Are you ready to lead the design process on some of the most exciting and innovative projects in the region? Willmott Dixon is seeking a Senior Design Manager, based out of our Morley office, you'll enjoy a hybrid working model with time split between the office, home, and projects. What You'll Do: As a Design Manager, you'll take ownership of the design process, fostering collaboration across disciplines and driving project success. Leading the design on projects ranging from £10m to £100m across the following sectors: Education, Leisure, Transport, Blue Light, Commercial and Residential. You'll oversee, monitor, and report on design programmes, ensuring high-quality outputs that align with project goals and budgets. Key responsibilities include: Leading the design process to produce accurate information that meets agreed specifications and cost plans. Managing the appointment and performance of consultants in line with their deed and agreed scope of services. Developing a design programme with consultants to meet whole-life programme milestones. Delivering cost-effective, innovative technical solutions. Chairing design team meetings and driving action plans to completion. Ensuring designs meet all statutory and regulatory approvals, with comprehensive tracking and documentation.With a robust pipeline of projects and a transparent outlook, you'll have the confidence that you're joining a stable business with a fantastic culture. About You We're looking for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and has a passion for innovative construction solutions. Key skills and attributes include: Strong leadership and communication skills. Attention to detail and the ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary teams. Experience in developing and managing design programmes. Knowledge of statutory and regulatory requirements relevant to construction design. The ability to produce cost-effective and creative technical solutions. Preconstruction experience highly desirableEssential Criteria Working knowledge of the wider construction industry, its challenges and future direction. Strong communication and negotiation skills. Technical knowledge of construction design principles, practices, and systems, including architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical disciplines. Ability to work within a team environment. Able to use Microsoft suite of office programmes including Excel, Word, Outlook and Microsoft Project, Bluebeam, use appropriate software to review 3D models.Desirable Criteria Working towards CIOB or another related professional membership. Construction related degree. Valid driving licence.Additional Information At Willmott Dixon we provide an inclusive and flexible working environment for people to thrive in and we are happy to support agile working wherever possible. We are a proud member of the Disability Confident Scheme. About Us With over 170 years of history, Willmott Dixon is a privately owned business with a purpose beyond profit - delivering brilliant buildings, transforming lives, strengthening communities and enhancing the environment for future generations. In 2025, we were recognised by The Sunday Times as one of the Top 10 Big Companies to Work For, ranked in the Top Five of Europe's 1,000 best workplaces by the Financial Times, and became the first major contractor and developer to win a King's Award for Enterprise in Sustainable Development
Senior Design Manager employer: Willmott Dixon Group
Willmott Dixon is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where creativity and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth, our Fit Out team provides opportunities to influence high-quality bids while working alongside industry leaders. Our recognition as one of the Top 10 'Big' Companies to Work For and our focus on sustainability make us a rewarding place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Design Manager
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Willmott Dixon Group, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Senior Design Manager at Willmott Dixon Group.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Willmott Dixon Group
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
