Senior Design Manager

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.

At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger; ensuring they get an education that’s, quite literally, world class.

We are looking for a Senior Design Manager to join our growing team in Dubai. This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned professional with a proven track record of delivering complex school development and educational facility projects across the region. Youll lead the full project lifecycle, from initial concept and stakeholder engagement through to detailed design, construction, and final handover.

Responsibilities:

Design Leadership & Strategy

Champion innovative, functional, and aesthetic design solutions aligned with client needs and organisational vision.

Drive creative direction and design quality across all stages of development.

Define project requirements in collaboration with school stakeholders and educational authorities.

Design Management & Execution

Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams across multiple projects.

Ensure timely delivery of design solutions within scope and budget.

Support business development and operations through collaborative project execution.

Stakeholder Collaboration

Act as the primary liaison for clients, consultants, contractors, and ministries.

Lead design reviews and regulatory presentations with confidence and clarity.

Maintain consistent communication of design intent across all project phases.

Quality Control & Documentation

Review and validate all drawings, specifications, and design documentation.

Implement rigorous quality standards and sustainability benchmarks.

Ensure compliance with regional codes, safety standards, and best practices.

Budget & Resource Management

Monitor budgets and resource allocation to optimize project performance.

Ensure your team is equipped with the tools and talent to succeed.

Track milestones and proactively resolve project challenges.

Innovation & Sustainability

Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies.

Integrate green building practices and future-ready design into every project.

Required Skills & Experience:

Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Architecture or related field.

Professional licensure (RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) preferred.

LEED or sustainability certification is a plus.

PMP or project management certification desirable.

Minimum 10 years in architectural design with at least 3 in a senior leadership role.

Demonstrated success delivering large-scale education or institutional projects.

Strong portfolio showcasing relevant design excellence across sectors.

Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management.

Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Rhino and related design software.

Deep knowledge of building codes, construction methodologies, and sustainable design principles.

Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects in a dynamic environment.

Why Join Cognita?

At Cognita, we’re not just building schools, we’re shaping futures. This role offers the chance to:

Lead the design of innovative, future ready learning environments.

Drive impactful projects that support regional growth and educational excellence.

Collaborate with passionate professionals in a globally respected education group.

Be part of a purpose driven, ambitious, and forward thinking organisation.

Please note, this role is office-based (Dubai, UAE) with local and regional site visits as required.

Cognita is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers, and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.