In this episode of The Designer Recruiter, host Esther Echeverria sits down with Amr Abdelaziz, Associate - Interior Design at LW Design Group in Dubai, whose favourite project to date is The Ritz-Carlton, Masai Mara. Guided by a simple philosophy - "understand the why, and everything else follows" - Amr shares how curiosity, his Egyptian roots and a love for process shape the way he designs, hires and leads.

You'll hear:
• Why "understand the why" sits at the heart of his design process
• From dreaming of being a pro gamer to architecture, interior design and hospitality
• How to break into hospitality design without hospitality experience
• What he looks for in a portfolio - "the journey, not the destination"
• Interview red flags, and why being nervous is completely okay
• Why a passport should never define what a designer can do

A must-watch for interior designers, architects, students, and anyone preparing a portfolio or an interview in the design industry.

👉 Watch now or listen on your favorite podcast platform.
✨ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from design leaders shaping the industry.

#TheDesignerRecruiter #InteriorDesign #HospitalityDesign #DesignPortfolio #DesignCareers #ArchitectureCareers #InteriorDesignDubai #LWDesignGroup #AmrAbdelaziz #RitzCarltonMasaiMara

Keep up with us:
🌐 Website: https://www.the-designer-recruiter.com/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_designer_recruiter/
💼 LinkedIn: https://ae.linkedin.com/company/the-designer-recruiter

Follow Amr:
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amr-abd-el-aziz/
🏢 LW Design Group: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lw-design-group/

In this energising episode of The Designer Recruiter, host Esther Echeverria sits down with Alan George, Associate at MKD and founder of the A-Form Show, the region's premier architecture and design podcast with over 100 episodes. Born and raised in Dubai, Alan opens up about what it means to be an award-winning architect who also podcasts, moderates, teaches, and gives back to the next generation, all while raising a toddler.
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You'll hear:
The 80% rule that changed how Alan approaches work, podcasting, and life
Why having an opinion online matters more than follower counts
How to get invited to speak — and the key difference between speaking and moderating
His mission to elevate local architecture graduates and close the talent gap
Time management secrets for doing it all without burning out
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A must-watch for architects, designers, and creative professionals looking to build their voice, expand their impact, and stop waiting for perfection.
👉 Watch now or listen on your favourite podcast platform.
✨ Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more stories from design leaders shaping the industry.
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#TheDesignerRecruiter #AlanGeorge #ArchitectureDubai #AFormShow #DesignCareers #PersonalBranding #CreativeLeadership #DesignPodcast #MKD #80PercentRule #ArchitectLife
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Keep up with us:
🌐 Website: https://www.the-designer-recruiter.com/
📸 Instagram: /lcrecruitment
💼 LinkedIn: /the-designer-recruiter
Follow Alan:
🎙️ The A-Form Show: https://www.youtube.com/@theaformshow2946
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alangeorgeantony/

In this insightful and engaging episode of The Designer Recruiter, host Esther Echeverria sits down with Kerem Cengiz, Managing Director at LWK + Partners, to explore his journey through the architecture and design industry from developing as a designer to leading one of the world’s respected global architecture practices.

Kerem shares thoughtful reflections on the realities of leadership in architecture, the responsibility that comes with guiding creative teams, and what studios truly look for when hiring the next generation of designers. He speaks candidly about the evolving role of architects today, the importance of collaboration and mentorship, and how strong studio culture shapes both great projects and great people.

Throughout the conversation, Kerem offers valuable insights into navigating the challenges of the profession, developing meaningful careers in design, and understanding what it takes to thrive in a global industry.

This episode is a must-watch for architects, designers, and creative professionals looking to better understand the intersection of design, leadership, and career growth.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• What architecture leaders really look for when hiring designers
• The importance of mentorship and studio culture in creative teams
• The realities of leading large architecture practices
• How architects can grow their careers in a competitive global industry
• Lessons from managing international design teams
• Advice for young designers entering the profession today

Whether you’re a student, emerging architect, or experienced design professional, this conversation offers meaningful insights into building a fulfilling career in architecture and design.