Design Manager

Dubai, United Arab Emirates | Posted on 03/28/2025

The Design Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the studio's design output, including project management, scheduling, team coordination, client relations, and administrative tasks. This role involves close collaboration with designers, clients, vendors, and other stakeholders to ensure timely project delivery, adherence to contracts, budget management, and maintaining the highest quality standards. Additionally, the Design Manager will take on projects as the Lead Designer, from inception to completion, including site supervision, utilising a team when required.

Success in this role requires extensive experience in luxury residential, hospitality, and commercial markets within the UAE, strong creative and management skills, and the ability to translate client briefs into exceptional designs. You must possess a proven history of successfully completed projects in Dubai, a well-established network of suppliers, and the ability to confidently manage and engage with third parties, contractors, and client expectations. Additionally, you have expertise in leading and managing a design team, ensuring timely deliverables, providing mentorship, and supporting team members' career development.

Responsibilities:

• Independently lead a team of designers and production staff, prioritizing client management and ensuring effective communication, clearly defined production schedules and deadlines.
• Collaborate with HR to define roles, performance management, participate in interviews, and assist in the selection of new team members.
• Collaborate with Sales Team on proposals and deliverables for scheduling new business.
• Collaborate with Marketing team for content creation, opportunities and final project photos, videos, etc.
• Manage deliverables for the design team, including interns, provide training, performance management, and development of KPIs, and identify growth opportunities.
• Communicate the company's brand message through design, presentations, and professional conduct.
• Create, implement, and maintain processes to optimize deliverables, streamline workflows, and improve software management, ensuring high system performance and production efficiency.
• Represent the company at industry events, speaking engagements, and through social media platforms.
• Foster strong relationships with clients to encourage repeat business and referrals for business development.
• Effectively communicate with clients, vendors, and team members to understand design needs, preferences, and objectives, translating them into actionable project requirements.
• Manage your own projects from concept to completion, ensuring alignment with client expectations and timely delivery of presentations and drawings.
• Oversee project supervision both onsite and remotely, maintaining communication with clients and contractors.
• Negotiate pricing, contracts, and terms with suppliers to secure cost-effective solutions while maintaining high quality standards.
• Conduct regular project meetings to review progress, address challenges, and provide leadership and support to the team, maintaining a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Oversee project documentation, invoicing, budget tracking, and resource allocation, ensuring accurate records are maintained.
• Manage and organize the materials library, regularly reviewing samples to ensure they meet the studio's needs, while maintaining strong relationships with suppliers to facilitate timely procurement and updates on new materials.
• Provide regular progress and performance reports to management, along with solutions to any issues.
• Stay updated on industry trends to ensure the studio remains relevant and competitive.

• Bachelor's degree in Interior Design/Architecture.
  
• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Interior Designer with a strong passion for creative design.
  
• Expertise in luxury residential, hospitality, and commercial interior design.
  
• Proficient in software such as AutoCAD, Photoshop, Illustrator, Microsoft Excel/word, PowerPoint, SketchUp and 3DS Max.
  
• Strong creative, organizational, and communication skills.
  
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage a large team of staff with strong leadership, mentoring, and interpersonal skills.
  
• Valid UAE driving license and vehicle.
  
• Must be flexible and available for international travel based on business needs.