Senior Design Manager📣 Job Ad

About the Role

Chestertons MENA is expanding its Building Consultancy & Project Management team and is seeking a highly experienced Senior Design Manager to join its operations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This role supports the Design Director in overseeing hospitality projects from concept through to construction completion. The position requires a strong architectural background and significant experience in design management, particularly within the luxury hospitality sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Design Director in the comprehensive management and coordination of hospitality projects, from concept design through to construction completion.
• Review architectural drawings, technical packages, and shop drawings to ensure compliance with project requirements, brand standards, and technical quality.
• Coordinate architectural design elements with Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP), structural, interior design, and other specialist consultants for seamless integration.
• Participate in design review workshops, technical coordination meetings, and discussions with consultants to address challenges and drive project progress.
• Review and approve materials, finishes, mock-ups, and technical submittals to ensure they meet project specifications and quality expectations.
• Monitor design quality during the construction phase, conducting site inspections and snagging reviews to identify and rectify deviations.
• Ensure alignment and coordination between the original design intent and site execution.
• Proactively identify design clashes, technical inconsistencies, and potential constructability issues.
• Assist in the preparation of reports, detailed comment sheets, and technical review documentation.
• Maintain close coordination with contractors, consultants, operators, and suppliers throughout all project phases.

Qualifications and Requirements

• A Master's Degree in Architecture is required.
• Approximately 8 to 15 years of progressive experience in architecture or design management roles.
• Demonstrated experience working on luxury hospitality projects, including hotels, resorts, branded residences, and high-end mixed-use developments.
• A strong background gained within reputable architectural consultancy or established design firms is essential.
• Good technical understanding of architectural detailing, MEP coordination, Fire Life Safety (FLS) systems, relevant building codes, materials, and construction methodologies.
• Experience in reviewing drawings across all stages, from concept and schematic design through detailed design, Issued For Construction (IFC), and shop drawing phases.
• Strong site awareness, including practical experience with snagging and quality inspection processes.
• Excellent coordination and communication skills are paramount for effective stakeholder management.
• Previous experience within the GCC region is preferred.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit for design and documentation.
• Expertise in Bluebeam or similar PDF review tools for efficient drawing annotation and collaboration.
• Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite for reporting and administrative tasks.
• Exceptional coordination skills to manage multiple disciplines and stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of technical detailing in architecture.
• Skilled in MEP coordination to ensure integrated building systems.
• Understanding of Fire Life Safety (FLS) systems and their integration.
• Familiarity with relevant building codes and regulations.
• Knowledge of various construction materials and their applications.
• Understanding of diverse construction methodologies.
• Proficiency in snagging and quality inspection procedures.
• Experience in conducting design reviews and providing constructive feedback.
• Solid understanding of project management principles and practices.

Work Location and Type

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The role involves working on projects located in Jeddah, Makkah, and Riyadh.