Director - Design - Golf - Sport BU (SPA303)

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Design for our Golf Division within the Sports Business Unit (SPA303) to lead the strategic vision and execution of world-class golf course and facility design projects. This pivotal role will be based on-site in Saudi Arabia and will play a critical part in shaping the future of golf in the region by delivering innovative, sustainable, and immersive design solutions that align with Qiddiya Investment Company’s long-term objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a comprehensive design strategy for golf projects, ensuring alignment with corporate goals, industry best practices, and stakeholder expectations. Drive innovation in course design, player experience, and sustainability to position Qiddiya as a global leader in golf destination development.
• Project Management: Oversee the end-to-end design process, from conceptualization and feasibility studies to final construction documentation and post-occupancy evaluations. Collaborate closely with architects, engineers, landscape designers, and construction teams to ensure seamless execution and adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Team Leadership & Development: Build and mentor a high-performing design team, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and excellence. Identify and nurture talent, while ensuring the team remains at the forefront of industry trends and technological advancements in golf course design.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as the primary liaison between the design team, senior leadership, government entities, and external partners. Present design proposals, secure approvals, and manage relationships with key stakeholders to ensure project success and regulatory compliance.
• Sustainability & Innovation: Champion sustainable design practices, including water conservation, native landscaping, and eco-friendly materials, to minimize environmental impact. Explore cutting-edge technologies such as 3D modeling, virtual reality, and data analytics to enhance design precision and operational efficiency.
• Market & Competitive Analysis: Conduct thorough market research and competitive benchmarking to identify opportunities for differentiation and growth. Stay abreast of global golf trends, player preferences, and industry standards to inform design decisions and maintain Qiddiya’s competitive edge.
• Budget & Resource Management: Develop and manage design budgets, ensuring optimal allocation of resources while maintaining financial discipline. Monitor project expenditures, identify cost-saving opportunities, and report on financial performance to senior leadership.

Qualifications & Experience

To excel in this role, candidates must possess a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and a passion for golf course design. The ideal candidate will have:

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in Landscape Architecture, Golf Course Design, or a related field. Professional certification in golf course design (e.g., from the American Society of Golf Course Architects) is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in golf course design, with at least 5 years in a leadership or managerial capacity. Experience in large-scale, high-profile golf projects is preferred.
• Proven track record of delivering complex design projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Experience working in the Middle East or similar environments is advantageous.
• Strong project management skills, with proficiency in industry-standard software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, GIS, and 3D modeling tools). Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) is a plus.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts to diverse audiences, including executives, clients, and regulatory bodies. Fluency in English is required; Arabic language skills are a valuable asset.
• Demonstrated commitment to sustainability and innovation in design, with a deep understanding of environmental regulations and best practices.
• Leadership qualities that inspire teams, foster collaboration, and drive results. Ability to navigate complex stakeholder dynamics and build consensus across multiple disciplines.

Why Join Us?

As a Director of Design in Qiddiya Investment Company’s Sports Business Unit, you will have the unique opportunity to shape the future of golf in Saudi Arabia and beyond. You will work alongside a talented team of professionals in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that values creativity, excellence, and sustainability. In addition to a competitive compensation package, you will enjoy access to cutting-edge resources, professional development opportunities, and the chance to contribute to a landmark project that will redefine the global golf landscape.

If you are a visionary leader with a passion for golf course design and a drive to make a lasting impact, we invite you to apply and become part of Qiddiya’s transformative journey.