Design Manager (Building Projects)

Description

Zutari: Co-creating an engineered impact.

Zutari is a well-established, management-owned engineering firm with almost 90 years’ experience. As human-centred engineering consultants and advisors, we are trusted by our clients, business partners, communities, and other stakeholders across Africa.

We co-create engineering solutions that have a positive impact and improve people’s lives. Zutari values inclusion and recognises the importance of a diverse, talented workforce, believing that people need other people to succeed.

Zutari in the United Arab Emirates

Zutari has been operating in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since 2000, opening our Dubai office in 2002 and our Abu Dhabi office in 2007.

Zutari also has offices in Doha and Riyad, and our involvement in the Middle East and North Africa extends to the Gulf states of Oman and Bahrain, Jordan, Algeria, Egypt, Libya, and Morocco.

We have established excellent relationships with key clients, working closely with primary and secondary infrastructure and property developers and government authorities to foster infrastructure excellence throughout the region.

With our ability to offer lead consultancy and architect of record (AoR) services through our unlimited licenses in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, we offer bespoke solutions that truly benefit our clients, the environment, and communities that we work in.

Over two decades of involvement in the Middle East have cemented Zutari’s reputation in the market.

What kind of talent do we pursue?

We employ people with the right attitude and a positive mindset, who are motivated by doing the right thing, getting things done and share a sense of urgency. People who have an impact in our teams and broader community. People who think differently and connect with those around them to co-create new opportunities and leave a meaningful legacy

Job Overview:

The Design Manager for Projects is responsible for leading and coordinating all design-related aspects of a project. This role ensures that designs are feasible, meet project specifications, align with client expectations, and adhere to regulatory standards. The Design Manager works closely with architects, engineers, construction teams, and clients to oversee the entire design process from initial concept to completion, ensuring smooth integration of design with project execution.

Ideal Candidate:

• Either an Engineering or Architectural Professional who has worked in the Design of Buildings.
• Worked in Design of a specific discipline (MEPF, Structural, Architectural) for a minimum of 5 years who is looking at expanding their knowledge by working closely with all disciplines to manage the design life-cycle of a project.
• Has played a key role in the delivery of Projects, having communicated with Clients, Stakeholders and Design Team, as well as being solutions driven.
• Strong communication skills.
• Strong understanding of the Design Process and Stages.
• Strong understanding of the Codes and Standards of the UAE and KSA.
  
  
  

Key Responsibilities:

• Project Design Leadership:
• Lead and manage the design process for building projects from concept to completion.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and external consultants to create functional and cost-effective designs.
• Ensure design aligns with client vision, budget constraints, and construction requirements.
  
• Team Coordination:
• Coordinate the work of the design team, including architects, engineers, and other technical professionals.
• Act as the primary point of contact between design teams, clients, and construction management.
• Manage cross-disciplinary coordination to ensure all aspects of design work integrate seamlessly.
  
• Client & Stakeholder Communication:
• Work closely with clients to understand their vision and translate it into practical design solutions.
• Present design proposals, modifications, and updates to clients and key stakeholders.
• Ensure that client expectations are met throughout the design and construction phases.
  
• Compliance & Standards:
• Ensure all design work complies with relevant building regulations, codes, and health and safety standards.
• Keep up to date with industry trends, technologies, and regulatory changes.
• Ensure that environmental, sustainability, and energy efficiency standards are incorporated into designs.
  
• Design Documentation & Reviews:
• Oversee the preparation of design drawings, specifications, and other project documents.
• Conduct design reviews and value engineering exercises to ensure cost-efficiency and design quality.
• Ensure timely delivery of design documents to meet project milestones.
  
• Budget Management:
• Work closely with the project team to manage the design budget.
• Ensure design decisions align with the financial constraints of the project.
• Oversee the cost evaluation of design changes and variations.
  
• Problem-Solving & Risk Management:
• Identify and address design-related risks and challenges throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide solutions to design issues that arise during construction to ensure minimal disruption.
• Facilitate design-related problem-solving and decision-making processes.
  
• Coordination with Construction Teams:
• Collaborate with construction teams to ensure design integrity during the building phase.
• Oversee the resolution of any design discrepancies identified during construction.
• Ensure that changes during construction are documented and approved appropriately.
  
• Project Delivery:
• Ensure that the project is delivered on time, within scope, and to the expected quality standards.
• Maintain a clear focus on meeting deadlines and achieving key project milestones.
  
  
  

Qualifications & Skills:

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s degree in architecture, civil engineering, construction management, or related fields. A Master’s degree is a plus.
• Experience: Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in Design, Design management, Project management, or related roles, in Design.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in BIM software (e.g., Navisworks), Project management tools ( Microsoft Projects), and knowledge of Building regulations ( KSA/UAE). The candidate is not expected to know all the details of the Regulations, however is expected to be able to navigate
• Project Management: Strong organizational, time management, and leadership skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks under tight deadlines.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and resolve design-related issues during the project lifecycle.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to present design concepts to stakeholders and collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Attention to Detail: A strong focus on detail to ensure high-quality designs that meet technical and regulatory requirements.
  
  
  

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Timely completion of design deliverables.
• Client satisfaction with design outcomes.
• Design cost management and alignment with the project budget.
• Minimal design-related rework or issues during the construction phase.
• Compliance with regulations and standards.
  
  
  

Work Environment: This role typically involves working in an office setting, with frequent Client visits to assess project progress, coordinate with Stakeholder, and resolve design-related issues.

This position is crucial for ensuring that the design vision is carried out effectively throughout the construction process, aligning technical, regulatory, and client needs.

We believe that a diverse work force is key to our business success. We seek the best people for our jobs based on their skills, qualifications, and experience. We embrace the principle of equal opportunity in employment, and we work towards eliminating all forms of unlawful discrimination in our employment practices.