Design Manager - Master planning

The Design Manager will lead and coordinate the delivery of large-scale master planning, urban design, and mixed-use development projects across the UAE and international markets. The role requires a strong design background, strategic thinking, and proven leadership skills to guide multidisciplinary teams through all stages of project development. The Design Manager will be responsible for ensuring design excellence, technical quality, project efficiency, and successful client engagement while aligning projects with commercial objectives and regulatory requirements.

Roles &

Responsibilities:
Manage design teams throughout vision/pre-concept master planning stages, as well as CMP/DMP/FMP stages of the project.
Ensure design solutions are innovative, commercially viable, and aligned with project objectives.
Maintain high standards of design quality and technical precision across all project deliverables.
Develop and manage project programmes, deliverables, and resource allocations.
Coordinate multidisciplinary teams including master planning, architecture, landscape, infrastructure, transport, environmental, and engineering consultants.
Monitor project performance, schedules, and budgets.
Identify project risks and implement mitigation strategies.
Act as a primary point of contact for clients on design-related and contract-related matters.
Lead workshops, presentations, and design review sessions.
Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, developers, government entities, and key stakeholders.
Present master planning recommendations with confidence and clarity.
Ensure compliance with local planning regulations, development controls, and authority requirements.
Review and approve project deliverables prior to submission.
Guide project teams in addressing technical and planning challenges.
Support the preparation of development briefs, design guidelines, and planning reports.
Support proposal preparation, fee estimates, and project pursuits.
Contribute to business development initiatives and client acquisition efforts.
Identify opportunities for project growth and repeat business.
Participate in strategic planning for the Master planning Department.
Foster collaboration and knowledge sharing across disciplines.
Support recruitment, performance reviews, and professional development initiatives.

Experience & Qualification:
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Urban Design, Architecture, Urban Planning, or a related discipline.
8–12+ years of relevant experience in master planning and urban design.
Proven experience leading large-scale mixed-use, residential, hospitality, commercial, and destination development projects.
UAE and GCC project experience is highly preferred.
Strong understanding of master planning methodologies, automation processes and urban design principles.
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD, GIS, and presentation software.
Knowledge of planning regulations, authority approval processes, and development frameworks.
Familiarity with sustainability, smart city principles, and place-making strategies.

The Individual:
Strong design thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent communication and presentation abilities (verbal, written, and graphical).
Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Collaborative mindset with the ability to lead and mentor junior staff.
Detail-oriented with strong organizational and coordination skills.

Please visit the Keka careers link provided to apply. We appreciate all applications. However, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage of the recruitment process.