Head of Design Section

Department: Engineering Projects & Facilities Department
Location: UAE

Iris Executives is a leading Emiratisation-focused executive search firm established in 2010. We specialise in identifying and placing high-calibre UAE National talent into strategic leadership roles across government, semi-government, and private sector organisations.

We are currently supporting a leading government entity in the search for a Head of Design to join its Engineering Projects & Facilities Department.

The Head of Design will lead the architectural design function for the entity's building projects, ensuring that designs align with operational requirements, technical standards, and sustainability principles.

The role focuses on reviewing building designs, coordinating with engineering consultants, and ensuring that project designs meet stakeholder needs before moving into construction.

The successful candidate will also contribute to the evaluation of technical proposals, oversee design quality, and ensure that projects comply with safety, environmental, and architectural standards.

This position plays an important role in supporting the delivery of renovation and new-build projects for a portfolio of government facilities both locally and internationally.

• Review architectural designs, drawings, and technical specifications for building projects to ensure alignment with operational and functional requirements.
• Coordinate with engineering consultants to refine design submissions and ensure compliance with approved standards and specifications.
• Oversee architectural modifications and technical design updates during project development.

• Translate operational requirements from internal stakeholders into architectural design requirements for consultants and project teams.
• Ensure that design packages are delivered within required timelines and meet the entity's technical, environmental, and safety standards.
• Support the preparation of design methodologies, technical guidelines, and documentation for engineering projects.

• Coordinate with engineering consultants, contractors, and project stakeholders during the design phase of building projects.
• Participate in the evaluation of technical and financial proposals submitted by consulting firms and contractors.
• Provide technical advice on design specifications and materials used in building projects.

• Monitor architectural design implementation during project execution and support the resolution of technical issues related to design changes or modifications.
• Participate in initial and final project inspections to ensure that completed works comply with approved design plans and specifications.

• Supervise and guide team members within the design function, ensuring effective delivery of responsibilities and operational tasks.
• Provide mentoring, training, and knowledge transfer to team members to support capability development.
• Promote collaboration, innovation, and adherence to organisational policies and standards.

The ideal candidate will be an experienced engineering or architectural professional with hands-on exposure to building design and project environments.

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to translate operational needs into design requirements and work effectively with consultants and stakeholders involved in building projects.

Key requirements include:

• UAE National
• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related discipline
• Experience working on building design projects
• Ability to translate operational needs into architectural or design requirements
• Experience working with engineering consultants or external design offices
• Strong coordination and stakeholder engagement skills
• Ability to review design submissions and ensure alignment with project objectives

Project management exposure is considered a plus, but not mandatory.

The organisation offers a comprehensive government employment package including:

• Competitive government benefits and pension scheme
• Family medical coverage
• Annual leave and public holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• The opportunity to contribute to strategic national projects

Full compensation details will be discussed confidentially with shortlisted candidates.

Interested candidates are invited to contact Iris Executives to request the candidate Data Form and submit their CV for confidential consideration.

All applications will be handled with strict confidentiality.