Senior Design Manager, Architecture & Interior Design

Overview

This senior leadership role is focused on steering the design evolution and execution of major leisure and hospitality developments across Saudi Arabia. The selected professional will guide multidisciplinary teams, uphold design quality, protect the intended concept, and work closely with stakeholders to deliver innovative solutions that satisfy timelines, budgets, brand expectations, and local regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct the architectural and interior design direction from early concept development through detailed design and construction.
• Safeguard the original design intent at every stage of the project.
• Promote creative innovation that reflects current hospitality trends and enhances the guest experience.
• Assess and sign off on deliverables such as concept decks, drawings, technical specifications, and material choices.
• Coordinate and manage consultants, design agencies, and contractors to support timely, high-quality delivery.
• Prepare, track, and adjust design schedules, budgets, and staffing plans.
• Spot design-related risks early and resolve issues efficiently across the project lifecycle.
• Lead value engineering efforts without compromising the design concept or brand requirements.
• Serve as the main point of contact between internal teams and outside consultants.
• Work with hotel, food and beverage, and entertainment operators to ensure design work follows brand rules.
• Present design proposals and project updates to senior leaders and clients.
• Liaise with local authorities to secure compliance with Saudi codes and approval procedures.
• Confirm that all outputs align with local building regulations, sustainability expectations, and global best practices.
• Manage BIM coordination and ensure design integration across architecture, interior design, MEP, landscape, and related disciplines.
• Review shop drawings, prototypes, and material samples.
• Assist construction teams by offering technical direction and resolving design issues during execution.
• Set and maintain design quality benchmarks across all project phases.
• Ensure designs reflect the project’s brand identity, guest experience goals, and operational needs.
• Track construction progress to verify consistency with approved design documents.
• Carry out site visits and inspections to confirm workmanship quality and design consistency.

Candidate Profile

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a closely related discipline.
• At least 20 years of experience in architecture or interior design, including a minimum of 5 years in a leadership position.
• Demonstrated success on large-scale hospitality or leisure projects such as hotels, resorts, or entertainment venues.
• A strong portfolio that showcases high-standard design delivery.
• Strong creative ability and refined visual sensibility.
• Excellent capabilities in project planning, coordination, and organization.
• Deep understanding of hospitality design requirements and guest experience principles.
• Proficiency with design and documentation tools such as AutoCAD, Revit/BIM, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with stakeholder management experience.
• Comfort working in a fast-moving, multicultural environment.
• Previous experience in Saudi Arabia or the GCC region.
• Knowledge of Saudi regulatory frameworks and approval processes.

Rewards and Benefits

• Tax-free compensation package.
• Life insurance coverage.
• Medical insurance.
• Paid annual leave.
• Company gratuity scheme.
• Discretionary bonus opportunity.
• Annual flight allowance.
• Transport and housing allowances.
• Employee wellbeing support with 24/7 access to specialists covering finance, legal, family care, personal health, fitness, and nutrition.

About the Employer

AtkinsRéalis is a global engineering services and nuclear organization that combines people, data, and technology to help transform infrastructure and energy systems. Working with clients and partners worldwide, the company aims to shape a better future through expert consulting, design, engineering, and project management.