Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Galliford Try

Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne, Tyne and Wear, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full time

Category: Construction Operations & Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-04-28T07:32:34

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage the entire design lifecycle for construction projects, ensuring efficient development and delivery of design solutions from bid stage through to project completion.

• Lead the implementation and adherence to the Galliford Try Building Management System, ensuring all design processes align with company standards and best practices.

• Ensure strict compliance with CDM 2015 regulations and the principle of prevention and safety in design, actively identifying and mitigating design-related risks.

• Manage relationships with clients, subcontractors, and internal project and design teams to foster collaboration and drive successful project outcomes.

• Drive a culture of continuous improvement in design processes, focusing on buildability, constructability, and commercial acumen to optimize project delivery and profitability.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a hybrid position, requiring presence across multiple sites in the North East England region, implying a significant need for on-site presence and client-facing interaction rather than a purely remote setup. The emphasis on CDM 2015, risk mitigation, and stakeholder management points towards a crucial operational role within the construction project lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage client and subcontractor relationships, ensuring clear communication and alignment on design expectations and project goals.

• Lead the design process in accordance with the Galliford Try Building Management System, including process adherence and documentation.

• Apply and monitor compliance with CDM 2015 regulations, emphasizing the principle of prevention and safety in design throughout project phases.

• Proactively identify, assess, and mitigate design risks, while also capitalizing on opportunities to enhance project outcomes and value.

• Assist in the selection and competency assessment of external designers and consultants, ensuring they meet project requirements.

• Develop and agree on the scope of services for consultants, managing the compilation and administration of project fee schedules.

• Collaborate with Planners to develop, manage, and monitor the design programme, including Information Release Schedules, ensuring timely and quality design deliverables.

• Manage statutory and third-party processes, such as Planning Permissions and Building Control approvals, ensuring compliance and timely progression.

• Conduct regular site inspections to verify that the as-built product aligns with the approved design criteria and quality standards.

• Demonstrate commercial acumen by managing the design change process effectively, assessing impacts, and implementing approved changes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design oversight, project management, and regulatory compliance. The role requires a proactive approach to risk management and stakeholder engagement, with a strong emphasis on ensuring that designs are not only compliant but also buildable and commercially viable.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While not explicitly stated, a degree in a relevant construction discipline (e.g., Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture) or equivalent professional qualification is typically expected for a Design Manager role at this experience level.

Experience:

• 5-10 years of progressive experience in design management within the construction industry.

• Proven track record of managing the design process for complex projects from inception to completion.

• Demonstrable experience in managing client relationships, subcontractors, and design teams.

Required Skills:

• In-depth knowledge and practical experience with CDM 2015 regulations.

• Strong understanding of health and safety responsibilities and company policies within a construction environment.

• Ability to read, interpret, and manage design and construction programmes effectively.

• Solid understanding of buildability and construction methodologies, with the ability to challenge designs that do not align.

• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex design and project challenges.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of articulating ideas concisely to senior stakeholders.

• Demonstrated commercial acumen and experience in managing the design change process.

• Experience in managing subcontractor and consultant relationships.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with BREEAM assessment and certification processes.

• Familiarity with specific project management software or design collaboration platforms.

• Knowledge of various construction project sectors (e.g., education, healthcare, commercial).

• Experience in bid management and tender processes from a design perspective.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the experience level (5-10 years) and the critical nature of CDM 2015 compliance, candidates are expected to possess a strong foundational understanding of construction operations and project delivery, with a specific emphasis on design coordination and risk management. The mention of "commercial acumen" and "managing of design change process" implies a need for candidates who can balance technical requirements with project economics.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented case studies showcasing successful management of design processes for construction projects, highlighting complexity and scale.

• Demonstrations of risk mitigation strategies implemented during the design phase, with quantifiable outcomes where possible.

• Examples of how the Building Management System (or similar quality management systems) was applied and monitored.

• Evidence of managing design changes, including impact assessments, approvals, and implementation.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow examples illustrating the process for developing and managing design programmes and Information Release Schedules.

• Case studies detailing the management of statutory and third-party approval processes (e.g., Planning, Building Control).

• Examples of site inspection reports and how they informed the as-built product or design adjustments.

• Documentation of experience in managing consultant appointments and fee schedules.

• Evidence of applying CDM 2015 principles throughout the design lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should not only showcase completed projects but also demonstrate a structured approach to design management, risk assessment, and compliance. Candidates should be prepared to articulate the processes they followed and the systems they utilized to achieve project success, emphasizing efficiency and adherence to standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Wellbeing Programme: Access to Galliford Try's 'Be Well' programme, offering discounts on products, and support for various issues.

• Professional Development: Investment in high-quality training, including a leadership development framework and apprenticeship programmes.

• Career Advancement: Opportunities through the 'Career Paths' initiative for tailored training and support to fulfill potential.

• Agile Working Programme: Flexibility in when, where, and how work is performed, suitable for hybrid roles.

• Pension Scheme: Standard company pension contributions.

• Holiday Allowance: Generous annual leave entitlement.

• Life Assurance: Company-provided life assurance cover.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, the Agile Working programme suggests flexibility may be available, subject to project and team needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical UK construction industry rates for similar roles and locations. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting a commitment to employee wellbeing and professional growth, which is a significant draw for experienced professionals in the sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure. Galliford Try is a leading principal contractor in the UK, involved in a diversified workload across public, regulated, and private sectors, including education, healthcare, defence, custodial, judicial, commercial, and urban living projects. They are known for providing whole-life solutions and innovative approaches.

Company Size: Large. Galliford Try is one of the UK's leading construction businesses, indicating a large organizational structure with numerous employees and projects.

Founded: 1995 (as a result of a merger). Galliford Try has a long-standing history and established reputation in the UK construction market, suggesting stability and a deep understanding of industry dynamics.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a project-specific team, reporting to a Project Director or Senior Project Manager.

• They will collaborate closely with Planners, Commercial Managers, Site Managers, Health & Safety Officers, and external consultants/designers.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: Projects are managed with a focus on delivering lasting change and long-term value, implying a data-informed approach to project planning and execution.

• Process Optimization: The emphasis on the Building Management System and continuous improvement suggests a structured approach to workflow planning and optimization.

• Collaboration & Value Delivery: A core value is collaborating with clients, supply chain, and stakeholders to deliver excellence and exceed expectations.

Company Website: https://www.gallifordtry.co.uk/

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try emphasizes its values: Delivering Excellence, Being Passionate, Putting Integrity First, and Collaborating. This suggests a culture that values high performance, ethical conduct, and strong teamwork. The "people-orientated" vision means that employee development and wellbeing are likely key cultural drivers.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-to-Senior Level Management. This role sits at a crucial intersection of design, project execution, and compliance, requiring significant autonomy and decision-making authority. It's a step below senior project leadership but carries substantial responsibility for a critical project function.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Project Director or Senior Project Manager, with direct management of design consultants and close collaboration with site-based teams and commercial departments.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on project profitability, timelines, quality, and safety. Effective design management minimizes costly variations, rework, and safety incidents, directly contributing to the company's financial success and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Management: Progression to managing design across multiple projects or larger, more complex schemes.

• Project Management: Transition into full Project Management roles, overseeing all aspects of project delivery.

• Commercial Management: Development into roles with a stronger commercial focus, leveraging design and project knowledge.

• Technical Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas of construction design or management.

• Leadership Development: Participation in Galliford Try's leadership programs to develop strategic and managerial capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Career Paths" initiative mentioned in the benefits suggests a structured approach to employee development, making this role a solid foundation for long-term career growth within Galliford Try, particularly for those aiming for senior leadership positions in construction project delivery.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. The role is based in North East England, with the opportunity to travel across multiple sites/projects in the region. This suggests a blend of office-based work (for planning, reporting, and meetings) and significant time spent on construction sites.

Office Location(s): Primarily North East England. Specific site locations will vary depending on current projects. The company has a strong presence across the UK.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires constant interaction with diverse teams—clients, subcontractors, site teams, planners, and commercial departments. Collaboration is essential for effective design integration and problem-solving.

• Tools & Technology: Access to project management software, design collaboration platforms, and standard office technology will be expected. The company emphasizes its Building Management System, indicating a structured approach to information and process management.

• Site Exposure: A significant portion of the role will involve on-site presence, requiring adaptability to dynamic construction environments.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week), with potential for flexibility under the Agile Working programme. However, project demands, site requirements, and client needs may necessitate extended hours or weekend work at times.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of this role, with significant site involvement, is typical for construction management positions. Candidates should be comfortable with travel within the North East region and understand that site conditions can influence daily work patterns.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call with HR or a Resourcing Partner (Laura Mitchell) to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• First Interview: With the hiring manager (potentially a Project Director or Senior Manager) focusing on technical skills, experience with CDM 2015, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Expect behavioral questions.

• Second Interview / Assessment: May involve a more in-depth technical discussion, a presentation of a portfolio case study, or a scenario-based assessment focusing on problem-solving and decision-making.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to assess strategic alignment and overall suitability.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure is Key: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project or by skill area (e.g., CDM Compliance, Risk Mitigation, Stakeholder Management).

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the challenge, your actions, and the results achieved. Use metrics wherever possible (e.g., reduction in design changes, project timeline adherence, safety incident reduction).

• Highlight CDM 2015: Dedicate a section or clearly tag examples demonstrating your expertise in CDM 2015 compliance and safety-in-design principles.

• Showcase Collaboration: Include examples of how you effectively managed diverse stakeholders and fostered collaborative environments to achieve design objectives.

• Demonstrate Commercial Awareness: Present instances where your design management decisions positively impacted project costs or profitability.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions like: "How would you handle a significant design conflict discovered late in the project?", "Describe a time you had to challenge a design for buildability reasons," or "How would you ensure compliance with CDM 2015 on a complex site?"

• CDM 2015 Expertise: Brush up on the key duties of designers and principal designers under CDM 2015.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you have managed difficult client conversations, subcontractor disputes, or cross-functional team conflicts.

• Buildability & Sequencing: Be ready to discuss your approach to ensuring designs are practical and efficient to construct.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "Design Manager" role within a large construction firm suggests that the interview process will thoroughly assess technical competence, regulatory knowledge (especially CDM 2015), and practical problem-solving skills, alongside the ability to manage complex relationships and commercial aspects. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for demonstrating these capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for programme management and scheduling.

• Design Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools such as Autodesk BIM 360, Aconex, or similar for managing design documents, workflows, and communication.

• Document Management Systems: Proficiency in using company-specific or industry-standard systems for organizing and accessing project documentation.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word, Excel (for data analysis, scheduling, cost tracking), PowerPoint (for presentations), and Outlook (for communication).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For detailed analysis of project data, cost tracking, and performance reporting.

• Reporting Tools: Experience with generating reports on design progress, risk status, and compliance for senior management.

• BIM Software Awareness: While not necessarily a BIM modeller, understanding of Building Information Modelling (BIM) principles and how to interpret BIM models (e.g., Navisworks, Revit) is increasingly valuable.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Client Relationship Management): While not a direct sales role, understanding client management principles and potentially using CRM-like functions for tracking client communications and engagement.

• Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can streamline design review processes, document sharing, or reporting, though direct tool-specific experience may not be required.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different project management and design tools integrate to ensure seamless data flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools will depend on Galliford Try's internal systems, but proficiency in project scheduling, document management, and common office productivity software is essential. Familiarity with BIM principles is a significant advantage in modern construction design management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Doing the right thing in all dealings, particularly concerning design compliance, safety, and stakeholder interactions.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with clients, subcontractors, design teams, and internal departments to achieve shared project goals.

• Excellence: Striving for high standards in design delivery, problem-solving, and overall project execution.

• Passion: Demonstrating commitment and enthusiasm for contributing to successful construction projects that benefit communities.

• Safety & Wellbeing: Prioritizing the health, safety, and wellbeing of all individuals involved in the project, from design conception to site execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless integration with site operations, commercial teams, and external consultants, fostering open communication and mutual understanding of project needs.

• Process Review & Feedback: Participating in design reviews, site inspections, and post-project evaluations to identify areas for process improvement and provide constructive feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to the company's knowledge base by sharing insights on design best practices, risk management strategies, and lessons learned from projects.

• Proactive Engagement: Engaging with stakeholders early and often to anticipate issues, resolve conflicts, and ensure alignment on design intent and constructability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try's stated values of Integrity, Excellence, Passion, Collaboration, and putting people first are likely to be actively promoted within teams. Candidates should demonstrate how they embody these values in their daily work and decision-making, particularly in relation to design management and stakeholder interaction.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Conflicting Demands: Managing competing priorities between client expectations, budget constraints, programme timelines, and design integrity.

• Mitigating Design Risks: Proactively identifying and managing unforeseen design issues that can arise during construction, requiring swift and effective problem-solving.

• Ensuring CDM 2015 Compliance: Staying abreast of evolving regulations and ensuring consistent application across all project phases and subcontractors.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Effectively managing diverse expectations and technical understanding levels among clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.

• Site-Specific Challenges: Adapting designs and solutions to unique site conditions, logistical constraints, and environmental factors.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CDM Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in health and safety legislation and its practical application in construction design.

• Project Management Skills: Developing skills in broader project management, financial oversight, and strategic planning through Galliford Try's development programs.

• Industry Trends: Staying current with advancements in construction technology, sustainable design practices (e.g., BREEAM), and digital tools like BIM.

• Leadership Mentorship: Access to experienced leaders within Galliford Try for guidance and career development.

• Cross-Sector Exposure: Potential to work on a variety of project types across different sectors, broadening experience and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The construction industry is dynamic, and this role presents opportunities to tackle complex problems while growing significantly. The company's commitment to training and development suggests a supportive environment for professionals looking to advance their careers and expand their skill sets.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Philosophy: "Describe your approach to managing the design process from bid to completion. What are the key stages and critical success factors?" (Prepare to discuss your methodology, risk identification, and stakeholder engagement).

• CDM 2015 Application: "Walk me through how you ensure CDM 2015 compliance throughout the design lifecycle. Provide an example of a challenge you faced and how you resolved it." (Focus on practical application, legislative duties, and proactive measures).

• Risk & Opportunity Management: "Describe a significant design risk you identified and mitigated on a previous project. What was the outcome? How do you identify and realize design opportunities?" (Use the STAR method to detail your process and impact).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Values Alignment: "How do Galliford Try's values of Integrity, Excellence, Passion, and Collaboration align with your own professional approach?" (Research the values and prepare specific examples of how you demonstrate them).

• Teamwork & Communication: "Describe a time you had to influence a senior stakeholder or resolve a conflict within a project team. What was your strategy?" (Focus on communication skills, negotiation, and achieving consensus).

• Impact & Contribution: "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts? What impact do you aim to have on a project's overall success?" (Connect your role to project outcomes like budget, timeline, quality, and safety).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Impactful Case Studies: Choose 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your core competencies, particularly in managing complex designs, CDM 2015, and stakeholder relationships.

• Focus on Process & Results: For each case study, clearly outline the project context, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented (emphasizing your process), and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Highlight CDM 2015 Expertise: Ensure at least one case study or a dedicated section clearly demonstrates your proficiency in CDM 2015.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific details of your projects, your decision-making process, and how you would apply your experience to Galliford Try's projects.

• Conciseness: Present information clearly and concisely, respecting the interviewer's time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. A strong understanding of Galliford Try's values and recent projects will be beneficial for cultural fit discussions. The portfolio should be a tangible demonstration of their capabilities, not just a list of projects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Oracle Cloud platform.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and any supporting documents to highlight your experience with CDM 2015, design programme management, stakeholder engagement, and commercial acumen, using keywords from the job description.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 5-10 years of relevant experience, detailing specific project responsibilities and achievements using quantifiable data where possible. Emphasize your ability to manage design risk and ensure buildability.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions and prepare specific examples to showcase your expertise in design management and compliance. Review Galliford Try's values and recent projects.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Galliford Try's current projects, company culture, and their commitment to safety and sustainability. Understand their Building Management System and how your role contributes to their overall mission.

⚠️ 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 or Resourcing Partner (Laura Mitchell) before making application decisions.