Senior Architectural Design Lead

Senior Architectural Design Lead

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Senior Architect to take ownership of the full design lifecycle for complex construction projects. In this leadership capacity, you will ensure that every architectural element aligns with the original design intent while meeting the highest quality benchmarks, regulatory standards, and client expectations. You will bridge the gap between creative vision and technical execution, guiding multidisciplinary teams from conceptualization through to project handover.

Key Responsibilities

Design Leadership & Innovation

• Spearhead the architectural design process for large-scale projects, developing creative, practical, and sustainable solutions tailored to client objectives.

• Translate client briefs into compelling design concepts, presenting visualizations and technical proposals that clearly articulate the project vision.

• Drive design excellence by reviewing and approving all architectural drawings, models, and specifications to ensure accuracy, functionality, and aesthetic integrity.

Project & Financial Management

• Take full accountability for project delivery, meticulously managing timelines, budgets, and resource allocation to meet contractual milestones.

• Identify potential design or construction risks early, implementing proactive measures to avoid delays and cost overruns.

• Coordinate with quantity surveyors and cost consultants to align design choices with financial constraints without compromising quality.

Team Mentorship & Development

• Provide hands-on mentorship to junior architects and design staff, sharing technical knowledge, best practices, and industry insights to foster professional growth.

• Delegate tasks effectively, ensuring team members are challenged and supported in their roles.

Regulatory Compliance & Technical Coordination

• Guarantee that all designs strictly adhere to local building codes, zoning ordinances, fire safety regulations, and sustainability requirements.

• Liaise closely with structural, MEP, and civil engineering teams to resolve technical conflicts and ensure seamless integration of all building systems.

• Oversee the preparation of comprehensive construction documentation, including detailed shop drawings, material schedules, and specifications.

Stakeholder Collaboration

• Serve as the primary architectural point of contact for clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities, facilitating transparent communication and swift issue resolution.

• Conduct regular site visits to verify that on-ground execution matches approved design documentation and quality standards.

Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)

• Champion HSE protocols within the design phase, ensuring that safety considerations are embedded into architectural decisions.

• Participate in safety audits and incident reviews, contributing to a culture of continuous improvement in line with company and IMS policies.

Required Skills & Competencies

• Technical Mastery: Extensive knowledge of architectural theory, structural systems, material properties, and sustainable design practices.

• Software Proficiency: Advanced skills in industry-standard tools including AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite for presentation purposes.

• Regulatory Expertise: Deep understanding of local and international building codes (e.g., IBC, NFPA) and zoning laws.

• Communication: Outstanding presentation and negotiation skills to influence stakeholders and secure buy-in for design proposals.

• Leadership: Proven ability to inspire and manage cross-functional teams, driving collaboration and high performance.

• Systems Knowledge: Functional familiarity with ERP platforms, particularly SAP, for project tracking and resource management.

Experience & Education

• Professional Experience: A minimum of 8 years of progressive architectural experience, with at least 5 years in a senior or lead role managing full-cycle project delivery.

• Regional Experience: Previous work experience within the GCC region (2+ years) is highly advantageous.

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture from an accredited institution. Professional licensure (e.g., AIA, RIBA, or equivalent) is strongly preferred.