Design Manager

Design Manager – Lead Visionary Design at Buro Happold, Riyadh

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for shaping impactful design solutions that blend creativity with technical excellence? Buro Happold, a globally recognized leader in engineering, design, and consultancy, is seeking a dynamic and visionary Design Manager to join our Riyadh office. This role is ideal for an innovative professional who thrives at the intersection of design, sustainability, and cutting-edge technology, driving excellence in projects that redefine urban landscapes and architectural excellence.

As the Design Manager, you will play a pivotal role in steering design initiatives across diverse sectors, including but not limited to architecture, urban planning, and infrastructure. Your expertise will be instrumental in fostering collaboration between multidisciplinary teams, ensuring that every project aligns with the highest standards of aesthetic appeal, functionality, and sustainability. This is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy by contributing to transformative projects that enhance the built environment in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Key Responsibilities:

You will be responsible for:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement design strategies that align with client objectives, industry trends, and Buro Happold’s commitment to sustainability and innovation. Lead design reviews and workshops to ensure cohesive, high-quality outcomes.
• Project Oversight: Manage end-to-end design processes for key projects, from conceptualization to execution. Collaborate with architects, engineers, and stakeholders to deliver visually compelling and technically robust designs.
• Team Empowerment: Mentor and guide a team of designers, ensuring they are equipped with the latest tools, techniques, and industry knowledge. Foster a culture of creativity, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as a bridge between clients, internal teams, and external partners, translating complex design concepts into actionable plans. Present design visions confidently and persuasively to diverse audiences.
• Innovation and Adaptability: Stay ahead of emerging design trends, technologies, and sustainability practices. Propose innovative solutions that push boundaries while adhering to project constraints and regulatory requirements.
• Quality Assurance: Establish and uphold design standards that ensure excellence in every deliverable. Conduct thorough reviews and quality checks to mitigate risks and enhance project outcomes.

Why Join Buro Happold?

At Buro Happold, we believe in the power of design to create meaningful change. As a Design Manager, you will:

• Work on high-profile projects that shape the future of cities and communities in Saudi Arabia and internationally.
• Collaborate with a global team of experts in engineering, architecture, and sustainability, driving interdisciplinary innovation.
• Contribute to a culture that values creativity, integrity, and professional growth, with opportunities for continuous learning and development.
• Leverage cutting-edge technology and tools to enhance design processes and deliver exceptional results.
• Make a tangible impact on the built environment, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals for urban development and sustainability.

Qualifications and Skills:

We are looking for a candidate with:

• A proven track record as a Design Manager or in a senior design leadership role, with at least 8+ years of experience in architecture, urban design, or a related field.
• An exceptional portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects, demonstrating versatility, creativity, and technical proficiency.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and guide teams toward shared goals.
• A deep understanding of sustainable design principles and the ability to integrate them into project strategies.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, or similar) and familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) processes.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and the capacity to navigate complex project challenges with resilience and innovation.
• A passion for Saudi Arabia’s vision for urban development and a commitment to contributing to its architectural and design evolution.

If you are a visionary leader eager to shape the future of design in Riyadh and beyond, we invite you to apply and be part of a team that is redefining excellence in the built environment. Join Buro Happold and help us create spaces that inspire, innovate, and endure.