Director - Architecture, Retail & Hospitality

Company Description

Work with Us. Change the World.

At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.

There has never been a better time to be h accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.

We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.

We are seeking a visionary and experienced Director of Architecture specializing in Retail & Hospitality to join our team in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. As a key leader in our organization, you will be responsible for overseeing the design and execution of innovative architectural projects in the retail and hospitality sectors across the region.

• Oversee the management of the practice and/or projects, including design direction, budget oversight, and bid strategy.
• Guide the conceptualization and development of design projects, ensuring innovation, quality, and alignment with client goals.
• Collaborate with the Architecture + Interiors leadership team to define the technical direction and contribute to long-term strategic planning.
• Align design, technical, and business development teams to ensure cohesive and integrated project outcomes.
• Engage directly with clients to understand their vision and translate it into compelling, contextually responsive designs.
• Lead design presentations to clients, stakeholders, and review boards, clearly articulating design intent and rationale.
• Provide high-level oversight of technical aspects, ensuring alignment with client objectives, codes, and consultancy standards.
• Define project timelines and milestones, monitor progress, and ensure timely delivery within scope and budget.
• Prepare financial reports and forecasts, and oversee project budgets to ensure alignment with technical and financial goals.
• Collaborate with engineers, project managers, and other disciplines to ensure seamless integration of technical solutions.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies and ensure technical solutions are scalable, adaptable, and future-ready.
• Solves high-level design and business challenges through innovative thinking and cross-functional collaboration.
• Drives process improvements, adapts business plans, and contributes to industry thought leadership.
• Ensures design excellence, documentation accuracy, coordination integrity, and code compliance across all projects.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution
• Valid professional architecture license
• Minimum 15+ years of experience in architectural design, with a focus on retail and hospitality projects
• Proven track record in leading and managing large-scale, complex architectural projects
• Strong portfolio demonstrating innovative and successful retail and hospitality designs
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire diverse teams
• Exceptional project management abilities, including budgeting, resource allocation, and timeline management
• Proficiency in architectural software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Sketch Up
• In-depth knowledge of retail and hospitality design trends, sustainable design practices, and international building codes

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options,well-being resources, employee assistance…