Senior Design Manager

Wasael Property Management is seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead projects through RIBA Design Stages 0-4 and provide design support during construction. This role is crucial for ensuring projects meet the client's time, quality, and budget objectives. The position is based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Apply now to join our dynamic team!

Looking for a Senior Design Manager at Wasael Property Management in Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi Emirate, United Arab Emirates? This role focuses on the day-to-day work of a Senior Design Manager.

Job Summary The overall responsibility and duties under this role is to initiate, manage and lead projects through the RIBA Design Stages 0 – 4 (inception to final design), and provide design support to the Project Delivery team during construction (RIBA Stage 5). The role is ult

Company Overview

Wasael Property Management is a proudly Emirati-grown company, headquartered in Abu Dhabi and established in 2012. With a strong foundation in operational excellence, we have earned a trusted reputation for delivering tailored facilities, asset, and project management solutions that respond to the dynamic needs of clients across the UAE. We are committed to delivering innovative, high-quality Facility Management solutions that support long-term success for clients and end users.

Quick Details

• Salary Range: Not Applicable
• Job Type: Full-time
• Qualifications: Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture or Design Management
• Experience: 12 – 15 Years of experience in design management (minimum 5 years’ experience in UAE)

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the entire design process from initiation to project handover to the Delivery Team.
• Guide and manage tender processes and selection of consultant teams.
• Provide day-to-day management and leadership to awarded consultants.
• Collaborate with Development, Commercial, and Project Delivery teams on design strategy.
• Review project deliverables for completeness, coordination, and compliance.
• Ensure design/project approvals are received from the Client and government authorities.
• Manage conditions and queries from the Client and government authorities.
• Prepare presentations and report on design development and progress.
• Maintain communication with the Client, government authorities, consultants, and stakeholders.
• Keep up to date on government regulations and statutory requirements.
• Schedule and attend all project meetings, ensuring action items are documented.
• Support the Project Owner and Commercial Department in financial and contractual management.
• Administer risk, change management, and Value Engineering procedures.
• Provide input into weekly/monthly/quarterly reporting.
• Assist the Project Delivery team with design support during the post-contract tender stage.
• Provide assistance in the technical review of tender submissions and contractor selection.
• Administer Pre-contract Stage close-out and handover procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned to the Senior Design Manager.
• Act as design ambassador and guardian during the post-contract stage.

Requirements

• Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture or Design Management.
• Preferably Chartered Professional member of recognized professional body (RIBA, RICS, ICE, etc.).
• PMP is an added advantage.
• 12 – 15 Years of experience in design management (minimum 5 years’ experience in UAE).
• Demonstrable experience of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Previous Client-side experience is an added advantage.
• Demonstrated extensive knowledge of architectural design, drafting, building materials, building codes, and construction techniques.
• General knowledge of best practices in building design disciplines.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in tender procurement.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Plan of Work 2020.

Benefits

• Culture that thrives on performance and growth.
• Help people level up their expertise and engagement.
• Foster meaningful partnerships through local sourcing initiatives.
• Impactful community development programs.
• Combine infrastructure strength with service expertise.
• Ensure seamless, efficient operations held to the highest standards.