At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a talented design team to deliver innovative MEP solutions across diverse projects.
- Company: Established MEP design & build specialist with over 50 years of experience.
- Benefits: Autonomy in a leadership role, stable growth, and diverse project exposure.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a collaborative environment focused on sustainability and innovation.
- Qualifications: Experience in MEP design management and strong technical knowledge in mechanical/electrical disciplines.
- Other info: Opportunities for long-term progression in a close-knit team culture.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
A decades old and ambitious Building Services Contractor is seeking an experienced MEP Design Manager to lead its in-house design function from its Kent office. This is a key leadership role within a growing business that delivers fully integrated mechanical and electrical solutions across a diverse portfolio of projects.
The Company
Our client is a well-established MEP design & build specialist with over 50 years of industry experience, delivering projects nationwide. They offer a full turnkey service from concept design through to installation and maintenance, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, low-carbon solutions, and energy-efficient systems. Operating across sectors including commercial, residential, defence, and public infrastructure, they are known for their collaborative approach, repeat business, and ability to deliver complex, bespoke projects. The business continues to grow steadily and has built a strong reputation for quality delivery, technical expertise, and a close-knit, team-oriented culture.
The Role
As MEP Design Manager, you will take ownership of the design function, leading a small but capable team and ensuring the successful delivery of projects through key RIBA stages. Key responsibilities include:
- Managing and mentoring a team of 4 Design Engineers and 1 CAD Technician
- Coordinating design outputs with internal delivery teams and external consultants
- Ensuring technical compliance, buildability, and commercial alignment
- Driving design quality, innovation, and sustainable solutions across projects
- Acting as the key point of contact for all design-related matters internally
You will be involved in a varied and technically interesting pipeline, including:
- Defence sector projects
- Municipal / public sector buildings
Projects typically range from complex refurbishments through to new-build schemes, often with a strong sustainability and energy focus.
What They’re Looking For
- Proven experience in an MEP Design Manager or Senior Design Engineer role
- Strong understanding of RIBA Stages 3–5 delivery
- Background within a contractor or design & build environment
- Experience managing teams and coordinating multidisciplinary design
- Strong technical knowledge across mechanical and/or electrical disciplines
- Commercial awareness and ability to align design with project delivery
Why Join?
- Genuine leadership role with autonomy and influence
- Stable, growing business with a strong pipeline of work
- Diverse project exposure across multiple sectors
- Close-knit team environment with a collaborative culture
- Long-term progression as the business continues to expand
Design Manager (MEP) in England employer: Skyward Select
Contact Detail:
Skyward Select Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager (MEP) in England
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and join relevant online groups. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. We want to see you shine, so understand their values and how your experience aligns with their goals. Tailor your answers to show you’re the perfect fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your portfolio! As a Design Manager, having a strong portfolio of past projects can really set you apart. We recommend putting together a visually appealing presentation that highlights your best work and demonstrates your design prowess.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager (MEP) in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the MEP Design Manager role. Highlight your leadership experience, technical knowledge, and any relevant projects you've worked on to show us you're the perfect fit.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how your background aligns with our focus on sustainability and innovative design solutions. Keep it engaging and personal!
Showcase Your Team Management Skills: Since this role involves managing a small team, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully led and mentored others in your previous positions. We want to see your collaborative spirit and ability to drive design quality.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Skyward Select
✨Know Your RIBA Stages
Make sure you brush up on your understanding of RIBA Stages 3–5. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully navigated these stages in past projects, as this will show your familiarity with the process and your ability to lead a team through them.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your experience in managing and mentoring teams. Think about specific instances where you’ve driven design quality or innovation, and be ready to explain how you foster a collaborative environment within your team.
✨Emphasise Sustainability
Given the company's focus on low-carbon solutions and energy-efficient systems, come prepared to discuss your approach to sustainable design. Share any relevant projects where you implemented innovative, eco-friendly solutions and how they benefited the overall project.
✨Align Design with Delivery
Be ready to talk about your commercial awareness and how you ensure that design aligns with project delivery. Prepare to discuss how you coordinate with internal teams and external consultants to achieve successful outcomes, especially in complex projects.