Design Manager

Overview

Atkins are searching for a candidate to join our team with experience in managing multi disciplinary design delivery across projects within the UAE and GCC Region. The candidate should typically have a minimum of 8 years experience in the Middle East, with proven experience working within a multi disciplinary design or built environment consultancy. Minimum 3 years of experience in Design Management or similar roles is required.

Responsibility for Convening coordinating and managing the overall technical input of the multidisciplinary design team ensuring coordinated compliant and high quality design outputs. Create and maintain the Design Management Plan DMP in collaboration with the Project Manager and design team ensuring alignment with scope programme organisation charts and communication pathways. Accountable for the design coordination process including interfaces between disciplines sub consultants third parties and Client requirements in accordance with quality management procedures.

Responsible for the compilation of technical input into change management requirements. Coordination with the Technical Leads to determine impact on time and resources. Interactions with Client technical team to achieve consensus on design philosophies and outcomes. Develop strategies for project design packaging to align with the needs of the design and or construction phasing and schedule. Apply experience and lessons learned from previous projects to enhance delivery efficiency and quality.

Responsible for the development of a multi-disciplinary programme with buy-in from technical leads that aligns with the project requirements. Responsible for the technical set‑up of the project and support the technical set‑up of project deliverables and models including document structure numbering and tracking mechanisms. Responsible for working within the budgets defined and accepted by the design Technical Leads and actively track design progress identify risks or constraints and support mitigation actions in coordination with the wider project team.

Responsible for sharing and promoting the technical achievements of the technical team. Promote collaboration and consistent engagement across technical package leaders and sub consultants. Maintaining consistent and productive input from the leaders of the technical package groups.

Responsible for confirming that contractual deliverables have been met prior to the production of invoices. Responsible for the compilation of potential scope gaps changes and variations assessing impacts on time and effort in coordination with the Project Manager and Technical Leads.

Responsible for the technical engagement with the Client's technical team under the guidance of the Project Manager or Project Director. Responsible for providing advice and appropriate technical resources to address Client queries and design comments in a timely and structured manner. Support stakeholder engagement and approvals processes ensuring submissions are coordinated and aligned with Client and statutory requirements.

• Strong capability in multi disciplinary design coordination and interface management.
• Sound knowledge of design and construction processes, including safety in design requirements.
• Proficient in digital delivery and BIM enabled environments, including Revit, Navisworks, and design coordination tools.
• Advanced proficiency in MS Project, Excel, and Word.
• Strong understanding of quality management requirements.

• Demonstrates structured, methodical, and proactive leadership.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence skills.
• Able to lead without reliance on authority, influencing outcomes through credibility and clarity.
• Results oriented with a continuous improvement and growth mindset.
• Upholds the highest standards of integrity, safety, and professionalism.

Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a relevant design / engineering discipline.