Senior Design Manager (M3)

Position status: This opportunity is for a secured role that is due to commence in April subject to approval. If you would like to be considered as we progress with this position, please click to apply.

Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.

The project:

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the successful delivery of world-class assets supporting major sporting events, including the development of multiple stadiums. Mace is at the forefront of this landmark program with a highly motivated client organization and seeks results-driven professionals to join our exceptional teams, driving excellence at every stage of these high-profile projects.

Role Purpose:

The FIFA Stadium Expert serves as the single point of accountability and subject matter authority for all FIFA and World Cup requirements across the Stadium Program. The role provides authoritative interpretation, assurance, and strategic guidance on FIFA regulations, hosting standards, and compliance pathways while working closely with the client, the World Cup Authority, FIFA, and all consultant and delivery teams. It ensures that all stadiums and related facilities are planned, designed, delivered, and operated in full alignment with FIFA expectations, while effectively managing risk, cost, programme, and legacy outcomes.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Act as the primary interface with FIFA, the World Cup Authority and the client by leading all engagements, reviews, workshops, submissions, and providing clear positions on acceptability, derogations, and risks.
• Own and manage all FIFA requirements and translate them into clear actions for design, construction, overlay, operations, safety, security, broadcast, media, hospitality, and fan experience.
• Define and deliver the FIFA compliance strategy and roadmap, including preparation and QA of all compliance reports, reviews, dashboards, and submission packs.
• Provide programme‑wide assurance on FIFA compliance status, key risks, mitigation, and required trade‑offs between permanent works and temporary/overlay solutions.
• Oversee technical integration by coordinating with design, engineering, overlay, safety/security, commercial, and procurement teams; review and challenge proposals to ensure FIFA alignment and value.
• Advise client leadership and senior stakeholders on FIFA strategy, decision‑making, approvals, and legacy considerations, ensuring compliance without unnecessary long‑term cost.

You’ll need to have:

• Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Sports Venue Design, Project Management, or related discipline (professional accreditation/FIFA‑related credentials desirable).
• Extensive hands‑on experience with FIFA World Cup stadiums or major event venues across design, delivery, or operations.
• Proven engagement with FIFA, Local Organising Committees, or World Cup authorities, with strong understanding of FIFA stadium standards and approval processes.
• Programme-level experience managing multiple stadiums/venues, balancing compliance, risk, cost, and legacy outcomes.
• Strong technical knowledge across stadium design, construction, overlay, safety, security, broadcast, media, and operations, with ability to interpret complex regulations.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, credible under pressure, commercially aware, collaborative, and confident to challenge.

Our values

Safety first - Going home safe and well: You will champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in your team and local health and safety rules or regulations of the work you’re involved with.

Client focus - Deliver on our promise: You will lead on the cost management services including estimating, procurement and cost planning, owning the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and building long term relationships with your clients.

Integrity - Always do the right thing: You will lead operations that are fiscally and ethically viable, influencing the achievement of business objectives that align with business and legislative compliance obligations.

Create opportunity - For our people to excel: You will mentor, coach, and develop teams, demonstrating effective leadership to ensure excellence in delivery against plans, championing a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities.

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.

We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable with-in the role.

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