Landscape Design Manager
Position Description – Design Manager This role will lead and deliver Landscape Architecture, Urban Design and Master Planning projects while providing senior design leadership across the studio. The Design Manager will work closely with the Design Director as a key design lead within the studio. This role is highly client-facing and will involve managing projects independently while also supporting the design integrity and coordination of other projects across the studio. The position will represent the studio in client engagement and business development, while guiding senior team members in strengthening their design leadership and client management skills. The key tasks for your role include: Client Management & Coordination – Act as a key client interface, maintaining strong relationships and ensuring clear communication with clients, consultants and project stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle. Project Leadership – Lead and deliver projects independently from proposal through to construction. Develop project programmes, manage resources and coordinate with internal teams, clients and consultants to ensure successful project delivery. Design Leadership – Work closely with the Design Director and Seniors to establish and maintain a strong design vision, narrative and story for projects. Guide teams to ensure the design intent is clearly developed and protected throughout all stages of the project. Design Oversight – Provide strategic design input and review across multiple projects within the studio, ensuring consistency, quality and alignment with the studio’s design approach. Reports, Presentations & Communication – Lead the preparation of high-quality design presentations, reports and client submissions, clearly communicating the design vision and project narrative. Team Mentorship – Support and mentor Senior Landscape Architects and other design team members, guiding them in design development, presentation skills, client engagement and professional growth. Key Attributes We're looking for a confident, proactive design leader who brings energy, creativity and commercial awareness to the studio. - Confident & Assertive Communicator – An engaging, articulate presenter who can communicate design narratives, sell a vision and confidently manage client expectations. - Natural Leader & Decision Maker – Takes ownership, makes informed decisions and drives projects forward with confidence and accountability. - Design Passion & Experience – Strong Landscape Architecture background with proven project experience in the UAE/GCC and a genuine passion for design excellence. - Proactive & Solutions-Focused – An action-oriented individual who anticipates challenges, negotiates solutions and gets things done. - Collaborative & Adaptable – Thrives in a creative, fast-paced studio with a lean management structure, open communication and minimal bureaucracy. Essential Requirements - Proven Landscape Architecture experience within the UAE/GCC. - Must meet UAE employment visa eligibility requirements. - Must be available to attend an in-person interview at our Abu Dhabi studio. - Full-time, studio-based position in Abu Dhabi. Interested? Let's Talk! If you're ready to take ownership, influence design and make a real impact within an independent, collaborative landscape design studio, we'd love to hear from you. Send your CV to studio@aperturedesignstudio.com