Regional Head of Master Planning and Urban Design

Role Summary:

The Regional Head of Master Planning and Urban Design is responsible for overseeing and advancing the master planning and urban design studio within the Middle East region. This role involves managing a team of professionals, fostering creative design excellence, pursuing business development opportunities, and maintaining client relationships. The leader will play a crucial role in shaping the regional growth strategy and reputation of the business across design and implementation. This role will be expected to be a design leader within the business and represent design innovation to both internal and external stakeholders. Ensure that Digital Innovation in integrated within our delivery model keep the business at the forefront of delivery and technology.

Key Responsibilities:

1.            Practice Leadership:

• Provide visionary leadership for the master planning and urban design studio in the region.
• Define and execute a strategic plan to enhance the Studio's reputation and market presence.
• Drive innovation in design concepts, digital techniques, and approaches.
• Provides clear vision for works and people within the practice.

2.            Team Management:

• Recruit, develop, and mentor a high-performing team of urban design and support staff.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work culture that encourages creativity and professional growth.
• Set clear performance expectations and conduct regular performance evaluations.

3.            Project Management:

• Oversee and provide leadership for multiple master planning and urban design projects from initiation to completion.
• Provide leadership and support to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality standards.
• Provide guidance on design strategies, concepts, and technical solutions.

4.            Client Relationship Management:

• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships, understanding their objectives and needs.
• Act as the primary point of contact for key clients and projects within the region.
• Identify opportunities for additional services and expansion of client partnerships.
• Develop a clear business development and bidding strategy for the company to provide clear vision for future pipeline building.
• Become the face and brand for the company delivery.

5.            Business Development:

• Identify market trends, client needs, and business opportunities within the region.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive master planning business strategy.
• Prepare and present proposals, pitches, and bids for new projects.
• Understand and manage the master planning teams business needs in terms of backlog, pipeline, margin and revenue.

6.            Quality Assurance:

• Ensure that design solutions align with industry standards, regulations, and sustainability practices.
• Create a collaborative learning group to spread lessons learnt and constructive reviews of projects and delivery.
• Conduct design reviews and quality control checks on projects.
• Promote a commitment to design excellence within the practice.

7.            Market Research and Trends:

• Stay current with emerging design trends, technologies, and sustainable practices.
• Be aware of current market leading process in digital delivery and innovation strategy within the design and construction industry.
• Apply innovative approaches to urban design and landscape architecture.
• Be aware and focused on Sustainable Design Solutions.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Landscape Architecture, Urban Design or related field.
• 10-15 Years of progressive experience in master planning and integrated urban design.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client relationship-building abilities.
• Proficiency in relevant design software and tools.
• Digital understanding allowing a transformation and optimisation of
• Comprehensive knowledge of local building codes, regulations, and permitting processes.
• Proven track record in business development and winning new projects.
• A commitment to sustainable and environmentally responsible design practices.
• Sustainable Accreditation through major international or regional sustainable accreditation system.