Senior Manager Interior Design

Position summary

The Senior Manager, Interior Design, Luxury MEA is responsible for managing and delivering interior design services across new build, renovation, and conversion projects for Marriott International’s Luxury Brands throughout the Middle East and Africa region. Reporting within the Luxury Design team, this role provides strategic design leadership, ensures brand compliance, and supports the successful execution of projects from concept through completion.

Working closely with owners, developers, consultants, hotel teams, and internal stakeholders, the Senior Manager serves as a key design representative for Marriott’s Luxury portfolio, safeguarding design excellence, operational functionality, and brand integrity across a diverse range of projects.

Core work activities

Interior design leadership
Manages the complete design process and documentation package for interior design of a hotel project commensurate with the hotel brand image of excellence in quality of design and aesthetic appeal gaining the trust and respect of both internal and external customers. Reviews and comments on interior design drawings and specifications submitted by interior design consultants within the time constraints, ensuring that the designs are brand compliant and on strategy for all areas of existing and new development hotel projects. Provides overall direction to professional design teams as to the design strategy of new and acquired properties while establishing brand standards, and operational acceptability within reasonable financial constraints. Assists operating hotels with preparing renovation plans, assisting to define scope of works and design briefs. Assesses existing properties for potential conversion to Marriott brands and prepares Property Improvement Plans. Solicits proposals, negotiates contracts, and monitors performance. Makes recommendations for development or improvement of processes. Reviews and approves mock-up rooms based on brand requirements. Performs final implementation (punch list) review to ensure compliance with brand concepts and standards. Assists (Senior) Design Director(s) in managing project budget, schedule, and personnel requirements. Supports design teams working with owner, property managers and consultants to prepare successful presentations and prepare for the Continent Design Review meeting to obtain continent executive approval. Represents the division, both internally and externally, in interior design issues. Mentors design team members to facilitate professional growth.

Financial management
Manages and works within professional fee and expense budgets.

Owner & stakeholder relations
Liaises with designers, owners, franchisees, and hotels on renovation projects; from presentation of briefs, detailed reviews of designs and standards to ensure compliance to brand strategies and standards, specifications and budget, through concept and schematic design, design development, construction and pre-opening phases. Conducts and leads onsite reviews, surveys and meetings with operations and owners.

Additional responsibilities
Complies with Marriott International Hotels Limited Regional Office policies and procedures. Performs other related tasks as assigned by management.

Candidate profile

Experience
Minimum 10 years’ experience in the design field in total, preferably in the hospitality design industry. Experience with new builds, conversions, and renovation projects. Strong background in FF&E selection and specification.

Preferred skills and knowledge
Knowledgeable about innovation and trends both in and outside of industry, with a focus upon luxury design. Strong business acumen. Problem solving and creative solution skills. Ability to build and maintain strong working relationships. Customer service focus. Ability to negotiate and be flexible when appropriate. Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities and resources. Expert written and verbal communication skills. Team-oriented. Multi-task oriented. Strong project management skills. Strong presentation skills. Understands architecture documents and contract documents. Proficient in using Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, Adobe.

Education and professional certification
Baccalaureate degree from an accredited Interior Design program preferred - equivalent industry experience will be considered. Professional accreditation and/or association membership preferred.

Additional information

Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Language requirement: High proficiency (speaking, reading, and writing) in English is required. Proficiency in Arabic is preferred.
Travel requirement: Approximately 40% business travel required throughout the Middle East and Africa region.

Right to work

At the time of application, applicants must have the legal right to work in the United Arab Emirates. Unfortunately, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship or relocation assistance.

Why join Marriott International?

Marriott International has been recognized as one of Fortune’s 100 Best Companies to Work For™ in Europe 2025 by Great Place to Work®. This is a reflection of our people-first culture, commitment to wellbeing, and collaborative workplace. This accolade joins a growing list of regional honors, reinforcing our dedication to creating an exceptional environment where associates thrive.

At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.

Marriott International is the world’s largest hotel company, with more brands, more hotels and more opportunities for associates to grow and succeed. Be where you can do your best work, begin your purpose, belong to an amazing global team, and become the best version of you.