Design Manager

Job description / Role

We are representing a well-established real estate developer in Abu Dhabi who is seeking an experienced Design Manager to support the delivery of high-quality residential developments across the region.

The role will play a key part in managing the design process from concept through to construction, coordinating with internal stakeholders, external consultants, and authorities to ensure projects are delivered in line with brand standards, programme, and local regulations.

Key Responsibilities

* Manage the full design lifecycle for residential projects from concept, schematic, and detailed design through to construction and handover
* Coordinate and manage external consultants including architects, engineers, and specialist designers
* Review and manage design deliverables to ensure compliance with project briefs, budgets, timelines, and Abu Dhabi authority requirements
* Liaise with internal development, commercial, and construction teams to ensure design intent is maintained throughout delivery
* Support value engineering exercises without compromising design quality or functionality
* Ensure all designs comply with UAE building codes, authority approvals, and sustainability requirements
* Identify and manage design risks, changes, and approvals in a proactive manner

What's on Offer

* Monthly salary: AED 34,000 - 36,000 (tax-free)
* Additional benefits package including medical insurance, annual flights, and other standard allowances
* Opportunity to work on high-profile residential developments in Abu Dhabi
* Long-term career progression within a stable and growing developer

Candidate Requirements

* Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a related discipline
* 8-10 years of total design management experience within the built environment
* Minimum 3 years' experience in the UAE, working on residential developments
* Proven experience working client-side for a real estate developer or leading consultancy
* Strong understanding of the Abu Dhabi development process, authority approvals, and local regulations
* Excellent coordination, communication, and stakeholder management skills
* Fluent in English (Arabic is an advantage)

About the Company

Blake Anderson is a boutique consultancy based in the UK, with a satellite office in Dubai. Specialising in Technical and Construction Recruitment, Blake Anderson provides a superior service to clients and candidates within the construction and technical sectors.

We concentrate on placing professionals throughout the world, focusing mainly on the Middle East and Asia, drawing on both the global and local markets for highly qualified professionals. In order to attract the best talent, we invest in various high-end advertising mediums.

With a database of 1,000's of candidates, our experienced consultants have a wealth of recruitment knowledge and have a consultative approach at all times, ensuring a second to none service.