Design Studio Manager Full Time

Company Description The Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) – Abu Dhabi, established in 2019, leads the development of urban living and transportation across the Emirate. DMT drives strategic initiatives that enhance quality of life for residents and visitors while aligning with Abu Dhabi’s vision for innovative and sustainable urban planning. The department focuses on building integrated, future-ready cities supported by efficient transport networks and resilient infrastructure. Team members contribute to shaping a progressive urban landscape that balances growth, sustainability, and community well-being.

Role Description The Design Studio Manager will oversee the day-to-day operations of the design studio, ensuring high-quality delivery of design concepts, visual materials, and project documentation that support DMT’s urban planning and transport initiatives. This full-time, on-site role based in Al Ain involves managing a multidisciplinary design team, coordinating workloads, and setting priorities to meet project timelines and standards. The role includes collaborating closely with internal stakeholders and external partners to understand requirements, translate briefs into effective design solutions, and ensure alignment with DMT guidelines and objectives. The Design Studio Manager will lead project planning within the studio, monitor progress, manage resources, and provide regular status updates to senior leadership. Responsibilities also include fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, mentoring team members, supporting customer-focused solutions, and ensuring consistent, professional communication with all project participants.

Qualifications

• Strong Communication skills, including the ability to present ideas clearly, facilitate discussions, and collaborate effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated Customer Service orientation, with experience translating stakeholder needs into practical design solutions and maintaining positive, professional relationships.
• Proven Team Leadership capabilities, including mentoring, performance management, and creating an inclusive, high-performing team culture in a design or project environment.
• Experience in Sales or stakeholder engagement related to design services, including pitching concepts, gaining buy-in, and influencing decision-makers.
• Solid Project Management skills, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and coordinating multidisciplinary design deliverables.
• Relevant bachelor’s degree in design, architecture, urban planning, engineering, or a related field; advanced degree or professional certifications are an advantage.
• Proficiency with design and collaboration tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, CAD/BIM platforms, project management software) and familiarity with design standards and best practices.
• Experience working in urban development, architecture, transport, or government/municipal projects, preferably within the GCC or an equivalent context.
• Ability to work on-site in Al Ain, manage multiple concurrent projects, and adapt to evolving priorities in a fast-paced environment.