Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: AVK

Location: Maidenhead, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-11

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and oversee the design and implementation of Standby projects within the energy solutions sector, specifically for data centers.

• Manage a team of engineers, fostering a collaborative environment focused on delivering high-quality, buildable, and cost-optimized designs.

• Ensure seamless integration of electrical, mechanical, CAD/BIM, and control systems for robust project execution.

• Implement rigorous quality controls and risk assessments to minimize rework, delays, and ensure compliance with EHS and longevity standards.

• Drive efficiency and cost optimization throughout the project lifecycle, from sales handover to service handover.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges traditional engineering management with operational oversight, focusing on the end-to-end design process for critical infrastructure projects. The emphasis on "Standby projects" within the data center industry suggests a high-stakes environment where reliability, quality, and timely delivery are paramount. The inclusion of "Operations Director & Engineering Director" in reporting lines indicates a strong connection to the operational execution and strategic engineering direction of the business unit.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Development & Strategy: Develop and refine designs with a keen focus on buildability and adherence to project timelines, ensuring constructability and program efficiency.

• Team Leadership & Management: Lead, mentor, and manage a team of engineers (electrical, mechanical, CAD/BIM, control systems) to ensure optimal performance and professional development.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate effectively with sales, concept design, pre-construction, and operations teams to ensure a cohesive and integrated project approach from inception to completion.

• Quality Assurance & Risk Management: Implement stringent quality control measures to achieve "right first-time" submissions, significantly reducing rework and delays. Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate design risks related to EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety) and the long-term integrity of the works.

• Cost Management & Optimization: Monitor design costs throughout the project lifecycle, identifying and implementing opportunities for cost optimization without compromising quality or performance.

• Supply Chain Integration: Manage the design phase of the project, ensuring that supply chain designs meet required standards and are delivered punctually, facilitating smooth procurement and installation.

• Process Improvement: Continuously assess and improve design processes, workflows, and methodologies to enhance efficiency, reduce waste, and elevate overall project delivery.

• Technical Integration: Oversee the integration of various engineering components, ensuring seamless functionality and compatibility within complex standby power systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a proactive, hands-on approach to design management. The emphasis on "reducing rework and delay due to status B & C documents" indicates a need for meticulous document control and clear communication pathways. The integration of EHS and longevity risk assessment directly into the design process signifies a mature approach to project lifecycle management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or a related field) or equivalent practical experience.

• A Master's degree or professional engineering certification (e.g., PE, CEng) is advantageous. Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in engineering design, with a significant portion in a management or team leadership capacity.

• Proven track record in managing complex engineering projects from conception through to completion, preferably within the energy, data center, or critical infrastructure sectors.

• Experience in overseeing the entire design phase of projects, including managing external consultants and supply chain partners. Required Skills:

• Engineering Management: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop an engineering team.

• Design Management: Expertise in managing the end-to-end design process for complex projects, ensuring buildability, quality, and adherence to specifications.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Strong understanding of project management principles, including scheduling, budgeting, and risk management.

• Technical Proficiency: Solid understanding of electrical, mechanical, and control systems engineering principles relevant to standby power solutions.

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency with CAD and BIM software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) for design review and integration.

• Quality Control: Experience implementing and managing robust quality control processes to ensure design accuracy and compliance.

• Risk Assessment: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate technical, EHS, and project-related risks.

• Cost Management: Skills in monitoring and optimizing design costs.

Preferred Skills:

• Energy Sector Experience: Specific experience in the energy sector, particularly with standby power systems, microgrids, or data center infrastructure.

• Operations & Pre-Construction Acumen: Understanding of operational requirements and pre-construction processes to inform design decisions.

• Supply Chain Management: Familiarity with managing design aspects related to supply chain procurement and delivery.

• EHS Compliance: In-depth knowledge of relevant EHS regulations and best practices.

• Data Centre Industry Knowledge: Familiarity with data center design standards, operational requirements, and industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "many (not all) of the requirements" statement suggests AVK values potential and a strong cultural fit, encouraging candidates who may not meet every single listed criterion to still apply. This indicates a focus on transferable skills and a willingness to invest in employee development. The emphasis on engineering management and specific technical disciplines points towards a role that requires both strategic oversight and a solid technical foundation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Showcase: A portfolio demonstrating successful management of engineering design projects, highlighting the scope, complexity, and outcomes.

• Team Leadership Examples: Evidence of team management, including how you have mentored, developed, and led engineering teams to achieve project goals.

• Process Improvement Case Studies: Specific examples of implemented process improvements within design workflows, detailing the problem, solution, and measurable impact on efficiency, cost, or quality.

• Quality & Risk Management Documentation: Examples of quality control plans, risk assessment methodologies, and how these were applied to ensure successful project delivery.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration Examples: Demonstrations of how you have effectively collaborated with sales, operations, and other departments to achieve integrated project success.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to document and analyze existing design workflows, identifying bottlenecks and proposing optimized solutions for efficiency and accuracy.

• Implementation & Automation: Experience in implementing new processes or automated solutions within the design lifecycle, showcasing an understanding of how technology can enhance design delivery.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Proven ability to define key performance indicators (KPIs) for design processes and to analyze performance data to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase completed projects but also demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage teams, implement processes, and drive tangible improvements. Case studies focusing on cost optimization and risk mitigation in design are particularly relevant given the job description's emphasis.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the UK, particularly in specialized engineering sectors like data centers or energy solutions, the estimated salary range is £60,000 - £85,000 per annum.

• This estimate considers the hybrid working arrangement, the company's growth and recognition (Deloitte's Best Managed Companies 2026), and the specialized nature of the role. Maidenhead's cost of living is moderate to high within the UK. Benefits:

• Competitive Benefits Package: A comprehensive suite of benefits designed to support employee well-being and professional growth.

• Flexible & Hybrid Working Options: Offers flexibility in work location and schedule, allowing for a better work-life balance.

• Ongoing Training and Career Development: Investment in employee growth through continuous learning opportunities, courses, and development programs.

• Supportive, Collaborative Team Environment: A workplace culture that fosters teamwork, knowledge sharing, and mutual support.

• Private Medical Insurance: Provides access to private healthcare services for employees.

• Company Bonus Scheme: Performance-based bonus opportunities, reflecting the company's success and employee contributions.

• Access to AVK North Face Merchandise: A unique perk that adds to employee engagement and company culture.

Working Hours:

• Approximately 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid and flexible working options allow for some degree of autonomy in managing daily schedules, provided project deadlines and team collaboration needs are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of wanting to be transparent with salary ranges suggests that the company is open to discussing compensation. The provided salary estimate is based on general UK market data for similar roles and experience levels, adjusted for the specialized industry and company prestige. The benefits package is quite attractive, with a strong emphasis on development and flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy Solutions / Data Centre Infrastructure. AVK operates at the forefront of powering the digital age, providing critical energy solutions for data centers. This industry is characterized by rapid technological advancement, high demand, and a focus on reliability and sustainability.

Company Size: AVK is a growing company, recognized as one of Deloitte’s Best Managed Companies 2026. While specific numbers aren't provided, this implies a dynamic, ambitious, and well-structured organization that values performance and strategic growth.

Founded: The company's founding date is not explicitly stated, but its rapid growth and recognition suggest a modern, forward-thinking organization that has achieved significant milestones recently.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager reports to the Operations Director and Engineering Director, indicating a dual focus on operational execution and strategic engineering direction.

• The role requires close collaboration with sales, concept design, pre-construction, and the broader operations teams. This suggests a highly integrated and cross-functional operational structure.

• The team managed by the Design Manager comprises electrical, mechanical, CAD/BIM, and control system engineers, forming a core technical unit within the engineering department. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AVK's recognition and growth suggest a reliance on data to inform strategic decisions and operational improvements.

• Innovative Approach: The company prides itself on innovation, evidenced by launching Europe's first operational microgrid and offering unique solutions.

• Focus on Reliability & Efficiency: As an energy solutions provider for data centers, reliability and operational efficiency are core tenets of their methodology.

• Quality & Standards: Emphasis on quality controls and meeting required standards ("right first-time submission") is a critical part of their operational methodology.

Company Website: https://jobs.workable.com/company/9kMva9VMefYJth2XgnERmF/jobs-at-avk (Company careers page)

📝 Enhancement Note: AVK's positioning as a leading, fast-growing energy solutions company for data centers implies a high-performance culture. The "Deloitte's Best Managed Companies" award suggests strong governance, strategic clarity, and operational excellence. The emphasis on innovation and unique offerings points to an environment that values forward-thinking solutions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-to-Senior Management level. It requires a blend of technical expertise, team leadership, and strategic project oversight. The Design Manager is a critical link between the sales/concept phase and the final operational handover, influencing project success from the outset.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports directly to the Operations Director and Engineering Director, signifying a key role in both day-to-day project execution and long-term engineering strategy. This dual reporting suggests exposure to both tactical operational needs and broader strategic engineering initiatives.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role has a profound impact on AVK's operational success. By ensuring designs are buildable, cost-effective, and high-quality, they directly influence project profitability, client satisfaction, and the reliability of the energy solutions provided to data centers. Effective design management is crucial for AVK's reputation and its ability to deliver uninterrupted power.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into higher leadership roles within the Engineering or Operations departments, such as Head of Engineering, Director of Operations, or specialized technical director roles.

• Strategic Project Involvement: Opportunities to lead design efforts on larger, more complex, or cutting-edge projects, including next-generation microgrid systems or advanced data center power solutions.

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like energy systems design, data center infrastructure, or advanced project management methodologies through ongoing training and project experience.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Develop a broader understanding of the entire project lifecycle, from sales and concept development through to service and maintenance, by working closely with other departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The reporting structure to both Operations and Engineering Directors is a significant indicator of the role's strategic importance and the potential for broad career development within AVK. This dual oversight likely provides a comprehensive view of the business and opportunities to influence both technical and operational strategies.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "Hybrid," indicating a mix of remote work and in-office presence at the Maidenhead location. This suggests a modern work environment that balances flexibility with the need for in-person collaboration.

Office Location(s): Maidenhead, England, United Kingdom. This location offers access to a skilled talent pool and is situated in a region with a strong business presence.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The Maidenhead office likely serves as a hub for team meetings, project reviews, and collaborative brainstorming sessions, particularly for design integration and cross-functional alignment.

• Technology-Enabled: As a company in the tech-adjacent data center industry, AVK likely provides its employees with modern technological tools and infrastructure necessary for design, communication, and collaboration.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model necessitates structured opportunities for team interaction, whether through scheduled office days, virtual collaboration tools, or specific project-focused meetings.

Work Schedule: While the standard working hours are approximately 40 per week, the hybrid and flexible nature of the role allows for some autonomy in managing personal schedules, provided project commitments and team collaboration are effectively maintained. This flexibility is key for managing design workflows that may require focused individual work alongside collaborative sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a significant factor for many operations professionals. It suggests a trust-based work environment that values output and collaboration over strict physical presence, while still recognizing the importance of in-person interaction for complex problem-solving and team building.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with the role's core responsibilities.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely one of the Directors) to delve deeper into your experience, management style, and technical expertise relevant to design and engineering leadership. Expect questions about team management, project delivery, and problem-solving approaches.

• Team/Cross-Functional Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential team members and key stakeholders from sales, pre-construction, or operations. This stage assesses cultural fit, collaboration skills, and your ability to integrate into the existing team dynamics.

• Technical/Case Study Assessment: You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio demonstrating your approach to a complex design challenge, cost optimization, or risk mitigation. This could also involve a technical discussion or a hypothetical scenario relevant to standby power systems.

• Final Interview/Offer: A concluding discussion, potentially with senior leadership, to finalize the decision and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your experience in managing engineering design, leading teams, and delivering successful outcomes in complex environments. Prioritize projects related to energy, critical infrastructure, or data centers if possible.

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design process followed, challenges encountered, solutions implemented, and the measurable impact (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, risk reduction).

• Showcase Leadership: Include examples demonstrating your team management skills, how you fostered collaboration, and how you supported team members' development.

• Focus on Operations Relevance: Emphasize how your design decisions considered buildability, operational efficiency, maintenance, and long-term reliability, aligning with the "handover to Service" aspect.

• Prepare a Concise Presentation: Be ready to walk through 1-2 key projects in detail, focusing on the story of problem-solution-result.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Standby Systems: Familiarize yourself with the principles of standby power generation, UPS systems, microgrids, and the specific challenges in data center power delivery.

• EHS & Risk Management: Be prepared to discuss how you integrate EHS considerations and risk management into the design process.

• Cost Optimization Strategies: Think about how you identify cost-saving opportunities within the design phase without compromising essential functionality or reliability.

• Team Management Scenarios: Prepare for questions about managing underperforming team members, resolving conflicts, and motivating engineers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "handover from sales to handover to Service" means the interview process will likely assess how well candidates can bridge these different stages, ensuring designs are not just technically sound but also practical for sales alignment and long-term operational success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, or similar for detailed design, drawing production, and model integration.

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

• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication, file sharing, and virtual meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Performance Tracking Tools: Ability to utilize or oversee the use of tools for tracking design progress, quality metrics, and cost adherence. This might involve spreadsheets (Excel/Google Sheets) for detailed analysis or integrated reporting within PM software.

• Data Analysis Software: Basic to intermediate skills in data analysis, potentially using Excel, Power BI, or similar for interpreting project data and generating insights.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System Awareness: While not directly managing CRM, understanding how design integrates with sales pipelines (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) can be beneficial for understanding project handovers.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with concepts of workflow automation and potentially experience with tools that can streamline design review processes, document management, or approvals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on managing engineers and processes, familiarity with project management and collaboration tools is essential. The ability to leverage CAD/BIM for design review and integration is a core technical requirement. Experience with performance tracking and basic data analysis will be key for demonstrating impact and driving optimization.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality designs that are "right first time," minimizing rework and ensuring long-term reliability.

• Innovation & Forward-Thinking: Embracing new technologies and approaches to power the future of data centers, as demonstrated by AVK's industry leadership.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively across departments and within the engineering team to achieve shared project goals and support one another.

• Integrity & Safety: Upholding high ethical standards and prioritizing Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) in all design decisions and project execution.

• Efficiency & Optimization: Continuously seeking ways to improve processes, optimize costs, and enhance the efficiency of design and project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Approach: Encouraging close collaboration between design, sales, pre-construction, and operations to ensure a seamless project lifecycle, from initial concept to final handover.

• Open Communication: Fostering an environment where feedback is shared openly, and challenges are discussed constructively to find the best solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the exchange of best practices and lessons learned within the engineering team and across departments to drive continuous improvement.

• Proactive Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages identifying potential issues early and working collaboratively to resolve them before they impact project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: AVK's culture likely values a proactive, results-oriented approach. The emphasis on innovation and being a leader in the data center energy sector suggests a dynamic environment where employees are encouraged to think critically and contribute to the company's growth and technological advancement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving Industry: Keeping pace with the fast-changing technological landscape in data centers and energy solutions requires continuous learning and adaptation.

• Balancing Competing Priorities: Effectively managing diverse stakeholder needs (sales, operations, clients), project timelines, and budget constraints while maintaining design integrity.

• Ensuring Scalability of Designs: Developing designs that are not only functional for current needs but also scalable and adaptable for future growth and technological upgrades in data centers.

• Managing Remote/Hybrid Teams: Effectively leading and motivating a dispersed engineering team, ensuring consistent performance and strong team cohesion.

• Integrating Complex Systems: Overseeing the seamless integration of multiple sophisticated systems (electrical, mechanical, control, BIM) into a cohesive and reliable standby power solution.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications in areas like data center design (e.g., CDCP, CDCS), project management (e.g., PMP), or specific engineering disciplines.

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen knowledge in areas such as microgrid design, advanced power electronics, or sustainable energy solutions.

• Leadership Development Programs: AVK's commitment to growth suggests potential access to leadership training, executive coaching, and mentorship programs.

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Projects: Working on innovative projects that push the boundaries of energy solutions for data centers, providing invaluable hands-on experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a fast-paced, technology-driven industry like data center energy solutions. The growth opportunities highlight AVK's investment in its employees, providing pathways for both technical and leadership development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to significantly optimize a design to meet budget constraints while ensuring project requirements were still met. What was your process?" (Focus on cost management, problem-solving, and decision-making).

• "How do you ensure your engineering team maintains high-quality standards and a 'right first-time' approach, especially when working under tight deadlines?" (Focus on quality control, team leadership, and process implementation).

• "Walk me through how you would manage the design phase of a critical standby power project, from receiving a handover from sales to preparing for handover to Service." (Focus on process management, cross-functional collaboration, and end-to-end ownership).

• "How do you identify and mitigate design risks related to EHS and the long-term longevity of a project?" (Focus on risk assessment, EHS awareness, and proactive planning). Company & Culture Questions:

• "AVK is recognized as a Deloitte Best Managed Company. What does this tell you about our operational approach, and how would your management style contribute to maintaining such standards?" (Focus on understanding company values, strategic alignment, and leadership philosophy).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within your engineering team and with other departments like Sales and Operations?" (Focus on collaboration, communication, and team dynamics).

• "Given our focus on innovation in the data center energy sector, how do you encourage innovation within your team while still managing risk and ensuring reliability?" (Focus on balancing innovation with practical constraints). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your role, the solutions you implemented (especially design optimizations and team management), the results achieved (quantified with metrics like cost savings, schedule improvements, quality metrics), and lessons learned.

• Highlight Process & Methodology: Explain how you achieved the results, detailing your design process, quality control measures, risk mitigation strategies, and leadership approach.

• Emphasize Operations Integration: Clearly articulate how your designs considered the handover to Service and operational efficiency, demonstrating an understanding of the full project lifecycle.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about specific technical aspects, design choices, team challenges, and financial impacts.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their experience in both technical design management and people leadership, demonstrating an understanding of AVK's specific industry context (data centers, energy solutions) and their commitment to quality, efficiency, and innovation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workable link.

• Tailor your CV: Ensure your resume highlights experience in engineering management, design leadership, project delivery, and any relevant technical skills (electrical, mechanical, CAD/BIM). Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in managing complex design processes, leading engineering teams, and achieving measurable results in terms of quality, cost, and efficiency. Be ready to present these in detail.

• Research AVK: Understand their mission, their role in the data center energy sector, their recent achievements (like the Deloitte award), and their innovative approach. This will help tailor your application and interview responses.

• Practice your narrative: Be ready to articulate your management philosophy, problem-solving approach, and how you would contribute to AVK's culture of excellence and innovation, particularly in the context of hybrid work.

⚠️ 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.