Executive Director, Design - Real Estate
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Key skills for this role
About the Role
We are partnering with a leading real estate developer to appoint an Executive Director, Design to lead design vision and governance across large-scale developments. You will oversee Architecture, Interior Design, and design quality functions.
Key Skills for This Role
Responsibilities
- Lead and define the overall design vision and strategic direction across a multidisciplinary Design Studio
- Establish and govern design standards, guidelines, and quality frameworks across the development portfolio
- Drive architectural visioning and innovative design solutions that align with long term business objectives
- Oversee Architecture, Interior Design, Design Concierge, and design quality governance functions
- Mentor and lead high performing multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of creativity and excellence
- Review and elevate design quality throughout all project stages, from concept to delivery
- Collaborate with executive leadership, consultants, government authorities, and key stakeholders
- Champion sustainability, innovation, and emerging design technologies across the portfolio
Requirements
- 25+ years of executive leadership experience in Architecture, Urban Design, Interior Design, or the built environment
- Proven experience leading multidisciplinary design teams within major real estate development organizations
- Outstanding portfolio featuring large scale mixed use, hospitality, luxury residential, retail, and destination developments
- Strong executive presence with the ability to influence C suite, Board, and government stakeholders
- GCC/UAE development experience is highly preferred
Full Job Posting
Overview
- We are partnering with a leading real estate developer in the UAE to appoint an accomplished Executive Director, Design.
- Lead the vision, governance, and delivery of design excellence across a prestigious portfolio of large scale developments.
- Rare opportunity for an influential design executive to shape the design identity of landmark residential, hospitality, commercial, and mixed use destinations.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and define the overall design vision and strategic direction across a multidisciplinary Design Studio.
- Establish and govern design standards, guidelines, and quality frameworks across the development portfolio.
- Drive architectural visioning and innovative design solutions that align with long term business objectives.
- Oversee Architecture, Interior Design, Design Concierge, and design quality governance functions.
- Mentor and lead high performing multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of creativity and excellence.
- Review and elevate design quality throughout all project stages, from concept to delivery.
- Collaborate with executive leadership, consultants, government authorities, and key stakeholders to deliver world class developments.
- Champion sustainability, innovation, and emerging design technologies across the portfolio.
Requirements
- 25+ years of executive leadership experience in Architecture, Urban Design, Interior Design, or the built environment.
- Proven experience leading multidisciplinary design teams within major real estate development organizations.
- Outstanding portfolio featuring large scale mixed use, hospitality, luxury residential, retail, and destination developments.
- Strong executive presence with the ability to influence C suite, Board, and government stakeholders.
- GCC/UAE development experience is highly preferred, with professional architectural registration considered an advantage.
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