Design Manager, AMER

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, AMER

Company: Yondr Group

Location: USA

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Management / Project Delivery Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-06

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design review process for data center projects across the Americas region, ensuring alignment with global standards and best practices.

• Drive early site due diligence and master planning to guarantee the quality, timely delivery, and continuous evolution of Yondr's data center offerings.

• Implement and enforce Yondr's standard design principles, technical governance, and project delivery processes to mitigate risks and ensure operational excellence.

• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, vendors, and consultants to ensure seamless technical integration and adherence to project timelines and quality benchmarks.

• Actively contribute to strategic expansion through technical process development and support the acquisition program with technical due diligence for new sites.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within operations, specifically focusing on the critical planning and execution phases of data center development. The emphasis on "technical governance," "project delivery," "vendor management," and "site due diligence" highlights its operational importance in ensuring successful, standardized, and efficient data center builds. The "AMER" designation indicates a broad regional responsibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the comprehensive project design review process, coordinating effectively with internal stakeholders and cross-functional teams.

• Evaluate and manage the performance of contractors, vendors, and suppliers, ensuring their deliverables meet Yondr's stringent quality and technical specifications.

• Oversee design release, submissions, and approvals, ensuring synchronization with the overall delivery program and coordinating model reviews and clash detection.

• Ensure effective communication of technical interpretations of designs and change processes to the project team and relevant parties.

• Monitor and ensure Permitting Activities remain on schedule and in alignment with the overarching Project Schedule, proactively addressing any potential delays.

• Maintain a keen awareness of all commercial aspects related to design management, including estimates, change control processes, and out-turn costs, supporting the commercial team in identifying opportunities and managing change.

• Champion and lead company sustainability initiatives, ensuring all sustainability objectives are integrated and met throughout the project lifecycle.

• Ensure all design solutions seamlessly integrate Yondr's global safety and quality standards across all projects within the AMER region.

• Audit designs to identify inconsistencies, discrepancies, and missing information, meticulously recording, reporting, and tracking their close-out using an Information Required Schedule (IRS) format.

• Provide crucial support to the delivery and construction teams by resolving design-related issues promptly to prevent adverse effects on the construction program.

• Be accountable for the technical and design due diligence of acquisition programs associated with the Americas region, ensuring strategic site selections.

• Interface with internal discipline leads to implement site-specific data center design master plans and basis of design documents.

• Collaborate with external customers to refine specific site designs based on Yondr's standard design principles, feeding back requirements to enhance Yondr's basis of design documents.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly delineate a hands-on operational role focused on the technical execution of data center projects. The inclusion of "Permitting Activities," "Information Required Schedule (IRS)," "technical due diligence," and "basis of design documents" emphasizes the structured, process-driven nature of this position within the operations framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Structural Engineering, Mechanical Engineering (M&E), Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field is highly preferred, aligning with the preferred qualifications. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of experience in managing highly serviced buildings, with a strong emphasis on Data Centers or mission-critical facilities.

• Proven track record of delivering successful, sizable projects from design through to construction.

• Demonstrated experience in managing complex relationships (internal and external) with cross-cultural teams and stakeholders.

• Experience working with information technology workstreams to improve systems and processes. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in leading and managing the entire design lifecycle for complex projects.

• Data Center / Mission Critical Facilities Expertise: In-depth understanding of the specific technical requirements, operational nuances, and construction complexities of data centers.

• Technical Due Diligence: Ability to critically assess technical aspects of sites and designs for acquisition and development.

• Site Due Diligence & Master Planning: Proficiency in early-stage project planning and site evaluation.

• Vendor & Contractor Management: Skill in evaluating, coordinating, and managing the performance of external partners.

• Clash Detection & Model Reviews: Experience with tools and processes for identifying and resolving design conflicts.

• Permitting & Regulatory Compliance: Understanding of permitting processes and ensuring projects meet all regulatory requirements.

• Change Control Management: Ability to manage and communicate design changes effectively and assess their commercial impact.

• Risk Mitigation: Proactive identification and management of design-related risks.

• Commercial Acumen: Appreciation for the commercial implications of technical decisions and cost management.

• Cross-cultural Communication: Ability to build relationships and communicate effectively across diverse teams and international contexts.

• Technical Workshops & Meetings Leadership: Capability to lead technical discussions and drive consensus among stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior construction design experience.

• Architectural, Structural, or M&E qualifications.

• Experience with Design Management programs/software.

• Knowledge of refurbishment and fit-out processes.

• Familiarity with sustainability initiatives and LEED or similar certifications.

• Experience with IT workstream integration for system improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of "10 years' experience of highly serviced buildings" strongly suggests a senior-level operations role. The emphasis on "Data Centres or mission critical facilities" is a key differentiator. The blend of technical qualifications and commercial awareness is crucial for operations roles that bridge engineering and business outcomes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Demonstrating successful management of complex design processes from inception to completion, highlighting your role in coordination, problem-solving, and delivery.

• Site Due Diligence & Master Planning Examples: Showcase your ability to assess site feasibility, develop strategic master plans, and integrate technical requirements.

• Vendor Performance Management: Evidence of processes used to evaluate, select, and manage design consultants and contractors, including performance metrics and feedback mechanisms.

• Technical Documentation & Standards: Examples of your work in developing or implementing technical standards, basis of design documents, or Information Required Schedules (IRS).

• Risk & Change Management Documentation: Portfolios should include examples of how you've identified, assessed, and mitigated design-related risks and managed change control processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Candidates should be prepared to discuss and potentially demonstrate their approach to designing and optimizing design management workflows, ensuring efficiency and adherence to standards.

• System Implementation & Automation: Showcase experience in implementing or improving design management systems, software, or processes that enhance collaboration and project delivery.

• Metrics & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you track, measure, and report on design process performance, including KPIs related to quality, schedule, budget, and risk.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this nature, a portfolio is critical. It needs to go beyond just listing projects and instead showcase the candidate's operational methodology, process thinking, and ability to manage complex technical workflows and vendor relationships. The emphasis on "process documentation" and "metrics" aligns with the core functions of operations professionals.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $150,000 - $200,000+ USD per year.

• Methodology: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 10+ years of experience in mission-critical facilities (data centers) in the USA. Factors considered include the specialist nature of data center design, the scope of responsibilities (AMER region), and the required technical expertise. Compensation can vary significantly based on specific location within the USA, the candidate's exact experience, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and their dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with potential company match, supporting long-term financial planning.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and public holiday allowance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and attending industry conferences to enhance skills in data center design and management.

• Life and Disability Insurance: Providing financial security for employees and their families.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.

• Potential for Performance Bonuses: Based on individual and company performance, recognizing contributions to project success.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases or to meet specific deadlines. The role is on-site, requiring full-time presence at designated project locations or company offices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is a professional estimate for a senior role in a specialized industry within the US. Benefits are standard for full-time positions in the US, with an emphasis on those relevant to project-based roles and ongoing professional development crucial for operations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Data Center Development, Ownership, Operation, and Service Provision. Yondr Group operates in the rapidly growing digital infrastructure sector, supporting global tech companies with critical data storage and processing capabilities. The industry demands high levels of technical expertise, reliability, and precision.

Company Size: Yondr Group is experiencing exponential growth, indicating a dynamic and expanding organization. This likely translates to a fast-paced environment with increasing opportunities for individuals who can adapt and contribute to scaling operations.

Founded: (Information not provided in the raw data, but company description suggests a relatively young and rapidly growing entity challenging industry conventions). This implies a culture that might be more agile and less hierarchical than older, established firms.

Team Structure:

• Operations-Focused: The Design Manager will likely be part of a broader Project Delivery or Development team, working closely with project managers, construction teams, engineering disciplines, and procurement.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expect close collaboration with internal stakeholders such as Development, Engineering, Construction, and potentially Commercial/Finance teams.

• External Partner Integration: A significant aspect will involve managing relationships with a diverse range of external vendors, consultants, and contractors, requiring strong communication and coordination skills.

Methodology:

• Global Standards & Best Practices: Yondr emphasizes the deployment of global standards, processes, and technical governance, indicating a structured approach to project execution.

• Continuous Improvement: The role is expected to promote best practices and continuous improvement, suggesting a culture that values feedback and iterative enhancements to processes.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: While not explicitly stated, the nature of data center operations implies a reliance on data for analysis, risk assessment, and performance monitoring.

• Customer-Centric Delivery: The role involves working with external customer requirements, underscoring a focus on delivering high-quality solutions that meet client needs.

Company Website: https://www.yondrgroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on being a "disruptor" and "challenging convention" suggests a culture that values innovation, agility, and proactive problem-solving. For an operations role, this means being comfortable with change and contributing to the evolution of processes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role represents a senior-level position within the operations and project delivery function. It requires significant technical expertise, leadership in managing complex processes, and the ability to influence project outcomes. It's a critical link between strategic planning and on-the-ground execution in the data center development lifecycle.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report into a senior leadership role within Project Delivery, Development, or Engineering, potentially a Director or VP of Project Management or Development. They will, in turn, manage relationships with various external design teams and consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a profound impact on Yondr's operational success by ensuring that data center designs are technically sound, cost-effective, compliant with global standards, and delivered on schedule. Their work directly influences project budgets, timelines, operational efficiency, and the ultimate quality and reliability of the data centers built, which are critical for Yondr's clients and its reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Regional Leadership: Potential to grow into a lead Design Manager role for larger geographical regions or specific product lines within AMER.

• Director of Design/Engineering: Advancement to a strategic leadership position overseeing multiple design managers and defining the overarching design strategy for the company.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as mission-critical M&E systems, data center sustainability, or advanced cooling technologies, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Functional Movement: Opportunities to transition into broader project management, development management, or even operations management roles within Yondr, leveraging their deep understanding of the project lifecycle.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior design engineers and project managers, contributing to the development of future talent within Yondr's operations teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant step for operations professionals looking to specialize in the high-demand data center sector. The growth paths outlined are typical for senior operations and project delivery roles in expanding global companies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role requires an on-site presence, meaning it will involve working from Yondr Group's offices and potentially frequent visits to project sites, construction locations, and vendor/consultant offices within the AMER region.

Office Location(s): While the job lists "USA" broadly, specific office locations or project hubs within the Americas would need to be clarified. Candidates should expect travel to be a significant component of this role, potentially involving multiple states or countries within the region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a dynamic, collaborative workspace where team members work closely together to solve complex problems. This includes both internal team collaboration and intensive interaction with external partners.

• Access to Tools & Technology: The workspace will be equipped with necessary project management software, communication tools, and potentially access to design and BIM (Building Information Modeling) software for review purposes.

• Project Site Exposure: The role will involve on-site visits to construction projects, requiring adherence to site-specific safety protocols and an understanding of the practicalities of construction and installation.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely 40 hours per week. However, given the demands of project delivery and client needs in the data center industry, flexibility may be required to attend meetings, respond to urgent issues, or travel, especially during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation is crucial for operations roles that involve physical oversight, site visits, and direct team coordination, which are often critical for effective project delivery in construction and infrastructure.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications to ensure basic qualifications are met.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior leader in Design or Development) to assess technical expertise, experience alignment, and understanding of data center design principles.

3. Technical/Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, showcasing key projects, design management processes, problem-solving approaches, and impact on project delivery. This is where operational methodology will be scrutinized.

4. Cross-functional / Team Interview: Interviews with key internal stakeholders (e.g., Project Managers, Construction Leads, Engineering specialists) to evaluate collaboration skills, communication style, and cultural fit within Yondr's operations teams.

5. Final Interview: Potentially with a VP or Director level executive to discuss strategic alignment, leadership potential, and overall fit with Yondr's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Process-Oriented Presentation: Structure your portfolio to highlight your process for managing design, not just the final output. Detail your steps for site due diligence, vendor selection, design reviews, clash detection, and issue resolution.

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the impact of your design management efforts. Use metrics related to cost savings, schedule adherence, risk reduction, quality improvements, and sustainability achievements.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Include examples of complex design challenges you encountered and how you systematically resolved them, demonstrating your analytical and critical thinking skills.

• Highlight Collaboration: Demonstrate your ability to work effectively with diverse teams (internal and external, cross-cultural) by providing examples of successful cross-functional collaboration.

• Tailor to Yondr: Research Yondr's projects and values. If possible, include examples that align with their focus on innovation, global standards, and sustainability.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to design conflicts, permitting delays, vendor disputes, or budget overruns. Outline your step-by-step operational approach to resolving them.

• Technical Deep Dives: Expect questions on specific M&E systems, data center infrastructure, or construction methodologies relevant to highly serviced buildings.

• Process Improvement Discussion: Be ready to discuss how you would audit and improve Yondr's current design management processes, demonstrating your proactive and analytical mindset.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "Portfolio Review" and "Technical/Portfolio Review" session is key. This indicates Yondr values tangible evidence of a candidate's operational capabilities and process management skills, not just theoretical knowledge.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Management Software: Familiarity with platforms like Procore, Autodesk BIM 360/Construction Cloud, Aconex, or similar comprehensive project management and design collaboration tools is essential.

• BIM Software: Proficiency in reviewing and understanding models created in software such as Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or Bentley Systems.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or Jira for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, the ability to interpret data from project management systems for performance analysis is key. Familiarity with Excel for detailed analysis and reporting is a given.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating or interpreting project status reports and dashboards to communicate progress, risks, and KPIs to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP/Financial Systems: Understanding how design decisions impact project costs and working with financial data, potentially integrated with systems like SAP or Oracle.

• Workflow Automation: While not a primary focus, an understanding of how design processes can be streamlined through automation or improved system integration is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific mention of "Design Management programmes/software" in the requirements, alongside BIM and project management tools, points to a need for candidates who are not only technically proficient but also adept at leveraging technology to manage complex operational workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, technically sound data center designs that meet stringent global standards and client expectations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering strong working relationships internally and externally, valuing open communication and mutual support to achieve project goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Embracing a forward-thinking approach, challenging conventions, and actively seeking ways to enhance processes, efficiency, and sustainability.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for design outcomes, managing risks proactively, and driving projects to successful completion with a sense of ownership.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, demonstrating reliability and a commitment to Yondr's reputation.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Communicative: Engaging actively with all stakeholders, providing timely updates, and seeking input to ensure alignment and prevent issues.

• Solution-Oriented: Focusing on identifying problems and collaboratively developing practical, effective solutions to keep projects on track.

• Cross-Cultural Sensitivity: Demonstrating respect and understanding for diverse perspectives and working styles, especially given the global nature of Yondr's operations.

• Process-Driven: Adhering to established processes and standards while remaining open to feedback and suggestions for process optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Yondr's emphasis on being a "disruptor" and "challenging convention" implies a culture that values initiative and a proactive approach to problem-solving within its operational framework, rather than a strictly rigid, bureaucratic environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of various internal departments, external clients, and a multitude of vendors and consultants across different cultural backgrounds.

• Rapid Growth Environment: Navigating the complexities of a rapidly expanding organization, which may involve evolving processes, adapting to new teams, and scaling operations effectively.

• Technical Complexity & Innovation: Staying abreast of the latest advancements in data center technology, sustainable design, and construction methodologies to ensure Yondr remains at the forefront.

• Global Standards vs. Local Nuances: Ensuring consistent application of global design standards while accommodating specific regional requirements, regulations, and site conditions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Data Center Training: Access to industry-specific training and certifications related to data center design, engineering, and operations.

• Sustainability Certifications: Opportunities to gain expertise and certifications in green building practices and sustainable design for data centers.

• Leadership Development Programs: For high-potential individuals, Yondr may offer programs focused on developing leadership skills for managing larger teams and strategic initiatives.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Opportunities to learn from and collaborate with other operational functions, such as construction management, procurement, and commissioning, broadening understanding of the end-to-end project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dynamic and demanding nature of operations roles in high-growth, technically complex industries. The growth opportunities are geared towards continuous learning and specialization, crucial for career progression in operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing design reviews for a mission-critical facility. What are the key checkpoints and who do you involve?" (Focus on your operational methodology, stakeholder management, and process documentation.)

• "Walk me through a challenging design issue you encountered on a past project. How did you identify it, what steps did you take to resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a case study that showcases problem-solving, technical acumen, and impact.)

• "How do you ensure that global design standards are effectively implemented on local projects, considering potential regional variations and constraints?" (Demonstrate your understanding of standardization and adaptation in operations.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Yondr Group's approach to data center development, particularly our focus on challenging convention?" (Research Yondr's mission, values, and recent projects. Connect this to your operational philosophy.)

• "How do you foster collaboration among diverse teams, especially when working with international vendors and consultants?" (Prepare examples of your cross-cultural communication and relationship-building skills in a project setting.)

• "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts, beyond just meeting deadlines and budgets?" (Discuss KPIs related to quality, risk mitigation, sustainability, and operational efficiency.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio by project type or by core competencies (e.g., Site Due Diligence, Design Coordination, Risk Management).

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly define the challenge, your approach (your process), the actions you took, and the quantifiable results. Focus on your role and contribution.

• Highlight Operational Processes: Emphasize the workflows, systems, and methodologies you employed. Be prepared to discuss the "how" behind your successes.

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, charts, or simplified process flows where appropriate to illustrate complex concepts or workflows.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about specific technical aspects, decision-making processes, and stakeholder interactions within your presented projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation advice is tailored to probe the candidate's operational capabilities, process thinking, and ability to articulate their experience with concrete examples and quantifiable results, particularly in the context of data center design and project delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Greenhouse platform.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and responsibilities from the job description, such as "Design Management," "Data Center Design," "Site Due Diligence," "Vendor Management," and "Technical Governance." Quantify your achievements with metrics where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that best showcase your design management experience, focusing on your process, problem-solving skills, and project outcomes. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail.

• Research Yondr Group: Understand their vision, mission, and recent projects. Familiarize yourself with their approach to data center development and their global presence.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on your experience in managing complex projects, collaborating with diverse teams, and mitigating risks within an operational context.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.