Studio Director

Company Description
Egis is an international player active in architecture, consulting, construction engineering and mobility services. We create and operate intelligent infrastructures and buildings that respond to the climate emergency and contribute to more balanced, sustainable and resilient territorial development. Operating in 100 countries, Egis puts the expertise of its 19,500 employees at the service of its clients and develops cutting-edge innovations accessible to all projects. Through its wide range of activities, Egis is a key player in the collective organisation of society and the living environment of citizens all over the world.

With 3,500 employees across 8 countries in the Middle East, Egis has delivered over 700 complex development projects, stimulating economic growth and enhancing quality of life. Ranked among the top ten firms in the Middle East by Engineering News Record (ENR), Egis is committed to sustainable development. The Group's operations in the Middle East are built on strategic acquisitions and a deep understanding of local market conditions. Egis' long history of providing comprehensive engineering, consulting, and project management services makes it a trusted partner for regional governments, investors, and developers.

Job Description
The main duties of the Project Director include, but are not limited to:

• Leadership & Studio Management
  • Provide overall leadership and direction for the architectural studio's daily operations, ensuring a seamless workflow across all architectural projects.
  • Mentor and inspire a team of architects, designers, and support staff, fostering a culture of creativity, innovation and excellence.
  • Establish and implement studio processes, procedures and best practices to ensure efficient project execution.
  • Provide strategic direction for the studio's design vision, ensuring alignment with company goals and industry trends.
  • Manage resource allocation, ensuring the right talent is assigned to projects based on their skills and project requirements.
  • Oversee recruitment, training and professional development of studio staff.
  • Foster a collaborative team environment, providing guidance and support to project teams.
  • Guide architects, senior architects, design managers, associates & directors in achieving KPIs, quality objectives, and performance review.
• Strategic Planning
  • Develop and implement strategic plans to achieve the studio's business objectives, including growth, profitability, and market positioning.
  • Manage the studio's finances, including budgeting, forecasting and ensuring projects are delivered within financial constraints.
  • Help develop pricing strategies for architectural services and ensure competitive pricing while maintaining profitability.
• Client Relations & Business Development
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, consultants and contractors, understanding their needs and ensuring their expectations are met or exceeded.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for major projects, ensuring client satisfaction and managing expectations.
  • Lead client presentations and design workshops to effectively communicate design concepts and project progress.
  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including networking, proposal development, and presentations to potential clients.
  • Support the acquisition of new projects by cultivating relationships within the UAE's architectural and real estate sectors.
• Design Oversight
  • Ensure the highest standards of design quality and innovation across all projects, providing creative direction and guidance to the design team.
  • Supervise the design process from conceptual development through to final implementation, ensuring high-quality, innovative and practical design solutions.
  • Ensure that designs comply with local regulations, building codes, sustainability requirements, and client expectations.
  • Review and approve design documentation, including drawings, models, presentations and specifications, to maintain design consistency and quality.
  • Conduct regular design reviews and site visits to monitor project progress and resolve any design-related issues or challenges.
  • Promote sustainable design practices and ensure the studio adheres to green building standards (e.g., LEED, Estidama).
• Project Oversight & Delivery
  • Oversee the management of multiple projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality.
  • Manage project delivery timelines, milestones, and budget forecasts in coordination with project managers and other departments.
  • Track the performance and financial health of projects, ensuring that all deliverables are met, and resources are used efficiently.
  • Implement risk management strategies to address potential issues that could impact project delivery.
  • Provide guidance on the coordination of technical and design teams to ensure the successful execution of complex projects.
  • Ensure all projects comply with local building codes, regulations, and standards, managing the submission of necessary documentation for approvals.
  • Implement and maintain quality control processes to ensure the consistency and excellence of design and project delivery.
• Financial Management
  • Oversee the financial performance of the studio, including budgeting, forecasting and financial reporting, ensuring projects are delivered within budget and profitability targets are met.
  • Approve studio expenditures and monitor costs associated with project delivery, ensuring that projects stay within budget.
• Industry Networking
  • Stay abreast of the latest design trends, technological advancements and market opportunities within the architecture industry.
  • Represent the firm at industry events, conferences and forums, enhancing the firm's visibility and reputation.
  • Promote the studio's work through award submissions, publications and design exhibitions.
  • Foster relationships with industry influencers, potential partners and collaborators.

Qualifications

• Minimum 20 years of experience
• Professional degree (Masters or Bachelor's) in Architecture from an accredited program