Retail Design Manager

Roles and responsibilities

The Design Manager is responsible for enhancing the attractiveness and functionality of retail spaces across operational malls in the MENA region. This includes reviewing tenant design submissions, managing refurbishment of units during lease renewals, and maintaining the Excellence Center and materials library. The role requires balancing innovative design trends with practical solutions to ensure malls remain competitive, customer-centric, and aligned with global retail standards.

The Design Manager will report to the Head of Retail Design & Delivery at weekly meetings or as and when required.

What you will do:

• Tenant Design Review & Approval
• Unit Refurbishment & Renewal
• Design Standards & Innovation
• Work closely with the Landlords Retail Delivery Team (RDT) to ensure compliance with the Landlords design criteria and Tenants are working within agreed milestone specific to concept and detailed design submittals.
• Monitor design and construction progress as fitout continues and Troubleshoot potential design, construction and programme issues.
• Excellence Center & Materials Library.
• Designing Store Layouts: Developing and creating layouts that maximize the use of space, guide customer flow, and align with the brand’s image and objectives. This includes designing entrances, displays, product placement, and customer interaction areas.
• Creating Visual Displays: Designing in-store displays that highlight products, seasonal promotions, or special collections, ensuring they align with the brand's theme and attract attention.
• Product Presentation: Ensuring that products are displayed in a way that is visually appealing and encourages sales, while considering product size, shape, color, and style.
• Stakeholder Coordination
  

Required skills to be successful:

Behavioural Competencies :

• Analytical Thinking
• Data-Driven Decision Making
• Communication and Presentation Skills
• Strategic Planning
• Attention to Detail
• Collaborative Teamwork

Desired candidate profile

Minimum Qualifications and Knowledge: Degree or equivalent level of education in Interior Design or Architecture, dependent on previous experience and aptitude.

Minimum Experience: Minimum of 8 years of experience in retail or commercial design, including refurbishment projects, with 3+ years in a managerial role.

Job-Specific Skills:

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills to influence stakeholders effectively.
• Creative mindset with a keen eye for detail and innovation.
• Organize and prioritize work
• Perform under pressure
• Adapt quickly to changing circumstances
• Work effectively within a team
• Expertise in design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Proficient in materials selection, sustainability practices, and construction methodologies.
• Familiarity with MENA-specific building codes and regulations.