Senior Design Manager

Design Leadership:

Lead the design process from concept to execution for large-scale real estate projects (over 100,000 m²), including residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments (real estate development company experience).

Ensure alignment between project design, client expectations, and business goals.

Define and maintain the architectural vision of the project, ensuring alignment with commercial goals, design quality, and buildability.

Coordinate with architects, consultants, and other design partners to develop innovative and functional designs.

Project Management:

Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring they are delivered within scope, timeline, and budget.

Develop and manage project schedules, design deliverables, and milestones for large-scale real estate projects (over 100,000 m²).

Anticipate potential design risks and develop mitigation strategies.

Plan, organize, and supervise the workload and performance of internal architects, designers, and external consultants.

Stakeholder Collaboration:

Collaborate with internal teams (Development, Construction, Sales, Marketing) to align design with overall project objectives.

Present design proposals to senior management and external stakeholders, securing approvals at various project stages.

Manage communication between architects, engineers, contractors, and clients (business units and other project stakeholders).

Regulatory Compliance and Approvals:

Ensure that all designs comply with local codes, regulations, and zoning requirements.

Liaise with government authorities to obtain necessary permits and approvals.

Design Quality Control:

Review and approve architectural drawings and specifications for accuracy and completeness.

Monitor construction activities to ensure the design intent is maintained throughout the project lifecycle.

Lead design audits and recommend improvements based on best practices and lessons learned from past projects (shop drawing reviews, approvals, and site coordination between the Developer, third-party designers, third-party contractors, consultants, etc.).

Budget and Cost Management:

Work closely with the Cost Management team to ensure designs are aligned with project budgets.

Value-engineer design solutions without compromising quality or aesthetics.

Demonstrated experience in feasibility–design–development budget–construction budget alignment processes.

Evaluate materials, technical solutions, and design alternatives based on a cost–quality–schedule balance.

Innovation and Sustainability:

Integrate sustainable design principles and innovative technologies to enhance the value and functionality of projects.

Stay updated on architectural trends, construction techniques, and design innovations to maintain a competitive edge.

Educational Background:

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.

Additional certifications in project management, sustainable design, or real estate development are a plus.

Experience:

15+ years of experience in architectural design, with at least 5 years in a managerial role.

Demonstrated experience in developments of 100,000 m² or more within real estate development companies.

Experience delivering large-scale projects within real estate development companies, as well as equivalent large-scale project experience in reputable construction firms, is highly preferred.

Strong background in real estate development projects, including residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments.

Proven experience in leading design teams and collaborating with multidisciplinary professionals.

Technical Skills:

Proficiency in design software (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, or similar).

Solid understanding of construction methods, building materials, and project management tools.

Knowledge:

Thorough knowledge of local building codes, zoning laws, and industry regulations.

Familiarity with sustainability frameworks and value engineering practices.

Soft Skills:

Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities with a detail-oriented mindset.

Ability to manage time efficiently and handle multiple projects simultaneously under pressure.

Other Requirements:

Availability to travel to project sites as needed.

Fluency in English and Azerbaijani or Turkish is desired.