Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Evara

Location: Dublin, Leinster, Ireland

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Design Management / Construction Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-21

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the end-to-end design process for Design & Build projects, ensuring alignment with project objectives and client requirements.

• Leads and coordinates multidisciplinary design teams, fostering collaboration and driving technical excellence.

• Manages design programmes and information flow to ensure timely and efficient project delivery.

• Ensures strict adherence to Irish Building Regulations, BCAR, and other statutory compliance requirements.

• Drives the adoption and implementation of BIM and digital delivery processes, aligning with ISO 19650 standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of design, project management, and construction operations, requiring a strong understanding of both technical design principles and the practicalities of delivering large-scale residential projects within the Irish regulatory framework. The emphasis on Design & Build projects indicates a need for managing multiple stakeholders and ensuring seamless integration between design intent and construction execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Leadership & Management: Assume ultimate responsibility for Evara's design performance and quality on assigned projects. Lead the design process from the tender stage through to final project completion and handover. Coordinate and manage diverse design teams, including architects, structural, civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers, as well as specialist designers. Provide design input to Contracts Managers for commercial and programme-related decisions. Mentor and develop internal design coordinators and support staff within the Evara design team. Ensure design solutions are innovative, constructible, and deliver optimal value for money. Collaborate with estimating and commercial teams during the tender phase to formulate competitive and compliant design proposals.

• Programme & Information Management: Develop, maintain, and rigorously monitor design programmes to ensure they align with overall project timelines and milestones. Orchestrate the flow of design information, guaranteeing the timely issuance of drawings, specifications, and technical submissions to the site team. Lead and facilitate design team meetings, workshops, and crucial coordination sessions. Maintain a comprehensive master document register, meticulously tracking all design submissions and ensuring responses are provided within agreed timeframes. Liaise closely with the project planner to synchronize design milestones with construction programme requirements, mitigating potential delays.

• Compliance & Statutory Requirements: Guarantee absolute compliance with all Irish Building Regulations, planning conditions, and relevant statutory requirements throughout the entire design lifecycle. Actively manage all Building Control Amendment Regulations (BCAR) obligations, including the effective coordination of the Assigned Certifier and Design Certifier roles. Ensure strict adherence to Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) and Disability Access Certificate (DAC) requirements. Oversee the preparation and submission of all necessary statutory and regulatory documentation. Provide expert advice to the project team on potential regulatory risks and ensure prompt implementation of corrective actions.

• BIM & Digital Delivery: Spearhead BIM coordination and digital design processes in strict accordance with ISO 19650 standards. Implement and diligently manage the project's BIM Execution Plan (BEP), ensuring all design team members adhere to its guidelines. Utilize Navisworks and other advanced BIM tools for effective clash detection and coordinated design interfaces. Ensure that design models are consistently maintained, updated, and issued to the site team for construction use. Drive a culture of continuous improvement in digital delivery processes across Evara’s entire design function.

• Subcontractor & Supplier Design Management: Effectively manage subcontractor and supplier design packages, ensuring all submissions are compliant with project requirements and are approved in a timely manner to avoid project delays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong leadership in managing external design consultants and internal teams, with a significant focus on regulatory compliance in Ireland, particularly BCAR. The emphasis on BIM and digital delivery suggests that proficiency in these areas is not just preferred but essential for managing complex design coordination and information exchange.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree in Architecture, Engineering (e.g., Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical), or a closely related technical discipline.

• A third-level qualification in Construction Management or an equivalent field is highly desirable.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of post-qualification professional experience in a Design Manager role or a Senior Architectural position.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage the entire design lifecycle for complex construction projects.

• BIM Coordination & Digital Delivery: Expertise in BIM processes, including ISO 19650 standards, BEP development, and utilization of tools like Navisworks for clash detection and model coordination.

• Irish Building Regulations & Statutory Compliance: In-depth knowledge of Irish Building Regulations, BCAR, FSC, DAC, and other relevant construction legislation.

• Project Coordination: Skill in coordinating multidisciplinary design teams and ensuring seamless integration of all design elements.

• Technical Design Review: Ability to critically assess technical designs for buildability, compliance, and value engineering.

• Stakeholder Management: Experience in effectively managing relationships with internal teams, external consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

• Programme Management: Ability to develop, monitor, and manage design programmes to meet project deadlines.

• Contract Management Support: Understanding of design aspects related to contracts and commercial decisions.

Preferred Skills:

• Cost Management: Familiarity with budget management and value engineering principles within design.

• Risk Management: Ability to identify and mitigate design-related risks.

• Negotiation Skills: Experience in negotiating design solutions and contractual terms.

• Leadership & Mentoring: Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor junior design staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical design expertise, project management acumen, and a deep understanding of the Irish construction regulatory environment. The specific project value range and type (Apartment Design & Build) are critical indicators of the expected scale and complexity of experience. Proficiency in BIM and digital tools is presented as a core requirement for modern construction project delivery.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Showcase detailed case studies of relevant apartment Design & Build projects, highlighting your role, challenges, and successful outcomes. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements).

• BIM Execution Plan (BEP) Example: Include an example BEP or a section of one, demonstrating your understanding of ISO 19650 standards and how you would implement BIM protocols for a project.

• Design Programme Samples: Provide examples of design programmes you have developed and managed, illustrating your approach to scheduling, milestone tracking, and coordination with construction timelines.

• Coordination and Clash Detection Reports: Present samples of coordination reports or clash detection summaries, demonstrating your ability to identify and resolve design conflicts using tools like Navisworks.

Process Documentation:

• Design Development Workflow: Document a typical workflow for design development from initial concept through to construction issue, emphasizing key review stages and sign-offs.

• Information Management Protocol: Outline a protocol for managing design information, including document control, drawing registers, RFI processes, and submittal tracking.

• BIM Implementation Strategy: Detail a strategy for implementing BIM on a project, covering aspects like model federation, clash detection, and information extraction for downstream use.

• Regulatory Compliance Checklist: Develop a checklist or framework for ensuring compliance with Irish Building Regulations, BCAR, FSC, and DAC throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. The emphasis should be on tangible outputs that showcase project delivery, regulatory compliance, and proficiency in modern digital design and coordination processes. A structured approach to process documentation will highlight strategic thinking and operational efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for a Design Manager in Dublin, Ireland, with 5-10 years of experience, is typically between €70,000 and €95,000 annually. This range is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Irish construction sector, considering the specified experience level, the scale of projects managed (€50M-€200M), and the specialized requirements such as BIM and BCAR compliance. Factors such as specific qualifications, the company's financial health, and the exact scope of responsibilities can influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Coverage for medical, dental, and vision care, likely with options for family coverage.

• Pension Scheme: Contribution towards a retirement savings plan, often with a company match.

• Annual Leave: Generous paid time off, typically starting around 20-25 days per year, in addition to public holidays.

• Professional Development Support: Opportunities for continued learning, including funding for courses, certifications (e.g., advanced BIM, specific regulatory training), and attendance at industry conferences.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual bonuses tied to individual and company performance, particularly project delivery success.

• Life Assurance: Cover in case of death during employment.

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Confidential counselling and support services for employees and their families.

Working Hours:

The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, the demanding nature of project delivery may require occasional flexibility and a willingness to work additional hours during peak periods or critical project phases to meet programme deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimations are based on current market data for Design Managers in Dublin, Ireland. The benefits listed are typical for the construction industry in Ireland for roles with this level of responsibility and experience. The working hours reflect standard practice but acknowledge the potential for project-driven overtime.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Evara operates within the Real Estate Development and Construction industry, focusing on developing transformational neighbourhoods and affordable, quality homes. As Ireland's largest private developer, they are actively involved in significant urban regeneration projects across Dublin.

Company Size: Evara is a large organization, indicated by its active landbank and ambitious development projects. This size suggests a structured corporate environment with established processes and a dedicated team for each functional area, including design and construction operations.

Founded: While the founding date is not provided, Evara's description as "Ireland's largest private developer" implies a well-established presence and a history of significant project delivery, contributing to a culture of experience and stability.

Team Structure:

• Design Team: The Design Manager will lead a team of internal design coordinators and support staff, working collaboratively with external multidisciplinary design consultants.

• Project Delivery Teams: The role involves close integration with Contracts Managers, Project Planners, site teams, and commercial departments, forming project-specific delivery units.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The Design Manager will liaise extensively with estimating, commercial, legal, and planning departments to ensure cohesive project execution from tender to handover.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design & Planning: Emphasis on utilizing data from site teams, cost estimators, and planners to inform design decisions and programme adjustments.

• Integrated Project Delivery: A focus on collaborative workflows between design, procurement, and construction phases to optimize efficiency and mitigate risks.

• Continuous Improvement: A drive to enhance digital delivery processes, BIM implementation, and overall design management practices.

Company Website: [Evara Website URL - e.g., evarahealth.org, assuming this is a typo and it's a property development company]

📝 Enhancement Note: The context provided suggests Evara is a significant player in the Irish development scene. The Design Manager role will be integral to large-scale projects, requiring interaction with various departments and external partners. The company's scale implies a structured, process-oriented environment where efficiency and compliance are paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the design and construction operations sphere. It demands significant autonomy, leadership, and responsibility for critical project outcomes. The Design Manager is expected to be a subject matter expert in design coordination, regulatory compliance, and digital delivery processes.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior executive within the Development or Construction division, such as a Director of Development, Head of Design, or Chief Operating Officer. They will, in turn, manage internal design coordinators and lead external design teams.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is profound, directly influencing project profitability, schedule adherence, buildability, quality, and compliance. Effective design management is crucial for mitigating risks, controlling costs, and ensuring the successful delivery of Evara's large-scale residential developments, thereby contributing significantly to the company's reputation and bottom line.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership: Progression to roles such as Head of Design, Director of Technical Services, or a more senior Project Director position, overseeing multiple projects or entire development portfolios.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas like advanced BIM implementation, sustainable design integration, or complex regulatory affairs management.

• Operational Strategy: Contributing to the strategic development of Evara's design, BIM, and project delivery methodologies.

• Mentorship & Training: Taking on a more prominent role in training and mentoring junior members of the design and project management teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers substantial growth potential within a large development firm, moving into strategic leadership or highly specialized technical roles. The impact on project success and company reputation provides a clear path for career advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, requiring the Design Manager to be present at Evara's offices in Dublin. The office environment is expected to be professional and collaborative, supporting the coordination of complex projects.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Dublin, Ireland. Specific office address details would typically be provided during the interview process. Dublin offers a vibrant business environment with good transport links.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace will likely facilitate interaction with various internal teams, including project managers, commercial staff, and estimating departments. Regular meetings and workshops will be a key feature.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to necessary design and project management software, including BIM platforms, Navisworks, and potentially project management information systems (PMIS).

• Project Site Interaction: While primarily office-based, the role will necessitate site visits to understand construction progress, resolve on-site design issues, and conduct coordination meetings. This offers a dynamic blend of office-based strategic work and on-the-ground project engagement.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, the nature of large-scale construction projects means that flexibility is often required to meet critical deadlines, attend essential meetings, or address urgent site issues, particularly during peak project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role in Dublin is confirmed. The workspace is designed to foster collaboration and technological integration, essential for managing complex construction projects. The blend of office and site interaction is typical for this level of responsibility in the construction industry.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly experience in apartment Design & Build projects and knowledge of Irish regulations.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager focusing on your experience, leadership style, technical expertise (BIM, design coordination), and understanding of the role's responsibilities. Expect questions about your approach to managing design teams and navigating complex projects.

3. Portfolio Review & Technical Assessment: A dedicated session where you will present a selection of your work, focusing on case studies of relevant projects. This is where you demonstrate your problem-solving skills, design management capabilities, and understanding of BIM and compliance. You may also be asked to walk through a sample design programme or BIM coordination process.

4. Stakeholder/Panel Interview: This may involve meeting with senior members of the construction or development team, potentially the Contracts Manager or a Director. The focus will be on your ability to collaborate, manage stakeholders, and contribute to the broader business objectives. Cultural fit and alignment with Evara's values will also be assessed.

5. Final Offer: Following successful interviews and reference checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your most relevant and impressive projects, focusing on apartment Design &

Build projects of similar scale (€50M-€200M).

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

  • Project brief and your specific role/responsibilities.
  • Key design challenges encountered (e.g., site constraints, regulatory hurdles, coordination issues).
  • Your strategic approach and problem-solving methodologies.
  • The solutions implemented (highlighting BIM, technical design innovations, compliance strategies).
  • Quantifiable outcomes (e.g., savings in time or cost, improved buildability, successful regulatory approvals).

• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Be prepared to discuss your BIM workflow, clash detection processes using Navisworks, and how you ensure compliance with Irish Building Regulations and BCAR. Use visuals where possible.

• Showcase Leadership: Explain how you led and motivated multidisciplinary teams, managed external consultants, and collaborated with internal stakeholders.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, how you handle conflict, and your strategies for risk mitigation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Coordination Scenario: Be ready for a hypothetical scenario where you need to resolve a complex design clash involving multiple disciplines. Outline your steps for facilitating resolution.

• Regulatory Compliance Question: Prepare to discuss your approach to ensuring compliance with BCAR on a challenging project.

• BIM Implementation Strategy: You might be asked to outline how you would implement a BIM Execution Plan for a new project starting at tender stage.

• Programme Alignment: Prepare to discuss how you would align the design programme with a tight construction schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is structured to thoroughly assess technical competence, leadership capabilities, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and problem-solving skills, particularly regarding complex design coordination and regulatory compliance within the Irish context. The emphasis on BIM and digital delivery suggests that candidates should be ready to discuss these processes in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• BIM Software: Proficiency in industry-standard BIM authoring tools is expected (e.g., Revit, ArchiCAD, though specific preference may vary).

• Navisworks: Essential for clash detection, model aggregation, and 4D/5D planning, crucial for design coordination.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar for developing and managing design programmes.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing large volumes of project documentation and drawings (e.g., Aconex, Procore, or internal Evara systems).

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM Analytics Tools: Tools that integrate with BIM models for reporting on design progress, quantities, and clash status.

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, reporting, and programme management.

• Business Intelligence Tools (Potential): Exposure to BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for generating performance dashboards, though not explicitly stated, could be beneficial for advanced reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• Not Directly Applicable: While Evara likely uses CRM for sales and marketing, the Design Manager role focuses more on project delivery tools. However, understanding how design data might link to broader project management or ERP systems could be a plus.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with any tools used for automating design review processes or information exchange.

Design & Construction Specific:

• Irish Building Regulations & Standards: Direct access to and understanding of relevant official documentation.

• BCAR Documentation Platforms: Understanding of any digital platforms used for BCAR submissions and tracking.

• CAD Software: Basic understanding may be useful, though BIM is the primary focus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack heavily emphasizes BIM and project management tools critical for coordinated design delivery and programme management in large-scale construction. Navisworks is highlighted as a key tool for clash detection. Familiarity with these specific operational technologies is paramount for success in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and construction outcomes that meet or exceed regulatory standards and client expectations.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where multidisciplinary teams work together effectively, sharing knowledge and resolving issues collaboratively.

• Innovation & Efficiency: Embracing new technologies and methodologies, such as BIM and digital delivery, to improve processes, reduce costs, and enhance project delivery speed.

• Integrity & Compliance: Upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring strict adherence to all legal, regulatory, and contractual requirements, particularly concerning Irish Building Regulations and BCAR.

• Accountability: Taking ownership of design responsibilities and project outcomes, demonstrating a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Design Process: Encouraging a collaborative approach where all design disciplines, along with construction and commercial teams, are involved early and often to ensure constructability and value.

• Open Communication Channels: Maintaining transparent and regular communication through design meetings, workshops, and digital platforms to ensure all stakeholders are informed and aligned.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: Promoting an environment where feedback is welcomed and acted upon, leading to continuous improvement in design and project delivery processes.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A collective effort to identify challenges early and work together to find practical, efficient, and compliant solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Evara likely values a culture of high performance, collaborative problem-solving, and strict adherence to professional and regulatory standards. The Design Manager will be expected to embody these values, leading by example in their interactions with internal teams and external partners.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Design Coordination: Effectively coordinating multiple design disciplines (architectural, structural, MEP, specialist) on large-scale residential projects to prevent clashes and ensure buildability.

• Navigating Evolving Irish Regulations: Staying abreast of and ensuring full compliance with the dynamic Irish Building Regulations, BCAR, Fire Safety, and Disability Access Certificates, which can be complex and subject to change.

• Driving BIM Adoption & Integration: Championing and implementing BIM processes according to ISO 19650 standards across diverse project teams, some of whom may have varying levels of digital maturity.

• Balancing Design, Programme, and Budget: Achieving optimal design solutions that meet aesthetic, functional, and regulatory requirements while remaining within tight programme timelines and commercial constraints.

• Managing External Consultant Performance: Ensuring that all appointed design consultants deliver high-quality work on time and in full compliance with project requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM and Digital Construction: Opportunities to deepen expertise in cutting-edge BIM workflows, digital twins, and other advanced digital delivery technologies.

• Specialized Regulatory Training: Access to advanced training and certifications related to Irish Building Control, planning law, and construction regulations.

• Leadership Development: Formal and informal training in leadership, team management, and strategic decision-making for senior roles.

• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to leading practices in design management, contract administration, and sustainable construction through industry events and professional networks.

• Project Portfolio Expansion: Gaining experience across Evara's diverse range of large-scale residential development projects, broadening expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to large-scale construction and development, particularly within a specific regulatory environment like Ireland. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear career trajectory for ambitious professionals in design and construction operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully managed a complex design coordination issue on a large-scale residential project. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your methodology, problem-solving, and leadership.)

• "How do you ensure compliance with BCAR and other Irish Building Regulations throughout the design and construction phases of a project?" (Highlight your understanding of the process, documentation, and key roles like Assigned Certifier.)

• "Outline your approach to developing and managing a BIM Execution Plan (BEP) for a new Design & Build project, ensuring adherence to ISO 19650." (Demonstrate your BIM strategy and implementation skills.)

• "How do you balance the competing demands of design quality, programme deadlines, and budget constraints on a project?" (Showcase your prioritization and negotiation skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Evara's current projects and our position in the Irish property development market?" (Research Evara's recent developments and market standing.)

• "How do you see your role contributing to Evara's mission of building transformational neighbourhoods and quality homes?" (Align your skills and values with the company's mission.)

• "Describe your ideal team culture and how you would contribute to fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment here at Evara." (Showcase your understanding of team dynamics and your proactive approach.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with Impact: Begin with your most impressive and relevant project case study.

• Tell a Story: Structure your presentation around the challenge, your approach, the solution, and the results. Use clear, concise language.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use data to back up your claims (e.g., "reduced clashes by X%," "saved Y weeks on design programme," "achieved Z cost savings through value engineering").

• Visualize: Use drawings, BIM model screenshots, coordination reports, and programme charts to illustrate your points.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your responsibilities and contributions within each project.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Expect questions about specific design decisions, BIM workflows, or regulatory interpretations.

• Connect to Evara: Where possible, draw parallels between your experience and Evara's projects or challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the technical aspects of design management, regulatory compliance in Ireland, and BIM processes, coupled with proven leadership and problem-solving skills. Tailoring responses to Evara's context and showcasing relevant portfolio examples will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Evara HireHive portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with apartment Design & Build projects, your knowledge of Irish Building Regulations and BCAR, and your proficiency in BIM and digital delivery. Select 2-3 key projects for your portfolio that best showcase these skills.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your responsibilities and achievements in previous Design Manager or Senior Architectural roles, using keywords from the job description (e.g., BIM Coordination, BCAR, ISO 19650, Design & Build). Quantify your accomplishments with metrics where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare to present your portfolio confidently, focusing on your design management process, problem-solving abilities, and project outcomes.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Evara's current projects, company values, and market position in Ireland. Understand their mission and how your expertise can contribute to their success in building quality homes and transformational neighbourhoods.

⚠️ 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.

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