Design Project Manager

Project Design Manager, Modular Team

Arena Europe, Middle East & Asia is seeking an experienced Project Design Manager to join its Modular Team in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This full-time role involves leading and managing the complete design process for modular construction projects, from initial client briefings and concept development through to technical design, authority approvals, and project delivery. The Project Design Manager will oversee multidisciplinary design teams and ensure the successful coordination of various design packages while maintaining design quality and commercial objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from concept development to technical design, IFC documentation, authority approvals, and site execution.
• Serve as the primary design point of contact for clients, consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring collaboration across Architecture, Structure, MEP, Interior Design, and Technical teams.
• Oversee project design programmes, deliverables, submissions, and design quality standards.
• Lead design workshops, coordination meetings, and stakeholder reviews.
• Review design packages, technical submissions, material specifications, and contractor documentation.
• Ensure compliance with relevant authority requirements, building codes, regulations, and project standards.
• Support tendering, estimating, value engineering, and cost-control initiatives.
• Resolve design clashes and technical challenges throughout project development and delivery.
• Conduct site visits to support project teams and ensure design intent is maintained during construction.
• Manage and mentor Project Architects, BIM/CAD Technicians, Visualisers, and other design resources.
• Maintain project documentation, design trackers, and adherence to company design procedures.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Architecture or a related design discipline.
• 10-15 years of experience in Architecture, Design & Build, Construction, Modular Construction, Hospitality, or Commercial projects.
• Minimum of 10 years of Design Management or Lead Design experience.
• Strong experience managing multidisciplinary design teams and complex project stakeholders.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Suite, and other relevant design software.
• Strong knowledge of KSA authority approval processes, building codes, and construction practices.
• Experience in Design & Build project environments.

Required Skills

• Excellent leadership, communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance design excellence and project budgets.

Location and Eligibility

This position is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Only candidates currently residing in KSA with prior KSA experience will be considered for this role.