Senior Design Manager

Description

Zutari: Co-creating an impactful environment

Zutari is a well-established, management-owned multidisciplinary firm with more than 90 years of experience. As human-centred consultants and advisors, we are trusted by clients, partners, communities, and stakeholders across Africa and the Middle East.

We co-create design solutions that positively impact people’s lives. Zutari values inclusion and the power of diverse, talented teams, believing that people need other people to succeed.

What kind of talent do we pursue? 

We look for individuals with the right attitude and a positive mindset, people motivated by doing the right thing, getting things done, and sharing a sense of urgency. We value those who influence teams and communities, think differently, collaborate naturally, and help co-create meaningful opportunities and a lasting legacy.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to join our Abu Dhabi team. In this role, you will lead the design delivery of leisure, entertainment, and large-scale building projects, working closely with multi-disciplinary teams to drive innovative, sustainable, and buildable solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design process from concept through detailed design to construction documentation.
• Coordinate and integrate architectural, structural, and MEP disciplines to deliver fully aligned solutions.
• Oversee and review all design deliverables, drawings, and specifications to ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance with project requirements.
• Manage design schedules, budgets, and risks, providing clear reporting to senior leadership and clients.
• Facilitate design workshops, resolve technical challenges, and support value engineering initiatives.
• Maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships, securing timely approvals and ensuring alignment throughout the project lifecycle.
• Promote innovative and sustainable design practices, aligned with Zutari’s values and project aspirations.
  
  
  

• Minimum 10 years’ experience, including at least 5 years in design delivery and 2 years in a Design Manager or similar leadership role.
• Educational background in Structural or Architectural Engineering (preferred).
• Proven track record in leisure, entertainment, or large-scale building projects.
• Experience working with major consultancies or leading developers in Abu Dhabi.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project coordination skills.
• Proficiency in BIM platforms and digital design tools is an advantage.