Design Manager (Architecture & Interior Design)

Overview

The Design Manager will spearhead the architectural and interior design efforts for expansive leisure and hospitality projects within Saudi Arabia. This position entails managing cross-disciplinary design teams, upholding design excellence, aligning with brand standards, and ensuring coordination among project stakeholders. The goal is to deliver innovative, top-quality design outcomes that adhere to timelines, budgets, and regulatory mandates.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead architectural and interior design from initial concepts through detailed design and construction phases.
• Maintain design intent consistently throughout all project stages.
• Champion innovation and creative excellence reflecting current hospitality trends and guest expectations.
• Review and approve all design outputs including concepts, drawings, specifications, and material choices.
• Manage external consultants, design agencies, and contractors to ensure punctual and quality delivery.
• Develop, track, and manage design schedules, budgets, and resource allocations.
• Identify and address design risks, facilitating efficient resolution of design challenges.
• Oversee value engineering processes while preserving design standards and brand integrity.
• Serve as central liaison connecting internal teams (development, operations, marketing) with external consultants.
• Collaborate with brand operators such as hotels, food & beverage, and entertainment partners to ensure adherence to brand guidelines.
• Present design concepts and progress reports to senior management and clients.
• Coordinate with local authorities to guarantee compliance with Saudi Arabia's codes and regulations.
• Ensure designs exceed local building codes, sustainability benchmarks, and international best practices.
• Lead BIM coordination and integration across architectural, interior, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and landscape disciplines.
• Review shop drawings, mock-ups, and material samples critically.
• Provide technical support and problem-solving assistance to construction teams regarding design matters.
• Set and enforce design quality standards throughout all phases of delivery.
• Guarantee all designs align with project brand identities, guest experience goals, and operational needs.
• Monitor construction progress to assure conformity with approved designs.
• Conduct site visits and inspections to maintain quality and design consistency.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related discipline.
• 10 to 15 years professional experience in architecture or interior design, including a minimum of 5 years in leadership capacities.
• Proven track record in executing large-scale hospitality or leisure developments like hotels, resorts, and entertainment venues.
• A strong portfolio showcasing superior design execution.
• Exceptional creativity and aesthetic judgment in design.
• Outstanding project management and organizational capabilities.
• Comprehensive knowledge of hospitality design standards and guest experience principles.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Revit/BIM, Adobe Creative Suite, and other design/documentation software.
• Excellent communication skills with a strong ability to manage diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in dynamic, multicultural environments.
• Experience working within Saudi Arabia or the broader GCC region.
• Familiarity with local regulatory frameworks and approval procedures specific to Saudi Arabia.

Compensation & Benefits

• Tax-exempt salary structure.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Comprehensive medical insurance.
• Allocated annual leave.
• Participation in company gratuity scheme.
• Eligibility for discretionary bonuses.
• Annual flight allowance.
• Housing and transportation allowances.
• Access to an Employee Wellbeing Program providing 24/7 consultations on finance, legal advice, family care, health, fitness, and nutrition.

About AtkinsRéalis

AtkinsRéalis is a global engineering and nuclear services organization dedicated to connecting people, data, and technology to transform infrastructure and energy systems worldwide. Collaborating with industry partners and a global network of consultants, designers, engineers, and project managers, we strive to engineer a sustainable future for the planet and society.