunities for professional development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "site-based," indicating a primary work environment on the construction site of The Ellinikon Project. This will involve a combination of site offices and potentially client/consultant offices involved in the project.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is The Ellinikon Project site in Elliniko, South Athens, Greece. This is a vast development area.

Workspace Context:

• Site-Based Operations: The candidate must be comfortable working in an active construction environment, which can be dynamic and demanding.

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close daily interaction with site teams, project managers, contractors, and on-site representatives of design consultants.

• Technology Integration: Access to and utilization of construction document management platforms, BIM software, and communication tools will be essential for day-to-day operations.

• Field Mobility: Expect regular site walks, inspections, and meetings across different areas of the expansive project site.

Work Schedule: Full-time, likely Monday to Friday, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical construction phases or to meet project deadlines. The nature of construction projects often demands flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is not a typical office-based role. The emphasis on "site-based" means the candidate must be prepared for the realities of a construction environment, including potential exposure to weather, noise, and the need for safety protocols. This hands-on approach is crucial for effective design management during construction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio for alignment with experience and qualifications.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion of experience in design management, construction administration, RFI handling, documentation review, and site coordination. May involve technical questions related to architectural/engineering principles and construction methodologies.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio piece or a hypothetical scenario demonstrating their approach to a specific design management challenge on a construction site (e.g., resolving a complex RFI, managing a significant design variation).

• Stakeholder/Team Interview: Meeting with Senior Design Manager, Development Director, and potentially other key team members to assess cultural fit, leadership style, and collaborative abilities.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and overall fit within the company's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Showcase projects where your design management efforts directly led to improved outcomes (e.g., reduced delays, enhanced quality, cost savings through effective variation management).

• Documented Processes: Include examples of your documentation review processes, RFI tracking systems, and site inspection reports.

• Visual Aids: Use drawings, photos, and diagrams to illustrate complex issues and your solutions.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and metrics to demonstrate the scale of projects and the impact of your work (e.g., "Managed RFIs for a €50M residential block," "Reduced design-related site queries by 15% through improved coordination").

• Tailor to Residential: Highlight experience specifically with residential projects, demonstrating an understanding of their unique design considerations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions asking how you would handle specific on-site design issues, such as conflicting information between drawings, unexpected site conditions, or contractor-proposed changes.

• Process Walkthroughs: Practice explaining your typical workflow for reviewing shop drawings, managing RFIs, or conducting site inspections.

• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare examples of how you have effectively communicated complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders or resolved disputes between parties.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential case studies suggests that Lamda Development values tangible evidence of past performance. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their contributions in detail and articulate their problem-solving methodologies. The interview process is likely to be rigorous, assessing both technical expertise and the ability to operate effectively in a high-stakes, fast-paced project environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Construction Document Management Systems (CDMS): Platforms like Procore, Aconex, or similar for managing all project documentation, drawings, submittals, and RFIs.

• Building Information Modeling (BIM) Software: Familiarity with Navisworks, Revit, or other BIM platforms for design review, clash detection, and visualization.

• Project Management Software: Tools such as MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for scheduling and progress tracking, though the focus here is on design integration.

• Standard Office Suite: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) for general communication, reporting, and data analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software (Excel): For data analysis, tracking RFI logs, variation logs, and generating reports.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with or ability to contribute to project dashboards that visualize design progress, issue resolution status, and compliance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data interfaces with broader project management and potentially client relationship systems might be beneficial. Automation tools are likely used for document workflows within CDMS.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with Construction Document Management Systems (CDMS) and familiarity with BIM software are critical. The ability to extract data from these systems for reporting and analysis will be key. While direct CRM experience isn't listed, understanding how design data feeds into broader project management and client reporting systems is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality residential developments that meet or exceed design intent and client expectations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively across diverse teams, including internal departments, external consultants, and contractors.

• Innovation & Vision: Driving forward Europe's largest urban regeneration project requires a forward-thinking approach and a willingness to embrace new methods and technologies.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards and professional conduct in all dealings.

• Efficiency & Results-Orientation: A focus on achieving project objectives, managing timelines, and optimizing processes for successful outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Engaged: Expect a collaborative style that involves active participation in site meetings, design reviews, and problem-solving sessions.

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with project managers, construction teams, and design consultants to ensure a unified approach.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: An environment where feedback on design issues and processes is encouraged to drive continuous improvement.

• Shared Ownership: A sense of collective responsibility for the success of The Ellinikon Project, fostering a spirit of shared ownership among team members.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is likely to be high-performance, driven by the ambition of The Ellinikon Project. Team members are expected to be dedicated, collaborative, and possess a strong sense of ownership. The emphasis on "passionate working environment" suggests a team that is deeply committed to the project's success and its transformative impact.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scale and Complexity: Managing design implementation across a vast, multi-phase urban regeneration project presents significant logistical and coordination challenges.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring all parties (developers, consultants, contractors) maintain alignment with the approved design intent amidst competing priorities and potential scope creep.

• Site Conditions: Navigating unexpected site conditions, ground issues, or existing infrastructure that may impact design implementation.

• Maintaining Design Integrity: Protecting the approved design intent against value engineering proposals or contractor shortcuts that could compromise quality or functionality.

• Pace of Construction: Keeping pace with the demanding construction schedule while ensuring thorough design review and issue resolution.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Large-Scale Urban Regeneration: Unparalleled experience in managing complex, mixed-use developments.

• Advanced Project Management: Deepening skills in construction administration, contract management, and stakeholder negotiation within a high-stakes environment.

• BIM & Technology Adoption: Opportunities to work with cutting-edge BIM workflows and construction technology.

• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Gaining insights into various aspects of real estate development, from master planning to infrastructure and sustainability.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Learning from senior leaders within Lamda Development and potentially mentoring junior members of the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to the scale and ambition of The Ellinikon Project. Overcoming these will provide immense professional growth. The learning opportunities are exceptional, offering a chance to be part of a transformative development and acquire highly sought-after skills in complex project management and urban regeneration.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict between multiple consultants on a large construction project. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your structured approach, communication, and problem-solving).

• "How do you ensure that the approved design intent is maintained on site when faced with contractor-proposed changes or site-driven modifications?" (Highlight your understanding of variation management and your ability to assess impacts).

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing shop drawings and submittals for a complex residential building component." (Demonstrate your attention to detail, knowledge of standards, and review methodology).

• "What are the key risks you identify when managing design during the construction phase of a large residential project, and how do you mitigate them?" (Showcase your foresight and proactive risk management). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about The Ellinikon Project and Lamda Development's vision?" (Research the project's master plan, sustainability goals, and community impact).

• "How do you typically collaborate with main contractors and specialist subcontractors on site?" (Emphasize a balanced approach of assertiveness in design adherence and partnership in problem-solving).

• "How do you ensure effective communication between the design team, construction team, and development management?" (Focus on your communication strategies and reporting methods). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type (residential, hospitality) or by responsibility area (design coordination, RFI management, variation control).

• Highlight Key Projects: Select 2-3 of your most relevant and impactful projects to present in detail.

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals (drawings, photos, diagrams) to illustrate challenges and solutions.

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly state your role, the problem, your actions, and the quantifiable results (e.g., time saved, quality improved, cost impact managed).

• Process Focus: Explain the specific processes and tools you used to achieve the outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to articulate their methodologies clearly and support their claims with concrete examples. Demonstrating a thorough understanding of the construction lifecycle, an ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships, and a proactive approach to problem-solving will be crucial. Researching The Ellinikon Project extensively will demonstrate genuine interest and allow for more tailored responses.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Site Design Manager Residential position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on Workable.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 key residential or hospitality projects. Focus on your role in design management during construction, highlighting challenges in documentation review, RFI resolution, and variation management. Tailor examples to demonstrate experience with large-scale developments and adherence to quality standards.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 10+ years of experience, emphasizing project scale, responsibilities in design coordination, site management, and stakeholder engagement. Use keywords from the job description such as "Construction Design Management," "Design Coordination," "RFI Management," "BIM," and "Greek Building Regulations."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare specific examples for common interview questions related to design challenges, stakeholder conflict resolution, and quality assurance on construction sites.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Lamda Development SA and The Ellinikon Project. Understand their vision, the project's scope, and their commitment to sustainability and urban regeneration. This will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the company's mission.

⚠️ 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.