At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design management for complex projects, ensuring quality and compliance.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on innovative design and build solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Join a high-performing team with opportunities for career advancement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in high-stakes projects while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and relevant certifications required.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
We are looking for an experienced Design Manager to lead full lifecycle design management of 1 large complex design & build project (RIBA Stages 0–7). You will oversee technical governance, design coordination, stakeholder engagement, and compliance, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. This is a hands-on leadership role combining technical expertise, commercial awareness, and team development, with responsibility for managing consultants, external design teams, and client engagement.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead end-to-end design management for D&B projects (RIBA 0–7)
- Develop and manage Design Delivery Schedules, Design Management Plans, and BIM Execution Plans
- Drive value engineering, buildability reviews, and risk mitigation
- Manage consultant scopes, contracts, and appointments
- Provide technical support during FAT, SAT, IST, commissioning, and handover
- Oversee QA, design reviews, and project governance
- Ensure statutory compliance, H&S, and design documentation standards
- Mentor and develop a high-performing design team
- Build strong client relationships and represent the company externally
Qualifications & Certifications:
- Degree in Engineering (Architectural, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, or Building Services)
- CSCS card and IOSH or SMSTS certification and First Aid at Work in date ideally
- Full UK Driving Licence
Experience:
- We welcome subcontractor, consultancy or main contractor backgrounds
- Proven Design Management experience in live, critical, or high-complexity environments (data centres, pharma, labs, industrial)
- Strong knowledge of statutory requirements, H&S, QA, commissioning, and BIM
- Client-facing and team leadership experience
Key Skills:
- Technical design leadership and governance
- Commercial awareness, cost control, and value engineering
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication
- Analytical, IT-literate, and problem-solving mindset
Design Manager- M&E in Watford employer: Core Search
As a Design Manager at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic and collaborative work environment that prioritises innovation and excellence. We offer competitive benefits, a strong focus on employee development, and opportunities to lead complex projects that make a real impact. Join us in a location that fosters creativity and teamwork, where your expertise will be valued and your career can flourish.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager- M&E in Watford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help you land that Design Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best design management projects. We want to see how you’ve led complex projects and tackled challenges head-on. A strong visual representation of your work can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to design management. We suggest you focus on your experience with RIBA stages and stakeholder engagement. Being able to articulate your past successes will give you a leg up!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager- M&E in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience with RIBA stages and any relevant projects you've managed to show us you're the right fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about design management and how your background aligns with our needs. Be sure to mention your leadership style and how you engage with clients.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:We want to see your technical know-how! Include examples of how you've overseen design governance, compliance, and risk mitigation in past projects. This will help us understand your approach to managing complex designs.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows us you’re keen on joining the StudySmarter team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Core Search
✨Know Your RIBA Stages
Make sure you’re well-versed in the RIBA stages 0-7. Be ready to discuss how you've managed projects through these phases, highlighting your experience with design management and technical governance.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that demonstrate your hands-on leadership style. Talk about how you've mentored teams and built strong client relationships, as this role requires a blend of technical expertise and team development.
✨Understand Compliance and QA
Brush up on statutory compliance, health and safety regulations, and quality assurance processes. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve ensured these standards in past projects, as it’s crucial for this position.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions that test your technical knowledge in areas like value engineering and risk mitigation. Prepare to discuss specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them, showcasing your analytical and problem-solving skills.
