Project Planning & Development - Exec to HOD

Project Planning & Development (Architecture)

Project Planning & Development with an architectural background is responsible for leading the planning, design, and development of residential, commercial, and mixed -use projects. This role combines design quality, regulatory compliance, and sustainability with practical delivery, ensuring projects are completed within agreed scope, budget, and timeline. You will work closely with internal teams and external partners, oversee the design process, and provide strategic direction from early concept to completion.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Planning & Coordination

• Lead the overall project planning phase, ensuring alignment with company strategies, budgets, and timelines.
  
• Develop project programmes including key milestones, deliverables, and resource plans.
  
• Coordinate with clients, consultants, and contractors to drive smooth project execution and timely decision -making.
  

2. Design Development & Review

• Oversee conceptual, schematic, and detailed design stages for assigned projects.
  
• Review and endorse design proposals, ensuring compliance with authorities’ requirements, technical standards, and project briefs.
  
• Work with internal teams and external consultants to optimise layouts and designs for functionality, aesthetics, buildability, and sustainability.
  

3. Feasibility Studies & Analysis

• Carry out feasibility and planning studies to assess site potential, planning/zoning parameters, and development options.
  
• Prepare reports covering design scenarios, high -level cost estimates, and key project risks.
  
• Recommend strategies to improve viability, manage risks, and enhance project value.
  

4. Regulatory Compliance & Approvals

• Ensure all designs and project documents comply with local building by -laws, planning guidelines, and relevant regulations.
  
• Liaise with authorities and statutory bodies to obtain planning, building, and related approvals on time.
  

5. Budget & Cost Management

• Work with QS / cost consultants to establish and monitor project budgets.
  
• Review design and specification choices from a cost and value perspective.
  
• Propose value -engineering options to achieve cost efficiency without compromising safety, quality, or brand standards.
  

6. Team Leadership & Management

• Lead and mentor the project planning and development team, setting clear expectations and priorities.
  
• Coordinate work across internal departments (design, contracts, project, sales/marketing, etc.) to support project objectives.
  
• Identify skill gaps within the team and support training, coaching, and knowledge sharing.
  

7. Sustainability & Innovation

• Integrate sustainable design principles, green building features, and practical ESG initiatives into projects.
  
• Explore and promote innovative materials, technologies, and design approaches that improve performance and user experience.
  

8. Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the main point of contact between the company, clients, consultants, and contractors on planning and design matters.
  
• Prepare and present project updates, design proposals, and technical inputs to management and external stakeholders.
  
• Manage expectations and handle feedback or issues in a timely and professional manner.
  

9. Quality Assurance & Risk Management

• Implement design and documentation review processes to ensure deliverables meet company and client standards.
  
• Identify potential project risks (design, cost, programme, regulatory) early and work with the team to put mitigation plans in place.
  

10. Post‑Project Evaluation

• Lead post‑completion reviews to evaluate project outcomes against original objectives.
  
• Capture lessons learned and best practices, and channel feedback into improving future project planning and design processes.
  

Job Requirements

Education & Experience

• Master’s degree in Architecture or equivalent professional qualification.
  
• Minimum 8–10 years of experience in architecture, project planning, or related fields, with at least 3 years in a managerial or team‑lead role.
  
• Experience with residential / commercial / mixed‑use development projects is an advantage.
  

Technical Skills

• Proficient in architectural design and documentation tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and/or SketchUp; familiarity with project management tools is an added advantage.
  
• Good understanding of construction methods, building services coordination, authority submission processes, building codes, and sustainability/green building principles.
  

Leadership & Communication

• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to guide multidisciplinary teams.
  
• Confident in handling discussions with clients, consultants, authorities, and contractors.
  
• Able to manage differing views, resolve conflicts, and drive alignment towards project goals.
  

Analytical & Problem‑Solving Skills

• Strong analytical skills to assess planning options, development feasibility, and design solutions.
  
• Structured and proactive in anticipating issues, troubleshooting design and coordination challenges, and making balanced recommendations.