Freelance Design Manager Role - Energy in Derby

Your new company
Our client is a leading UK construction and infrastructure contractor with a proven track record of delivering complex projects across the energy, water, rail, highways, nuclear and defence sectors. Operating nationwide, the business is recognised for its engineering expertise, strong safety culture and successful delivery of critical infrastructure for both public and private sector clients.

Your new role
In this position you will be working on a project which is upgrading the existing 400kV OHL connecting Cottam substation to Staythorpe substation. The planned works involve re-conductoring existing 400kV overhead lines, replacing insulators and fittings, as well as access and civils works. You will be based out of the client's Derby office with one day working at home initially.

You will be responsible for, but not limited to:

• Managing and coordinating the activities of the external design consultancy throughout the project life cycle.
• Monitoring design progress and ensuring deliverables are achieved in line with agreed programme milestones.
• Reviewing and challenging design outputs to ensure they meet project objectives, technical standards, and client requirements.
• Identifying design risks, issues, and constraints, implementing mitigation measures to minimise project impact.
• Providing detailed progress updates, reporting, and technical feedback to senior project stakeholders.
• Acting as the key interface between the contractor, design consultant, and client teams.
• Driving continuous improvement across design quality, performance, and delivery.
• Ensuring robust design governance and assurance processes are maintained.
• Supporting the successful delivery of project objectives relating to safety, cost, quality, and programme.

What you'll need to succeed

• Proven experience working as a Design Manager on major transmission infrastructure projects.
• Strong Overhead Line (OHL) experience within the power sector.
• Previous experience working on National Grid projects and a thorough understanding of their standards, processes and stakeholder requirements.
• Experience managing external design consultants and coordinating multidisciplinary design teams.
• The ability to operate at both a strategic and detailed level, providing robust technical oversight and programme assurance.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to challenge constructively and drive performance.

What you'll get in return
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Design Manager to join a major transmission infrastructure project on a freelance basis. You'll play a pivotal role in managing the design function, working closely with senior project stakeholders and contributing to the successful delivery of a nationally significant National Grid scheme. In return, you'll benefit from a competitive day rate, a long-term project pipeline, and the opportunity to work at the forefront of the UK's energy infrastructure sector.

What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.

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