Design Project Manager - Bringing Creativity to Life with Efficiency
About the Role:
We are seeking a passionate and experienced Design Project Manager to join our team and lead the successful execution of exciting design projects from inception to completion. You will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the project, from understanding client needs to managing delivery within budget and timeframe.
Responsibilities:
- Client Relationship Management:Collaborate with clients to clearly define their design aspirations and translate them into a formal design brief.
Facilitate seamless communication between the client and internal design team, ensuring client expectations are met and exceeded.
Proactively manage client expectations and navigate through any changes or challenges efficiently.
- Project Planning & Execution:Develop comprehensive project plans using MS Project or similar project management software, outlining key milestones, timelines, and resource allocation.
Conduct regular meetings with client and internal teams to ensure clear communication, address design queries, and maintain project momentum.
Coordinate effectively with internal designers, landlords, architects, engineers, and other stakeholders involved in the project.
- Procurement & Tendering:Identify and recommend qualified consultants to join the project team through a defined RFP process.
Assist the client in the tendering process, responding to technical queries, and clarifying project requirements.
Evaluate tender submissions, providing well-informed recommendations to the client for informed decision-making.
- Construction & Handover:Facilitate regular stakeholder meetings throughout the construction phase, ensuring open communication and alignment.
Document meeting minutes for future reference and action tracking.
Manage client change requests, translating them into clear instructions for the project team.
Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress, oversee quality control, and address any logistical concerns.
Manage testing and commissioning procedures for project readiness.
Coordinate final inspections with landlord, consultants and contractors to ensure project compliance.
Prepare punch-lists and diligently follow up with contractors to rectify deficiencies.
Manage project close-out, including final accounts, handover documentation (as-built drawings, O&M manuals), and training sessions.
Oversee reinstatement and move management activities, ensuring a smooth transition to project completion.
Qualifications & Skills:
- Minimum of 5 years of experience managing design projects in the Retail/Corporate industry. Junior candidates with demonstrably strong skills and relevant experience in design management may be considered.
- Proven track record of successfully delivering complex design projects on time and within budget.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills in both written and verbal formats.
- Strong organizational and time management abilities.
- Proven ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and adapt to changing circumstances while maintaining deadlines.
- Proficiency in design visualization software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit), project management software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera), and communication tools (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite). Knowledge of BIM (Building Information Modelling) systems a plus.
- Experience with design procurement and tendering processes.
- Keen understanding of design constructability, able to identify potential constructability issues early in the design process and collaborate with designers to find solutions. Experience working with contractors and understanding how design decisions impact buildability and cost.
- Working knowledge of construction methods, materials, and regulations relevant to the industry. Ability to oversee construction activities, identify potential quality issues, and implement corrective actions promptly.
- PMP certification and/or LEED accreditation highly preferred. Demonstrates commitment to professional development and best practices in project management and sustainability.
