Director (Architecture)

Job Title: Director Architecture & Business Development

Location: Middle East (UAE / KSA / Qatar preferred)

Sector: Mixed-Use, Hospitality, Commercial, High Rise, Residential Developments

Reporting to: Managing Director / Regional Partner

Position Overview:

We are seeking a highly experienced Director with an architectural background and a strong portfolio in mixed-use, hospitality, and residential developments. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of business development, client relationship management, and work-winning in the Middle East market. This role blends design leadership with commercial acumen, responsible for driving strategic growth, securing high-profile projects, and expanding the firm's footprint in the region.

Key Responsibilities:

Business Development & Work Winning

• Lead business development initiatives focused on mixed-use, hospitality, and residential sectors.
• Identify new market opportunities and develop strategies to secure major projects across the Middle East (UAE, KSA, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain).
• Build and maintain senior-level relationships with developers, investors, government entities, consultants, and contractors.
• Develop winning proposals, lead bids, and negotiate contracts in collaboration with internal teams.
• Represent the firm at industry events, exhibitions, and conferences to strengthen market presence.

Design Leadership & Project Oversight

• Provide design leadership and oversight on key projects, ensuring alignment with client vision and company standards.
• Guide design teams through concept to delivery stages, balancing creativity with commercial viability.
• Oversee design quality, innovation, and technical excellence across projects.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including urban design, interiors, and engineering partners.

Strategic & Operational Leadership

• Contribute to the firms regional growth strategy and annual business planning.
• Mentor and develop mid to senior-level architects and designers.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and regulatory developments in the GCC.
• Collaborate closely with finance and operations teams to achieve revenue and profitability targets.

Key Qualifications & Experience:

• Degree in Architecture (Masters preferred); RIBA, AIA, or equivalent professional accreditation.
• Minimum 15+ years of experience with significant exposure to mixed-use, hospitality, and residential developments.
• Extensive portfolio of successfully delivered projects in the Middle East.
• Proven track record of winning large-scale projects, securing new clients, and driving business growth.
• Strong design and technical background with an understanding of regional codes, regulations, and market dynamics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Existing client network in the GCC real estate and development sector is highly desirable.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.

Preferred Attributes:

• Entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on strategic growth.
• Strong presentation skills and ability to lead client engagements.
• Collaborative leader who can inspire and mentor design teams.
• Fluency in English