Head of Development Studio (Real Estate)📣 Job Ad

About the Role

Jobskey Search and Selection is seeking a Head of Development Studio for a Real Estate Development client based in Riyadh. This full-time position requires 5-10 years of experience and involves leading an internal design and planning studio. The role serves as a crucial link between development strategy and design execution, translating business objectives into tangible spatial concepts and development scenarios.

Role Purpose and Context

The Head of Development Studio will be responsible for transforming strategic business goals into commercially viable development concepts and compelling visual solutions. These outputs will directly support investment and development decision-making processes within the organization. The role requires a creative and commercially astute individual to guide the studio's output.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of highest and best use (HBU) studies, massing concepts, planning scenarios, and various development options.
• Translate overarching business strategies into practical, commercially sound development concepts and project briefs.
• Oversee the creation of concept studies, area schedules, test fits, and comprehensive development planning exercises.
• Collaborate effectively with Development, Investment, Leasing, Marketing, Technical, and Cost Management teams to ensure alignment of concepts with project objectives.
• Manage the internal CAD, BIM, visualization, and digital design resources.
• Lead and mentor the Development Studio specialists and design professionals within the team.
• Ensure the timely delivery of high-quality outputs that effectively support strategic decision-making.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Urban Design, Planning, or a closely related discipline.
• A minimum of 7–10 years of professional experience in architecture, urban design, mixed-use development, master planning, or concept design.
• A strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in concept development, massing studies, planning exercises, and development-driven design solutions.
• Proficiency in design, visualization, BIM, CAD, and presentation software and tools.
• Previous experience working within real estate development, master development, or large-scale mixed-use environments is essential.
• Professional qualifications such as RIBA, AIA, Saudi Council of Engineers, LEED, BIM, or related credentials are preferred.

Work Location and Type

This is a full-time position based in Riyadh. The role involves leading an internal studio, indicating a primary on-site presence within the client's development operations.