Assistant Design Manager - Interior Design - Residential & Villas

We are seeking an accomplished and visionary Assistant Design Manager to lead our luxury residential and villa design division. The ideal candidate will possess a strong design portfolio, exceptional leadership capabilities, and extensive experience delivering high-end residential interiors in the UAE. This role requires a balance of creativity, technical expertise, commercial awareness, and project leadership to ensure exceptional design outcomes and client satisfaction.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign Leadership:Lead the design vision for all luxury residential and villa projects from concept through completion.Develop innovative, bespoke interior concepts tailored to each client's lifestyle, aspirations, and project requirements.Review and approve space planning, layouts, mood boards, material palettes, FF&E selections, lighting concepts, and styling proposals.Ensure consistency in design quality, functionality, aesthetics, and brand standards across all projects.Stay abreast of global luxury design trends, premium materials, finishes, furniture, and emerging technologies.Project Management:Monitor project schedules, design milestones, and resource allocation.Coordinate closely with Project Managers, Site Engineers, Procurement, Quantity Surveyors, Joinery, and MEP teams.Resolve design and technical challenges throughout the project lifecycle.Client Management:Lead client consultations, presentations, and design workshops.Build trusted relationships with high-net-worth clients, developers, and consultants.Understand client aspirations and translate them into sophisticated, practical, and commercially viable design solutions.Manage client expectations and maintain a high level of service throughout the design and execution process.Technical Oversight:Review and approve design documentation, detailed drawings, specifications, BOQs, and shop drawings.Ensure designs are technically feasible, compliant with UAE regulations, and aligned with construction methodologies.Coordinate with architects, structural, MEP, lighting, landscape, and specialist consultants.Ensure smooth coordination between design intent and site execution.Team Leadership:Lead, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary team of interior designers, technical designers, and visualizers.Conduct performance reviews, coaching, and professional development initiatives.Promote collaboration, creativity, accountability, and continuous improvement within the design team.Support recruitment and succession planning.Business Development:Support business development by participating in client pitches and proposal presentations.Collaborate with the sales team during pre-contract discussions.Contribute to strategic planning, service enhancement, and company growth initiatives.Build relationships with premium suppliers, furniture brands, and material manufacturers.

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Architecture, or a related discipline.Master's Degree is an advantage.Professional memberships or certifications are desirable.Experience:7-8years of interior design experience, with at least 4-5 years in a senior leadership role.Extensive experience delivering luxury residential interiors and villas within the UAE.Proven track record of managing projects from concept design through site completion.Strong understanding of local authority requirements, consultant coordination, and luxury fit-out execution.Experience working with high-net-worth clients and custom-designed residences.Core CompetenciesLuxury design expertiseCreative directionClient relationship managementLeadership and team developmentStrategic planningBudget managementPresentation and communication skillsAttention to detail and quality assurance