Ilie Cebotari

Available to hire

I am an experienced and visionary Interior Design Director with 20 years of expertise leading creative direction, design strategy, and execution across large-scale Residential, Commercial, Retail, Mixed-Use, Heritage,…

About

I am an experienced and visionary Interior Design Director with 20 years of expertise leading creative direction, design strategy, and execution across large-scale Residential, Commercial, Retail, Mixed-Use, Heritage, and Hospitality projects in the UAE and GCC. I have a track record of shaping distinctive design identities that mix innovation, functionality, and the highest standards of quality, from concept through completion.

I excel at cross-functional collaboration with architecture, development, and construction teams, guiding brand guidelines, value engineering, and sustainable solutions while maintaining fiscal discipline. I lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor talent, and drive design excellence across markets in the UAE and GCC.

  • 23 years' experience
  • Joined June 2026

Industry experience

  • Real Estate & Construction
  • Government
  • Healthcare
  • Education
  • Professional Services
  • Media & Entertainment
  • Travel & Hospitality
  • Retail

Work experience· 14 roles

Head of Interior Design · Mohamed Salahuddin Consulting Engineering Bureau (MSCEB)Nov 2025 – Jun 2026 · 8 mos

Led the interior design vision and strategy across a prestigious governmental and institutional portfolio valued at over $16B, spanning Workspace, Mixed Use, Residential, F&B, Wellness, and hospitality spaces. Defined universal design standards, mentored a high-performing team, collaborated with commercial and procurement to drive value engineering, and ensured compliance with Local Building Codes, NFPA, ADA, and LEED standards, overseeing BIM coordination and external consultants.

Senior Interior Designer · KEO International ConsultantsJan 2025 – Oct 2025 · 10 mos

Spearheaded Concept Design and technical execution for AKALA Residence by ARADA and Mosque and Office Tower complex for Emaar HQ. Reviewed and approved comprehensive design packages, detailed drawings, material selections, and high-value FF&E specifications to ensure design excellence. Coordinated with architecture, development, and operators to safeguard design intent, while leading teams to meet brand identity and budget targets.

Head of Interior Design · Arab Engineering BureauMar 2024 – Jan 2025 · 11 mos

Mentored a department of 13 interior design professionals, delivering large-scale developments including heritage-driven Diriyah Gates, the Ministry of Commerce HQ, and Qatar Energy Medical Facility. Served as key liaison to senior government stakeholders, presenting design concepts and securing rapid approvals; implemented QA/QC processes and ensured integration within architectural master plans.

Independent Design Consultant & Project Lead · Various Elite Consultancies & DevelopersMar 2023 – Mar 2024 · 1 yr 1 mo
Senior Interior Design Manager · Gharnata Consultant EngineersApr 2021 – Feb 2023 · 1 yr 11 mos
Lead Interior Designer · Omrania & AssociatesDec 2019 – Feb 2021 · 1 yr 3 mos
Founder and Mentor · Design Academy, ChisinauMar 2019 – Present · 7 yrs 9 mos
Senior Project Manager · Moldovan Design WeekJan 2018 – Jul 2018 · 7 mos

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design · Academy of Arts, Moldova2030 – 2006

Certifications and awards· 5

Hotel Design and Development2026
LEED Green Associate2021 – 2026
LEED AP2026
LEED Project Manager2026

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