Design Manager in England

The Opportunity

You will be a key member of the project team responsible for the design function and team (both internally and externally) on live schemes. The role will also involve working with our Work Winning Department on tenders to help secure our future work. Managing and co-ordinating the design of a range of projects of varying complexity and value from tender stage through to the completion of construction stage design information. To utilise construction knowledge and experience to support innovative and cost-effective design solutions in conjunction with the appointed design partner and the project team, apply value engineering principles to ensure best value for all parties, and ensure an effective construction phase by applying an understanding of site management practices, interface management, risks, costs and co-ordination.

What you will be doing

• Support and encourage the development of innovative design solutions to clients’ briefs by the appointed design partner with input from the project team and subcontractors.
• Develop relationships with appointed design partners; review competences, ensure design deliverable dates are achieved, challenge buildability and audit their performance, raising any concerns swiftly.
• Develop relationships with clients during early concept stages; manage expectations of the project through regular communication and discussions regarding requirements and specifications.
• Chair and minute design team meetings and design workshops to arrive at solutions which are cost effective and meet the requirements of the procurement and construction activities.
• Manage the design relationship for the whole project team - with the client, subcontractors and professional team resolve any queries.
• Understand the process and risks/opportunities related to managing the design with regard to Employer’s Requirements, Contractors' Proposals.
• Identify and check contents of Contractors Proposals, qualifications list, design information and marketing documentation for the tender and then be able to deliver compliant design within these parameters.
• Adopt a proactive approach to value engineering throughout the design phase, by keeping up to date with latest construction techniques and legislation.
• Ensure that the scope sheets for each package in conjunction align with duties schedule and utilise these to feed design and procurement programmes and direct design team.
• Contribute to the programmes to produce information for both procurement and construction purposes.
• Be able to control information flow to suit these parameters from consultants and sub-contractors alike and be able to identify and report when problems are occurring and deal with non-performing parties in a robust fashion.
• Produce, monitor, and drive production through appropriate use of KPIs for the design process.
• Review the design on an ongoing basis, identify potential interface problems & practicalities in construction, and resolve with the design team and specialist subcontractors.
• Attend appropriate Subcontractor selection interviews, including preparation beforehand.
• Review appropriate subcontract enquiries to subcontractor designed packages.
• Appoint/evaluate the Design Coordinators. Ensuring terms and conditions of appointment are acceptable.

What we need from you

• Ability to communicate with a range of people at all levels, both verbally and in writing.
• Adaptable and flexible.
• Ability to plan, report, organise and project manage, especially in relation to programme output.
• Analytical problem solver.
• Client and customer focused to build productive relationships.
• Ability to make reasoned and informed judgements and coordinate decisions.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Effective leadership skills.
• Competent user of MS packages e.g. Outlook, Excel, Word.
• Experience of P6, Microsoft Project or similar (desirable).
• Competent user of Collaborative platforms.
• Well-developed Technical Construction knowledge.
• Knowledge and experience of various design standards (e.g. WIMES, Client Standards).

What we offer

• Competitive salary
• Car Allowance
• 26 days annual leave (with the opportunity to buy or sell up to 3 days holiday)
• 3 additional long service days achieved after 3, 7 and 10 years
• Private medical insurance for yourself (with the option to buy family cover)
• Life Assurance
• Defined contribution pension scheme matched up to 8%
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and parental leave
• 2 days volunteering opportunities
• Flexible and Agile working (dependent on your role)
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Professional membership fees
• Perks at Work Employee discount scheme offering discounts on a range of categories such as electronics, home appliances, food & groceries, car buying, travel, fitness and more
• Flexible Benefits scheme which includes the opportunity to purchase benefits such as: Critical illness insurance (with option to purchase for your partner), Dental Insurance, Travel insurance, Cycle to work scheme, Retail vouchers/payroll giving/activity pass for top leisure attractions.

Please note that this role is subject to Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance which includes identity, employment history, and criminal record checks. Please note we do not have a sponsorship licence.