Senior Architect

Job description / Role

My client a leading Architectural and Engineering consultancy are seeking an accomplished Senior Architect to lead high-profile, luxury projects in the UAE, delivering innovative and sustainable architectural designs from concept to completion. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in high-end projects, with expertise in modern design tools, UAE regulations, and sustainability standards. This role requires exceptional leadership, creativity, and project management skills to ensure projects meet the highest standards of quality, efficiency, and client satisfaction while aligning with Dubai's vision for sustainable urban development.



Key Responsibilities

* Lead all design phases (Concept Design, Schematic Design, Detailed Design, Construction Documents, and Handover), ensuring alignment with project vision and client expectations.
* Drive innovative and practical design solutions, overseeing projects from inception to completion.
* Develop technical specifications, prioritizing sustainable, high-performance materials in compliance with UAE's sustainability frameworks (e.g., Dubai Green Building Regulations, Estidama, LEED).
* Supervise the production of high-quality drawings, visualizations, and presentations, guiding team members to ensure excellence and consistency.
* Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (e.g., MEP, structural, landscape) to deliver integrated, innovative solutions.
* Prepare and present compelling design proposals to clients, incorporating feedback and iterative refinements.
* Ensure compliance with UAE regulations, including Dubai Municipality, Dubai Civil Defense, DEWA, DMCC, Trakhees, and international standards (e.g., IBC, NFPA).
* Liaise with local authorities, attend technical meetings, and secure necessary permits and approvals, including for high-rise projects.
* Manage project scope, fee structures, and resource planning, ensuring deliverables are met within budget, scope, and timelines.
* Mentor and supervise design teams, conducting quality checks and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
* Contribute to the company's Lessons Learnt Database to enhance project outcomes and best practices.
* Maintain comprehensive project documentation, including correspondence, meeting minutes, and technical notes.
* Support on-site activities, including inspections, surveys, and construction oversight to ensure design intent is maintained.
* Champion Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows, leveraging tools like Revit, BIM360, and Navisworks to enhance collaboration and efficiency.
* Integrate emerging technologies, such as AI-assisted design tools (e.g., Midjourney, Stable Diffusion), VR/AR for client presentations, and parametric design for complex geometries.
* Promote sustainability through energy-efficient designs, renewable technologies, and alignment with UAE's net-zero and circular economy initiatives.

Performance Monitoring

Your performance will be evaluated based on the following key criteria:

* Leadership excellence in motivating teams and fostering collaboration.
* Quality, innovation, and sustainability of design outputs.
* Technical accuracy and compliance with UAE and international standards.
* Effective delivery and closeout of projects within scope, budget, and timelines.
* Proactive identification and resolution of project challenges.
* Seamless coordination with clients, technical teams, and external stakeholders.
* Contribution to the firm's digital transformation and sustainability goals.

Required Skills and Qualifications

* Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture from an accredited institution.
* Minimum of 12 years of experience in architectural design, with at least 5 years in the UAE, preferably Dubai, working on high-end residential, commercial, hospitality, or mixed-use developments.
* Registered Architect with Dubai Municipality or equivalent professional body; eligibility for high-rise project approvals is highly desirable.
* Advanced proficiency in core architectural software: Revit (expert level), AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Rhino.
* Expertise in BIM tools (e.g., BIM360, Navisworks) for project coordination and delivery.
* Proficiency in rendering and visualization tools such as Lumion, Enscape, or Twin motion for high-quality client presentations.
* Experience with parametric design tools like Grasshopper for innovative, complex designs.
* Familiarity with emerging technologies, including AI-driven design tools (e.g., Midjourney, Spacemaker) and VR/AR platforms for immersive presentations.
* In-depth knowledge of UAE-specific regulations, including Dubai Municipality, Dubai Civil Defense, DEWA, Trakhees, and sustainability frameworks like Al Sa'fat, Estidama, and LEED.
* Proven experience delivering luxury projects with a focus on innovative and sustainable design solutions.
* Exceptional leadership, comm and interpersonal skills

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.