Design Manager

ClientOur client is an international investment holding company and family office with a highly diversified portfolio of direct private equity investments, significant minority interests in listed companies, and real assets.Role OverviewThe Senior Design Manager will lead the design management function from concept through completion. The role is responsible for managing internationally renowned consultants, ensuring design quality, maintaining programme, protecting project objectives, controlling GFA, managing authority compliance, coordinating all disciplines and delivering ultra-luxury developments aligned with company’s vision. The role is expected to act as the Client's Design Lead and technical representative throughout the project lifecycle.Key Responsibilities Design ManagementLead all design consultants, contractors and subcontractors throughout Concept, SD, DD, IFC and Construction.Manage Architect, Interior Designer, Landscape Architect, Lighting Designer, Wayfinding Consultant, specialist consultants and engineers.Ensure coordination between all design disciplines.Monitor design progress against agreed programmes.Chair weekly design coordination meetings.Review all design submissions before Client approval.Technical LeadershipReview architectural, structural MEP solutions and all other design submissions from all third parties appointed by the client.Ensure technical compliance with project brief.Ensure constructability of proposed solutions.Coordinate BIM model reviews.Review shop drawings and material submissions during construction.Participate in mock-up reviews.Project DevelopmentProtect project vision throughout design.Maintain design quality.Ensure unit mix remains commercially viable.Monitor GFA utilization.Review efficiencies and optimization opportunities.Lead Value Engineering without compromising quality.Ensure Operator standards are incorporated.Authority CoordinationWork closely with AOR and Authority Liaison.Review authority comments.Support obtaining all statutory approvals.Ensure compliance with all related authorities.Construction PhaseReview contractor technical submissions.Review RFIs.Review material samples.Attend mock-ups.Attend site inspections.Resolve design issues.Manage consultant performance during construction.Stakeholder ManagementManage relationships with:ArchitectsInterior DesignersLandscape ConsultantsPMCCost ConsultantHotel OperatorsAuthoritiesJV PartnersInvestorsRequired Qualifications & Experience12–18 years of experience.Minimum 5 years in a client-side or developer role.Experience managing international consultants.Delivered at least:2 luxury residential towers over 40 storeys; or2 luxury hospitality projects; or2 branded residences.Experience with projects exceeding AED 1 billion is highly desirable.Bachelor’s degree in architecture.Master's Degree preferred.RIBA / AIA registration advantageous.