Design Manager - Real Estate

Job description / Role

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to oversee and manage the full design lifecycle of multiple real estate developments in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The role will involve leading projects from visioning and concept design through detailed design and construction stages.

The successful candidate will play a key role in coordinating consultants, managing approvals with local authorities, and ensuring that design intent is maintained throughout the development process. This position also includes managing a small design team and supporting master planning and individual project developments.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from concept creation and visioning through to construction-stage design.
• Oversee master planning, schematic, detailed design, and construction documentation across multiple projects.
• Coordinate and manage external consultants, including architects, engineers, and specialist designers.
• Review design submissions, drawings, specifications, and contractor submittals to ensure compliance with design intent, quality standards, budgets, timelines, and regulations.
• Liaise with local authorities and regulatory bodies to secure planning, design, and construction approvals.
• Ensure designs comply with statutory requirements, authority regulations, and developer standards.
• Coordinate architectural design with structural, MEP, interior, and landscape consultants to ensure integrated and buildable solutions.
• Manage and guide a small internal design team, ensuring quality, consistency, and timely deliverables.
• Review and approve design submissions to ensure alignment with project vision, budget, and timelines.
• Support construction teams by resolving design-related issues during execution.
• Act as the design interface between the developer, consultants, authorities, and project stakeholders.

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Design, or a related discipline.
• Strong background in concept design, visioning, and design management through construction stages.
• Demonstrated experience working with Abu Dhabi authorities and approval processes.
• Experience managing master plans and multiple projects simultaneously.
• Previous exposure to a sub-developer or third-party developer environment is preferred.
• Ability to manage and mentor a small design team.
• Strong coordination, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• In-depth understanding of design standards, construction processes, and regulatory requirements in the UAE.

About the Company

Service

Our aim is to provide our clients and candidates with a consistent, quality service that goes beyond the norm, giving them peace of mind and complete trust in our ability to meet their needs.

Knowledge

Big Fish consultants specialise in their fields and have extensive experience in the region and beyond. We take pride in our knowledge and network and believe that our relationships are built on trust and integrity and are made for the long term.

Care

At Big Fish, as well as caring for the people we work with, we also care about the world and environment we live in, that's why Big Fish support initiatives that promote human welfare, environmental protection and sustainability.