Global Head of Design

About the Role

Alpha Leadership Co., a leading civil engineering and design firm, is seeking a Global Head of Design in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This full-time role involves serving as the creative authority and strategic leader for the firm's design practice. The Global Head of Design will define the firm's global architectural vision, elevate design standards across giga-projects and master plans, and drive digital design transformation, aligning with Vision 2030.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and define the firm's overarching design philosophy, enhancing its international brand profile across architectural, urban, interior, and landscape design disciplines.
• Oversee major project concepts from inception to execution, establishing rigorous peer-review standards and integrating modern vernacular with sustainable practices.
• Act as the primary design spokesperson in high-stakes pitches, design competitions, and meetings with government entities and giga-project stakeholders.
• Mentor and build a high-performing international team of design directors, architects, and planners across regional and global offices.
• Drive the adoption of AI-assisted design, parametric workflows, VR/AR, and advanced BIM tools to enhance studio output and efficiency.

Qualifications and Experience

• A degree in Architecture or Urban Design is required; RIBA, AIA, or equivalent professional registration is preferred.
• Candidates should have 20-25 years of experience in top-tier global architecture or multidisciplinary firms.
• At least 8-10 years of this experience must be in an executive design leadership role, such as Design Director, Partner, or Head of Design.
• A proven portfolio of large-scale, iconic, award-winning developments is essential, covering master planning, mixed-use, commercial, hospitality, or civic projects.
• Strong experience within Saudi Arabia or the GCC region is required, with working knowledge of Vision 2030 frameworks and local cultural contexts.

Work Type and Location

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, requiring over 10 years of professional experience. The role involves leading a global design practice within a prominent civil engineering and design firm.