Architecture Director

Architecture Director | Atelier DPJ

Location: Dubai Design District (d3), Building 4, Office 301, Dubai, UAE

(Note: Regional coordination with Doha, Qatar branch) Position Type: Full-Time / Executive Leadership

Industry: Architecture, Urban Planning & high-end Interior Design

Position Overview

Atelier DPJ is seeking a visionary Architecture Director to lead our elite design studio in the Dubai Design District (d3). As a cornerstone of our Middle Eastern operations, you will be responsible for defining the architectural language of our most prestigious projects across the UAE and Qatar.

We are looking for a "design-first" leader who possesses the rare combination of avant-garde creative thinking and the operational rigor required to manage complex, multi-million dollar developments. You will oversee a multidisciplinary team of architects and designers, ensuring that every project reflects Atelier DPJ’s commitment to sustainability, authenticity, and structural integrity.

Core Responsibilities

• Design Vision & Strategy: Lead the conceptual development of large-scale architectural projects, from luxury residential and commercial high-rises to cultural landmarks.
• Studio Leadership: Manage and mentor a high-performance design team at our d3 headquarters, fostering a culture of technical mastery and radical innovation.
• Project Lifecycle Oversight: Direct all phases of the architectural process, including schematic design, design development, and construction documentation.
• Cross-Border Coordination: Act as the primary technical liaison between our Dubai and Doha offices, ensuring seamless project delivery across the GCC.
• Operational Management: Utilize advanced Excel automation (macros, XLOOKUP) and BIM software to track project milestones, resource allocation, and studio profitability.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Present high-level design concepts to government entities, private developers, and international investors on the 3rd floor of Building 4.
• Sustainability & Compliance: Ensure all designs exceed local building codes (Dubai Municipality/DDA) and international green building standards (LEED/Estidama).
• Vendor & Consultant Management: Oversee relationships with specialized MEP, structural, and landscape consultants to ensure holistic design integration.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: Master’s degree in Architecture (M.Arch) or a related field.
• Experience: 12+ years of professional experience in architecture, with at least 6 years in a directorial or senior management role within the Middle East (UAE/Qatar experience is mandatory).
• Technical Mastery: Expert proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and Rhino. Deep understanding of ERP-integrated project management (D365 or similar).
• Language: Professional fluency in English is mandatory. Arabic or French proficiency is a significant advantage for our international clientele.
• Licensure: Registered Architect (RIBA, AIA, or equivalent) with the ability to secure local municipality approvals.
• Mindset: A "work-hard, play-hard" philosophy—someone who values professional excellence as the primary funding mechanism for global travel and personal exploration.

What We Offer

• Premier Location: A modern, creative studio in Dubai Design District (d3), Building 4—the pulse of the region’s design industry.
• Creative Freedom: The mandate to shape the skyline of the world’s fastest-growing cities.
• Compensation: Highly competitive executive salary, performance-based "Design Excellence" bonuses, housing allowance, and annual travel passage.
• Culture: A results-oriented environment that respects the "slow-burn" of authentic design while demanding high-velocity output.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: QAR35,000.00 per month

Work Location: In person