Job Requisition ID: 171982
Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world’s most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim Group’s entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organization to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate.
By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day

JOB-SPECIFIC SKILLS:

• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Experience in managing external design consultants.
• High attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Strategic thinker with a strong understanding of interior design principles.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to influence without authority.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND KNOWLEDGE:

• Bachelor’s degree in interior design or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Prior experience in a real estate development or design & build environment is strongly preferred.
• Proven experience in a client-side role managing design processed from concept to completion.
• Proven experience in retail design more specifically and a focus on large scale projects.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE:

15+ years of experience in interior design, with a strong portfolio in residential, commercial, or hospitality projects and at least 5 years in a client/developer-side design management role.

Familiarity with design standards, codes and practices.

• LEED, WELL, or other sustainability-related accreditation.
• Proficiency in design software: AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong understanding of FF&E, materials, finishes, and space planning.
• Familiarity with local codes, sustainability standards, and regulatory requirements
• Experience working with hotel operators, luxury brands, or retail tenants is a plus.

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE:

In this role, you will be responsible for managing and delivering the design scope of high-profile residential and commercial projects within the Group’s development portfolio. Acting as the client representative, the role ensures design quality, functionality, and innovation while balancing budget, program, and commercial objectives. The candidate will be responsible for leading the interior design efforts, ensuring that interior spaces are functional, aesthetically appealing, and aligned with the project’s objectives and client expectations.
The Senior Design Manager will drive the design process across multiple stages — from feasibility and concept to construction — ensuring alignment with corporate vision, market positioning, and end-user expectations. The purpose of this role is to ensure that each project meets the highest design standards, enhances the user experience, and contributes to the overall success of the real estate development portfolio