At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design management for a major energy transmission project and oversee external consultants.
- Company: Join a dynamic team focused on innovative energy solutions.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive pay, and the chance to shape infrastructure projects.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in energy transmission while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in Overhead Line projects and strong stakeholder management skills required.
Location: Derby / Nottingham (Hybrid Working)
Contract: 4-5 Months (Potentially until Easter 2027)
Start Date: ASAP
IR35 Status: Inside IR35
Payment: PAYE or Umbrella PAYE
Working Pattern: Typically Monday-Thursday office-based, Friday working from home
The Opportunity
We are currently seeking an experienced Design Manager - Energy to join a major transmission infrastructure project in the Nottingham area. This is an excellent opportunity for a proven Design Manager with a strong background in Overhead Line (OHL) transmission projects, ideally with previous experience working on National Grid schemes.
You will take ownership of the design management function, overseeing the performance and delivery of an appointed external design consultant. Working closely with the Project Manager, you will provide leadership, governance and assurance across the design workstream, ensuring all design deliverables meet the required technical standards, programme milestones and client expectations. You will play a key role in maintaining control of the design programme, identifying potential risks and driving performance, providing confidence to both project stakeholders and National Grid that design activities are progressing effectively.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and coordinate the activities and performance of the appointed external design consultant.
- Monitor, manage and report on design progress against agreed programme milestones.
- Ensure design deliverables meet project requirements, technical standards and client expectations.
- Identify, manage and mitigate design risks, issues and programme constraints.
- Provide detailed progress updates, technical feedback and reporting to the Project Manager.
- Act as the key point of contact between the project team, design consultant and National Grid stakeholders.
- Provide robust design governance, oversight and assurance throughout the project.
- Challenge and support the design team to improve delivery, quality and overall performance.
- Proactively manage design interfaces and drive timely resolution of outstanding issues.
Essential Requirements
- Strong experience in Overhead Line (OHL) transmission infrastructure projects.
- Previous experience working on National Grid projects.
- A thorough understanding of National Grid standards, processes and stakeholder requirements.
- Proven experience managing external design consultants on complex infrastructure projects.
- The ability to manage design delivery at both strategic and detailed operational levels.
- Strong stakeholder management, communication and reporting skills.
- The ability to quickly establish control, visibility and accountability across a design programme.
Desirable: Previous experience working with WSP would be highly advantageous.
Working Arrangements
The successful candidate will typically work Monday to Thursday in the office, with Friday working from home. The role will involve working from the client's Derby office, alongside office space at: MSI Office - Unit 2, Stirling House, Wheatcroft Business Park, Landmere Lane, NG12 4DG. Ideally, candidates will be available to work from the client office approximately three days per week, with the remaining office-based time at the MSI location.
Interview Process
Initial Teams interview with the Senior Design Manager and Project Manager.
Design Manager in Derby employer: Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd
At Diamond and the Danny Sullivan Group, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the heart of London. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and a supportive environment that encourages professional development, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in major infrastructure projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager in Derby
✨Get Hands-On with Temporary Projects
Temporary roles are all about flexibility and quick results. Look for short-term engineering projects or gigs that local companies might need help with. You can find these on job boards like Indeed or even niche platforms like PeoplePerHour. Don't be shy to reach out directly to firms—sometimes they have needs that aren't posted yet!
✨Tap into Engineering Meetups
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✨Leverage Your Connections
Let your friends and family know you're on the hunt for a temporary engineering role. Often, personal recommendations can get you in the door faster than any application. Share your goals and what you’re looking for through social media or casual conversations; you’d be surprised how many people might have the right connections!
✨Stay Sharp with Online Courses
While you're searching, keep those skills fresh! Take on some online courses related to your engineering field. Platforms like Coursera or edX can help you stay current and even get some certifications under your belt. This shows potential employers at Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd that you’re committed to growth, making you a more appealing candidate for temporary roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager in Derby
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Versatile Engineering Skills:For a temporary engineering role like this one at Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd, make sure to showcase a broad range of your engineering skills. Talk about different projects you’ve undertaken, focusing on your problem-solving ability and adaptability—key traits for temporary positions that depend on quick integration into teams.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since this is a temporary role, clarity is essential. In your cover letter, be upfront about your availability and how soon you can start. Employers like Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd want to know that you can hit the ground running, so don’t shy away from mentioning your flexibility!
Tailor Your CV to Showcase Relevant Experience:Make sure your CV is tailored to reflect the specific engineering projects relevant to the job. For instance, if you’ve worked on temporary contracts before or have engaged in diverse engineering processes, highlight these experiences to show how well-rounded you are.
Include References from Past Employers:Temporary positions often require trust and reliability. Adding references from previous employers can significantly boost your application. It shows that you have a strong work ethic and can adapt quickly, which is exactly what Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd will be looking for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd
✨Get to Grips with Your Technical Skills
Engineering roles often involve assessing your technical expertise, so be prepared to delve into your core skills. Brush up on relevant software and tools you’ve used before, as well as any engineering principles that relate to the position at Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd. We want you to showcase your hands-on experience and problem-solving capabilities – it could be the difference between you and another candidate!
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect to tackle some practical scenarios during the interview. Whether it's a design challenge or a troubleshooting test, Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd might want to see how you approach real-world engineering problems. Think of specific examples from your past work where you had to think on your feet and be ready to walk your interviewers through your thought process.
✨Show Your Adaptability in Temporary Roles
Since this is a temporary position, it’s key to demonstrate your flexibility and ability to hit the ground running. Make sure to convey your eagerness to learn and adapt quickly to the team and the specific projects at Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd. We all know that temporary roles can be a bit of a whirlwind, so emphasise your quick learning skills and your approach to managing change.
✨Highlight Relevant Portfolio Projects
If you've worked on engineering projects that align with the role at Danny Sullivan & Sons Ltd, make sure to bring them up! A portfolio can be a great way to illustrate your engineering prowess. Discuss the challenges you faced, the solutions you implemented, and the results achieved – this will give the interviewers a tangible idea of what you bring to the table.
