Design Director - Ultra-Luxury Development Projects

Design Director - Ultra-Luxury Development Projects - Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Parsons is hiring an experienced Design Director to lead the architectural and infrastructure design delivery for a high-profile, ultra-luxury mixed-use development in Riyadh. This strategic role offers the chance to shape iconic, future-forward environments aligned with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. The selected candidate will guide design excellence across disciplines, from concept to construction.

Job Location:

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Industry: Engineering
Function:
Architecture / Interior Design
Salary:  monthly (Market estimated)
Gender: Any
Candidate Nationality:
Any
Current

Location:

Any
Job Type: Full Time

As Design Director, you will define the creative and technical direction for world-class architecture, infrastructure, and integrated systems. You'll lead multidisciplinary teams and consultants through every stage of the design lifecycle, ensuring cohesive, innovative, and sustainable design solutions. This position is critical to achieving architectural brilliance in hospitality, cultural, and high-end residential sectors.

• Lead full-spectrum design management of buildings and infrastructure in a luxury mixed-use project
• Translate client aspirations into compelling design vision aligned with development strategy
• Direct and coordinate architectural, structural, MEP, and landscape design teams
• Oversee design consultants and ensure timely delivery of all project packages to IFC level
• Conduct design reviews, manage stakeholder workshops, and lead client presentations
• Champion sustainable and smart design approaches, with integration of BIM and digital tools
• Navigate regulatory approval processes and align design with local and international standards
• Drive value engineering, risk assessments, and design optimization efforts
• Ensure design quality, budget control, and buildability throughout the project cycle
• Mentor junior architects and engineers, fostering a high-performance design culture

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Engineering (Master's preferred)
• Minimum 20 years of experience, including 10 in a leadership role on luxury or mega-developments
• Proven ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary design programs from masterplan to execution
• Regional experience in the Middle East; knowledge of Saudi Vision 2030 projects preferred
• Strong understanding of urban design, high-end architecture, and integrated infrastructure
• Registered Architect or Chartered Engineer (e.g., RIBA, AIA, PE, CEng)
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, and collaborative BIM environments
• Skilled in stakeholder engagement, design governance, and regulatory compliance

• Take part in delivering landmark developments that define the future of luxury living
• Join a globally recognized engineering firm with deep roots in the Middle East
• Access unique opportunities for growth, innovation, and career advancement
• Work with visionary clients and talented teams shaping mega-scale hospitality and cultural destinations

Parsons Corporation is a global force in engineering, urban development, and smart infrastructure. In the Middle East, Parsons is at the forefront of iconic transformation projects supporting national strategies such as Saudi Vision 2030. We specialize in multidisciplinary design, construction management, and digital innovation, delivering ambitious outcomes in hospitality, transport, and urban planning. Join us to imagine next.