General Manager - Architecture

Role & responsibilities Key Responsibilities 1. Strategic & Leadership Lead the architecture and design function across the organization's project portfolio, aligning design strategy with business and sales objectives. Provide architectural leadership on land acquisition due diligence, feasibility studies, and product mix optimization (FSI/FAR utilization, saleable area efficiency). Build, mentor, and manage an in-house team of architects, planners, and design coordinators. Represent the organization in senior-level interactions with clients, JV partners, government authorities, and design consultants. 2. Design Management Own the end-to-end design process concept design, schematic design, design development, and Good-For-Construction (GFC) drawings. Ensure architectural designs are optimized for cost, constructability, saleable efficiency, and market positioning. Review and approve master plans, building layouts, unit plans, elevations, and landscape designs. Drive value engineering initiatives without compromising design intent or quality standards. Ensure integration of MEP, structural, landscape, and interior design inputs into a cohesive architectural output. 3. Consultant & Vendor Management Identify, appoint, and manage external architects, structural consultants, MEP consultants, landscape architects, and specialty consultants. Negotiate scope, fees, and timelines with design consultants; monitor deliverables against contractual milestones. Conduct periodic design reviews and coordination meetings to resolve inter-disciplinary conflicts. 4. Statutory Approvals & Compliance Oversee preparation and submission of drawings for statutory approvals (layout approval, building plan sanction, environmental clearance, fire NOC, RERA compliance, occupancy/completion certificates, etc.). Liaise with local municipal bodies, development authorities, and regulatory agencies to ensure timely approvals. Ensure all designs comply with applicable building codes, National Building Code (NBC), local bye-laws, and RERA norms. 5. Project Execution Support Work closely with the Project/Construction team to resolve design-related site queries and ensure design intent is maintained during execution. Conduct periodic site visits to review construction quality vis--vis design specifications. Support timely resolution of drawing discrepancies, RFIs (Request for Information), and site coordination issues. 6. Budgeting & Cost Control Provide architectural inputs for project cost estimation and budgeting at the planning stage. Monitor design changes and their cost/time impact; ensure changes are approved through proper change management processes. 7. Innovation & Sustainability Drive adoption of sustainable design practices, green building certifications, and modern construction technologies (prefab, modular, BIM, etc.). Stay updated with evolving design trends, materials, and technologies relevant to the real estate sector. 8. Documentation & Reporting Ensure proper documentation of design drawings, approvals, and revisions through a structured document control system. Present periodic design status reports, approval trackers, and risk assessments to senior management. Preferred candidate profile Minimum 20 years of overall experience, with at least 10-15 years in a project architecture leadership role within the Real Estate industry. Proven track record of having led architectural design and approvals for large-scale residential, commercial, retail, or mixed-use developments. Experience managing multiple, simultaneous projects across geographies preferred. Prior experience in a GM/Head of Architecture/Design Director capacity is highly desirable.