Senior Manager – Projects

GMG is a global well-being company retailing, distributing and manufacturing a portfolio of leading international and home-grown brands across sport, everyday goods, health and beauty, properties and logistics sectors. Under the ownership and management of the Baker family for over 45 years, GMG is a valued partner of choice for the world's most successful and respected brands in the well-being sector. Working across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia, GMG has introduced more than 120 brands across 12 countries. These include notable home-grown brands such as Sun & Sand Sports, Dropkick, Supercare Pharmacy, Farm Fresh, Klassic, and international brands like Nike, Columbia, Converse, Timberland, Vans, Mama Sita's, and McCain.Role OverviewThe Senior Manager – Projects (Fashion & Sports Retail) is responsible for leading the planning, design, execution, and successful delivery of retail store development projects across the GCC region. The role involves managing multiple simultaneous store builds, renovations, and brand expansions in malls, street retail, and travel retail.The position requires strong architectural expertise, GCC regulatory knowledge, and the ability to translate global brand guidelines into regionally compliant and operationally efficient store environments. The Senior Manager ensures all projects are delivered to brand specification, on time, within budget, and in accordance with UAE/GCC statutory requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesTranslate international brand guidelines into regionally compliant, buildable architectural and MEP drawings.Lead design coordination with global brand teams to ensure consistency in store identity, VM standards, lighting, and materials.Review and approve design packages, technical drawings, fixture specifications, and signage/shopfront details.Ensure compliance with mall criteria, landlord manuals, sustainability standards, and GCC building regulations.Manage construction and fit out phases to ensure adherence to approved designs and quality standards.Conduct frequent site visits to monitor progress, safety compliance, and workmanship quality.Oversee procurement and logistics of brand fixtures, lighting packages, and specialized millwork.Ensure smooth handover of stores to Retail Operations, VM, and IT teams.Ensure all projects comply with GCC authority requirements including Dubai Municipality, Civil Defense, TECOM, ADCD, RTA, and other relevant bodies.Coordinate with legal, procurement, and finance teams for contract reviews, approvals, and adherence to governance standards.Maintain compliance with company policies, statutory regulations, and HSE requirements.Manage relationships with mall developers, landlords, global brand principals, external consultants, and contractors.Collaborate cross-functionally with Retail Operations, VM, IT, Marketing, Supply Chain, and Finance teams.Ensure timely submission and approval of all authority documents and landlord NOCs.Monitor project budgets, cash flows, milestone adherence, and resource utilization.Prepare and present detailed progress reports, dashboards, and recommendations to senior leadership and PMO.Identify opportunities for cost optimization, value engineering, and efficiency enhancement.Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Project Managers, Engineers, and Coordinators.Set clear objectives, conduct performance reviews, and promote a culture of accountability and collaboration.Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and development of internal project management competencies.Key Skills & ExperienceBachelor's degree in Architecture (mandatory).Project Management/ PMP, or Business Administration (preferred).10+ years of experience in retail project management within the GCC.Minimum 5 years delivering Fashion/Sports Retail stores for international brands.Strong experience managing mall projects, flagship stores, high-density fit-outs, and roll-out programs.PMP, PRINCE2, PMI CAPM (preferred).LEED or similar sustainability certification (advantageous).Agile/Scrum certification (advantageous).#J-18808-Ljbffr