Senior Design Manager – MENA Region

Company: Cundall –

WebSite: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Job Description:**Subject: Senior Design Manager Opportunity at Cundall’s MENA Division in Saudi Arabia**

Cundall’s MENA division has experienced significant growth, establishing itself as an award-winning firm specializing in multidisciplinary design and consultancy within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Our organization is currently engaged in several high-profile and intricate projects of national significance. Our presence in Saudi Arabia is substantiated by over 15 years of relevant project experience and is reinforced by established professional relationships with both public and private sector entities. The Riyadh office serves as a key operational hub within Cundall’s MENA network, facilitating close collaboration with our teams located in the UAE, Qatar, and other global locations. Collectively, we deliver high-performance, forward-thinking designs that align with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 and the Kingdom’s broader transformation initiatives.

An exceptional opportunity has arisen to join our established, reputable, and expanding team. This position offers the prospect of integrating in-depth local knowledge with world-class technical expertise. Successful candidates will become integral members of a business prioritizing technical excellence, a collaborative work environment, and sustainable practices in all facets of our operations.

**Role Description**

The Senior Design Manager will assume responsibility for the comprehensive project delivery process, ensuring projects are completed within stipulated timelines, budgetary constraints, and in accordance with established quality standards. The role encompasses project execution and management, integrating design, procurement, construction, and handover phases, while proactively managing risks, contractual obligations, and stakeholder expectations.

**Key Responsibilities:**

* Spearhead the overall project delivery process, from project inception through design, procurement, construction, and final handover.
* Rapidly assimilate client processes, needs, and expectations, effectively communicating these requirements to the project team.
* Cultivate and maintain collaborative relationships with clients and stakeholders, safeguarding Cundall’s commercial, contractual, and professional interests at all times.
* Serve as the primary and reliable point of contact for clients regarding project-related matters.
* Conduct project kick-off meetings at each project stage, ensuring the delivery team possesses a comprehensive understanding of project deliverables and requirements.
* Develop and maintain comprehensive project execution plans, including a master delivery program coordinated with delivery team leads, to facilitate effective project execution.
* Assume accountability for the financial performance of projects, managing discipline leads’ month-end procedures, invoicing processes, and debt management.
* Make informed day-to-day decisions pertaining to project progression.
* Provide clear and concise directives to the delivery team, ensuring stable project control.
* Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, contractors, consultants, and regulatory authorities.
* Oversee procurement processes, contract administration, and risk management protocols.
* Monitor project progress against established cost, schedule, and quality benchmarks, reporting findings to the Project Director.
* Chair progress meetings, prepare comprehensive reports, and escalate risks/issues as required.
* Manage change control procedures, claims, and commercial implications arising from project variations.
* Maintain meticulous and accurate project records and reports.
* Proactively identify and escalate any performance concerns within the delivery teams internally, prior to client notification.
* Serve as the initial point of escalation for project-related issues, when necessary.
* Operate with a high degree of autonomy in leading large design teams, while recognizing the need for guidance when appropriate.
* Demonstrate a thorough understanding of QA procedures and ensure adherence by all project teams.
* Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations throughout project execution.
* Contribute to lessons-learned documentation and facilitate knowledge transfer for future projects.
* Actively participate in internal and external growth initiatives and contribute to the development of internal systems and procedures.

**Qualifications:**

* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
* Minimum of 12 years of experience in project management of large-scale and complex projects.
* Demonstrated expertise in project delivery methodologies (Design-Bid-Build, D&B, EPC, etc.).
* Proven leadership capabilities in managing contractors, consultants, and multidisciplinary teams.
* Advanced proficiency in planning and scheduling software (Primavera P6, MS Project, etc.).
* Exceptional communication, leadership, and stakeholder management abilities.

**Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion:**

Cundall is committed to fostering a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities and are dedicated to supporting the diverse voices of our employees.

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