Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Adler & Allan (working with Aqua Consultants for United Utilities)

Location: Warrington, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations Management

Date Posted: 2026-05-05

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (2-3 days per week in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary engineering teams in the delivery of critical wastewater infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects, focusing on improving environmental standards.

• Oversee the entire project lifecycle from feasibility and outline design through to detailed design and technical reviews, ensuring adherence to stringent quality, time, and budget constraints.

• Drive innovation and technical excellence by developing differentiated solutions that add significant value for clients, particularly within the water industry.

• Champion a strong safety culture and promote continuous improvement, knowledge sharing, and agile delivery methodologies within project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a hybrid position with a significant focus on client-facing responsibilities within the water utility sector, specifically United Utilities. The 'Design Manager' title, in this context, leans heavily into project management and operational delivery of engineering solutions rather than pure product design. The emphasis on DSEAR, CDM, WIMES, and client frameworks suggests a need for robust regulatory compliance and commercial acumen.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage and mentor a diverse team of engineers, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Conduct comprehensive feasibility studies, outline designs, and detailed design work, ensuring alignment with client requirements and industry best practices.

• Perform rigorous technical reviews of designs, calculations, drawings, and reports produced by internal teams and external partners.

• Develop accurate and competitive fee proposals and hour estimations for design schemes, demonstrating commercial awareness.

• Ensure strict adherence to DSEAR, CDM, WIMES, British and European Standards, and other relevant statutory and regulatory provisions.

• Proactively identify and mitigate project risks, creating an environment that encourages innovation and agile delivery.

• Drive the successful delivery of complex projects within agreed timeframes and budgets, exceeding client expectations and hitting key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Implement and contribute to the company's technical assurance processes, ensuring high standards of quality and compliance.

• Cultivate and maintain strong, positive relationships with business partners and key clients, acting as a primary point of contact.

• Generate new business opportunities by leveraging existing frameworks and identifying potential new projects and frameworks.

• Promote and embody the company's purpose, vision, values, and culture in all professional interactions and project execution.

• Provide line management, mentoring, training, and development support to junior engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical leadership and project management. The role requires a proactive approach to business development and client relationship management, indicative of a senior position within the consultancy framework. The emphasis on "agile delivery" and "virtual teams" suggests a modern operational approach to project execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Extensive experience (10+ years implied by AI analysis) and a deep understanding of the water industry, including water and sewage treatment processes and associated equipment/system requirements.

• Substantial experience in feasibility studies, outline design, detailed design, and conducting technical reviews.

• Proven experience in estimating fees and hours for design schemes.

• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage multi-disciplinary teams, fostering a safe and collaborative working culture.

• Experience in implementing and contributing to technical assurance processes.

• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects within budget and schedule.

• Experience in managing client relationships and frameworks to achieve KPIs and exceed expectations.

• Commercial and contractual awareness in project delivery.

Required Skills:

• Deep knowledge of water and sewage treatment processes and equipment.

• Proficiency in feasibility, outline, and detailed design methodologies.

• Strong understanding of DSEAR, CDM, WIMES, British and European Standards.

• Skilled in proposal fee/hours estimation for design schemes.

• Expertise in risk identification and mitigation strategies.

• Excellent client relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 packages.

Preferred Skills:

• Chartered Engineer status or actively working towards it.

• NEC accreditation.

• Knowledge of United Utilities' specific engineering standards and specifications.

• Experience in designing Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs) and storage tanks.

• Experience with Hazard Studies (HAZOP, HAZCON, HAZCOM).

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level expectation is high, suggesting a senior role. While a degree is required, Chartered Engineer status is preferred, indicating a strong preference for professionally recognized expertise. The inclusion of specific UK regulations (CDM, DSEAR) and industry standards (WIMES) points to a need for localized regulatory knowledge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio of successfully delivered wastewater infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects, highlighting complexity and scale.

• Showcase examples of innovative or technically differentiated solutions developed to solve client problems and deliver added value.

• Include evidence of managing projects within agreed timeframes and budgets, with clear metrics on delivery performance.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of technical report writing, including feasibility studies, design reports, and lifecycle assessments.

• Include documentation related to design risk assessments, project plans, and quality plans.

• Showcase examples of fee proposals, offers of service, and activity/work plan development.

• Present documentation related to participation in Hazard Studies (e.g., HAZOP) and their outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this senior engineering management role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage complex processes, mitigate risks, drive innovation, and achieve demonstrable client value within the water sector context. The emphasis on regulatory compliance and technical documentation is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Discretionary bonus

• Company pension scheme (with Salary Sacrifice option)

• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays

• Option to purchase additional leave

• Company mobile phone and laptop

• Training and career progression opportunities

• Professional Membership fees paid (e.g., for Chartered Engineer status)

• Life Assurance Scheme (4 x annual salary)

• Employee Assistance Programme (including GP appointments, physiotherapy, mental health support)

• Medicash cash plan (reimbursement for everyday healthcare costs)

• Refer a friend scheme

Working Hours:

• Permanent full-time, 40 hours per week.

• Hybrid working model with 2-3 days per week required in the United Utilities Lingley Mere office, Warrington. Site visits may also be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting a professional role with a significant company contribution to employee well-being and career development. The hybrid working arrangement is clearly defined, indicating a structured approach to work-life balance while maintaining office presence for collaboration.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Environmental Services / Water Utilities Consulting (Aqua Consultants operating for United Utilities)

Company Size: Adler & Allan is a significant environmental services group. Aqua Consultants, as a partner to United Utilities, operates within a large-scale utility infrastructure context.

Founded: Adler & Allan was founded in 1907, indicating a long-standing presence and deep industry expertise.

Team Structure:

• The role involves managing a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, implying a structured team with various specializations (e.g., civil, mechanical, process engineers).

• Reporting lines will likely be to a senior operations director or head of engineering within Aqua Consultants, with direct accountability to United Utilities project stakeholders.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making and technical analysis for design and project delivery.

• Application of robust project management methodologies to ensure timely and budget-compliant execution.

• Focus on process optimization, continuous improvement, and fostering an agile delivery environment.

Company Website: Adler & Allan: https://www.adlerandallan.co.uk/ (Aqua Consultants is a part of Adler & Allan)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history suggests stability and established processes, while the partnership with United Utilities indicates a focus on large-scale, impactful projects within a regulated industry. The culture likely balances established engineering practices with a drive for modern, agile project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management role within engineering operations, requiring significant technical expertise, project leadership, and team management capabilities. It sits at a crucial intersection of technical design and operational execution.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a more senior leader within Aqua Consultants (e.g., Head of Engineering, Operations Director) and will have direct reports within their design team. They will also be accountable to client stakeholders at United Utilities.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on the environmental performance of United Utilities' infrastructure by ensuring the successful design and implementation of projects that reduce spills to watercourses. The efficiency and effectiveness of the design process directly influence project timelines, costs, and overall client satisfaction, contributing significantly to the company's revenue and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to senior leadership roles such as Head of Design, Operations Director, or Programme Manager, overseeing larger portfolios of work.

• Development in specific technical areas or strategic client account management.

• Opportunities to lead larger, more complex, or high-profile projects, potentially involving international scope or advanced technologies.

• Mentorship of future leaders and contribution to the strategic direction of Aqua Consultants' design services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career advancement within engineering management and operations, particularly within the water sector. The emphasis on client relationships and business generation also opens avenues for more commercially focused leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working arrangement, requiring 2-3 days per week at the United Utilities Lingley Mere office in Warrington. This suggests a professional office environment designed for collaboration and operational oversight.

Office Location(s): United Utilities Lingley Mere, Warrington, England. This location serves as a primary hub for hybrid work, with potential for site visits to various project locations.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model necessitates a flexible and adaptable workspace, balancing remote productivity with in-office collaboration.

• Access to standard office technology, including Microsoft Office 365, will be provided.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with project teams, client representatives, and other engineering disciplines within the office environment.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid model. While core hours may apply, the focus on deliverable-based outcomes suggests some autonomy in managing personal work schedules, provided deadlines are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires strong self-management and communication skills. The office environment is expected to be professional and conducive to collaborative design and project planning sessions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter, focusing on relevant water industry experience, leadership capabilities, and regulatory knowledge (DSEAR, CDM, WIMES).

• Technical/Managerial Interview: In-depth discussion on project management experience, team leadership, technical design challenges, risk mitigation strategies, and client management. Expect scenario-based questions related to delivering complex projects under pressure.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of a curated portfolio showcasing key projects. Focus will be on the candidate's specific role, design choices, problem-solving approaches, team management, and achieved outcomes (budget, schedule, client satisfaction, environmental impact).

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or client representatives (United Utilities) to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select 3-4 key projects that best represent your experience in wastewater infrastructure design and management within the water industry.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, environmental improvements).

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to team leadership, stakeholder engagement, risk management, and technical assurance.

• Highlight examples of innovation, problem-solving, and adherence to regulatory standards (DSEAR, CDM, WIMES).

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for case study scenarios involving project delivery challenges, team conflict resolution, or technical design dilemmas.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, demonstrating your problem-solving methodology.

• Understand the key regulatory frameworks (DSEAR, CDM, WIMES) and be ready to discuss their application in design and project management.

• Familiarize yourself with United Utilities' general operational context and environmental goals if possible.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh practical experience and demonstrable results. A strong portfolio is essential, acting as the primary evidence of the candidate's capabilities. Candidates should be ready to articulate their strategic thinking and leadership approach in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD packages (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D) for design and drafting.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with Microsoft Office 365 suite, including Teams, SharePoint, OneDrive for communication, document sharing, and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret and utilize data from various sources for design optimization and performance monitoring. While not explicitly listed, tools like Excel are assumed.

• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating technical reports, feasibility studies, and project status updates.

CRM & Automation:

• Client Relationship Management (CRM): While not a direct sales role, understanding client management principles and potentially interacting with CRM data for project context may be beneficial.

• Automation Tools: Familiarity with automation in design workflows or project management processes could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is proficiency in CAD for design and project management tools for delivery. Familiarity with collaborative software is crucial given the hybrid and multi-disciplinary nature of the role. Specific mentions of DSEAR and CDM suggest the need for specialized software or databases related to safety and regulatory compliance.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to maintaining a safe working culture within project teams, adhering to CDM regulations and promoting proactive risk identification.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client satisfaction by delivering high-quality services that meet or exceed expectations, fostering strong and mutually valuable relationships.

• Innovation & Agility: Encouraging new ways of thinking, embracing agile delivery methods, and developing creative solutions to complex problems.

• Continuous Improvement: Fostering a culture of knowledge sharing, lessons learned, and a drive for personal and team development.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Actively supporting team members, encouraging diverse perspectives, and working effectively across disciplines and with business partners.

Collaboration Style:

• Emphasis on cross-functional integration, working closely with design engineers, project managers, site teams, and commercial departments.

• Proactive communication and stakeholder management are key to ensuring alignment between internal teams and external clients (United Utilities).

• A culture of open feedback and constructive dialogue to drive continuous improvement and problem resolution.

• Knowledge sharing practices, including lessons learned sessions and best practice dissemination, are encouraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture appears to be a blend of traditional engineering discipline and modern agile project management principles. Strong emphasis is placed on safety, client satisfaction, and collaborative problem-solving, with a forward-looking approach to innovation and continuous learning.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Client Demands and Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that innovative solutions meet stringent client requirements (United Utilities) while strictly adhering to complex regulations like DSEAR and CDM.

• Managing Diverse Project Portfolios: Overseeing multiple wastewater infrastructure projects simultaneously, each with unique challenges, deadlines, and stakeholders.

• Leading Hybrid and Virtual Teams: Effectively motivating, managing, and ensuring productivity and collaboration across team members working in a hybrid or potentially remote setup.

• Driving Innovation in a Regulated Industry: Fostering creative solutions within a sector often characterized by established practices and rigorous approval processes.

• Business Development: Generating new business and expanding existing frameworks while maintaining high delivery standards on current projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of wastewater treatment, CSO design, or advanced engineering standards.

• Leadership and Management Training: Opportunities to enhance skills in team leadership, strategic planning, and commercial management.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional qualifications (e.g., Chartered Engineer) and potentially specialized certifications like NEC.

• Mentorship: Providing and receiving mentorship from senior leaders within Aqua Consultants and Adler & Allan.

• Exposure to Large-Scale Projects: Gaining experience on significant infrastructure projects for a major utility like United Utilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges related to managing complex engineering projects within a regulated environment, requiring strong leadership and strategic thinking. However, these challenges are balanced by substantial growth opportunities within a reputable organization and a critical sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex wastewater infrastructure project you managed from concept to completion. What were the key challenges, your specific role, and the outcome?" (Focus on demonstrating project lifecycle management, problem-solving, and results.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and compliance within your engineering team, particularly when dealing with regulations like CDM and DSEAR?" (Assess understanding of safety protocols and regulatory adherence.)

• "How do you balance the need for innovative design solutions with strict client requirements and budget constraints?" (Evaluate your approach to value engineering and client satisfaction.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Aqua Consultants and Adler & Allan, and why are you interested in working with United Utilities?" (Showcase your research and alignment with company values.)

• "How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you motivate and develop junior engineers?" (Assess your team management and mentoring capabilities.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for each project example.

• Quantify your achievements with data wherever possible (e.g., percentage cost savings, schedule improvements, reduction in environmental impact).

• Be prepared to discuss your specific contributions and decision-making processes, not just the team's overall success.

• Anticipate questions about team dynamics, stakeholder management, and your approach to risk and quality assurance.

• Clearly articulate the technical challenges and your innovative solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a holistic understanding of engineering management, encompassing technical, commercial, safety, and team leadership aspects. Practicing project walk-throughs and articulating key achievements will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Customize your CV: Tailor your resume to highlight extensive experience in the water industry, wastewater infrastructure design, project management, team leadership, and familiarity with UK regulations (DSEAR, CDM, WIMES). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate a selection of key projects that showcase your capabilities in managing complex designs, leading teams, and achieving successful outcomes within budget and schedule.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Adler & Allan's services, Aqua Consultants' role in the partnership with United Utilities, and the company's values. Understand the 'Better Rivers Programme' if possible.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for questions related to your experience, leadership style, technical expertise, and problem-solving abilities, using specific examples from your career. Rehearse presenting your portfolio effectively.

⚠️ 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.