Planning and Design Manager

JOB SUMMARY

The Planning and Design Manager is responsible for managing and directing the overall functions of the Planning and Design, Cost, QA/QC, and Land Survey Sections of the Technical Services Group. This position leads multidisciplinary teams to ensure that all projects are well-planned, cost-efficient, structurally sound, compliant with quality standards, and delivered on schedule. The role ensures accuracy in design and survey data, financial control in project costing, and effective coordination with internal departments.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES

A. PLANNING AND DESIGN MANAGEMENT

1. Assume overall responsibility for planning, coordinating, and implementing all design and engineering activities of the company's development projects.
2. Lead and supervise the preparation of subdivision plans, such as scheme layouts, site development plans, road and drainage layouts, water distribution systems, electrical plans, and engineering details.
3. Oversee the design and documentation of model houses, amenities, special projects, and other structures necessary for permits and construction.
4. Coordinate with architects and engineers in the conceptualization and finalization of design outputs, ensuring compliance with project requirements, budget constraints, and timelines.
5. Provide technical assistance and data for securing permits and approvals from national and local government agencies.
6. Support the Project Development, Marketing, and Accounts Admin Departments by providing design analyses, technical inputs, and visual materials needed for feasibility studies, permits, promotions and financing documentations.

B. COST MANAGEMENT

1. Oversee the Cost Section in preparing and monitoring cost estimates, budgets, and Bill of Quantities (BOQs) for land development and housing components.
2. Review and control project budgets, ensuring cost efficiency for civil works, utilities, and vertical structures.
3. Evaluate contractor and supplier quotations and recommend cost-effective solutions without compromising quality.
4. Collaborate with Planning and Design, Construction, Finance, and Project Development teams to align cost reporting with financial models and project timelines.
5. Provide value engineering recommendations during feasibility and design stages to enhance cost efficiency.

C. QUALITY ASSURANCE AND QUALITY CONTROL (QA/QC)

1. Oversee the establishment and implementation of design and construction quality standards, manuals, and procedures.
2. Ensure that all design outputs conform to company specifications, building codes, and industry standards.
3. Coordinate with Construction Management to address non-conformance reports and implement corrective actions.

D. LAND SURVEY AND GEODETIC OPERATIONS

1. Oversee the Land Survey Section to ensure accurate, reliable, and timely survey data collection for all company projects.
2. Validate survey results and ensure accuracy of site data used for design and layout plans.
3. Coordinate with internal departments to ensure survey data, location maps, and field measurements are accurate and properly integrated into planning and design outputs.

D. ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEADERSHIP FUNCTIONS

1. Exercise administrative control over all personnel under the Planning and Design, Cost, QA/QC, and Land Survey Sections, ensuring compliance with company rules, performance standards, and deliverables.
2. Lead regular coordination meetings to review Department performance, resolve issues, and enhance inter-departmental collaboration.
3. Identify training needs and promote continuous professional development among staff.
4. Implement systems and process improvements to streamline workflows and maintain project efficiency.
5. Collaborate closely with the Construction and Project Development departments during planning and implementation stages.
6. Present design and cost recommendations to management for approval.
7. Perform other related tasks that may be assigned by management from time to time.

JOB SPECIFICATIONS

Education: Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Architecture, Licensed Civil Engineer or Architect

Experience: At least ten (10) years in real estate development design management, or construction planning, with at least five (5) years in a supervisory or managerial capacity. Proven experience leading multidisciplinary teams (architectural, structural, cost, QA/QC, and survey).

Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of local building codes, permitting processes, and design standards.
• Proficient in design and project management tools (AutoCAD, Civil 3D, MS Project, Revit, SketchUp, etc.).
• Knowledgeable in cost control systems, BOQ preparation, and value engineering.
• Thorough understanding of real estate development processes.
• Strong leadership and project management skills
• Excellent coordination, analytical, and communication abilities
• Technical proficiency and attention to detail
• Cost consciousness and quality orientation
• Innovation and continuous improvement mindset