Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Mace

Location: Lisbon, Portugal

Job Type: Full-time, Regular

Category: Construction Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-03

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the coordination and delivery of multidisciplinary design teams on complex aviation projects, from concept through to construction.

• Ensure designs are developed safely, efficiently, and in alignment with program objectives and client requirements.

• Manage design risk, interfaces, approvals, and comprehensive stakeholder engagement strategies.

• Drive integrated project delivery by collaborating with commercial, procurement, program, and construction teams.

• Monitor and report on design progress, performance metrics, and key project deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Manager" title, combined with responsibilities focused on multidisciplinary coordination, risk management, and integrated project delivery within aviation projects, strongly suggests a role within the operational execution of design, rather than pure creative design. This aligns with a "Design Operations" or "Construction Management" focus, emphasizing process, coordination, and delivery efficiency. The emphasis on BIM and digital delivery further solidifies this operational aspect.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage multidisciplinary design teams throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept development to final construction phases.

• Ensure adherence to client requirements, project objectives, and established design standards, translating strategic goals into actionable design plans.

• Proactively identify, assess, and manage design risks, ensuring mitigation strategies are in place and effectively implemented.

• Oversee and manage project interfaces between various design disciplines, contractors, and stakeholders to prevent conflicts and ensure seamless integration.

• Facilitate and manage the design approval process, ensuring all necessary sign-offs and compliance checks are completed in a timely manner.

• Engage actively with clients, consultants, and internal project leadership to foster strong relationships and ensure clear communication.

• Collaborate closely with commercial, procurement, program management, and construction teams to foster an integrated approach to project delivery.

• Monitor and report on design progress, team performance, and the timely delivery of key design milestones and deliverables.

• Champion and support the adoption of innovation, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and digital delivery initiatives within the design process.

• Ensure all design activities comply with relevant governance frameworks, statutory regulations, and quality assurance protocols.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description details responsibilities such as "Managing and coordinating multidisciplinary design teams from concept through to construction," "Managing design risk, interfaces, approvals and stakeholder engagement," and "Collaborating with commercial, procurement, programme and construction teams to drive integrated project delivery." These points are expanded to emphasize the operational aspects of management, coordination, risk mitigation, and cross-functional collaboration, which are critical in a Design Manager role focused on project execution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a closely related technical discipline. Experience:

• Proven track record of Design Management experience on large-scale aviation, infrastructure, or similarly complex construction projects.

• Demonstrable experience in managing multidisciplinary design teams and navigating challenging project interfaces.

• Strong understanding of design coordination processes, design assurance methodologies, and effective risk management techniques.

• Experience in managing stakeholder engagement and communication on complex projects.

• Familiarity with BIM and digital delivery workflows and their practical application in project management.

• A proactive, collaborative, and solutions-focused approach to problem-solving. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing and coordinating the entire design process for large-scale projects.

• Aviation/Infrastructure Project Experience: Specific experience with the complexities and requirements of aviation or major infrastructure projects.

• Multidisciplinary Team Leadership: Ability to effectively manage, motivate, and coordinate diverse technical teams.

• Design Coordination & Assurance: Skill in ensuring design consistency, quality, and compliance across all disciplines.

• Risk Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent interpersonal skills for managing relationships with clients, consultants, and internal teams.

• BIM & Digital Delivery: Strong awareness and practical understanding of BIM and digital construction technologies.

• Communication Skills: Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities for clear and concise reporting and collaboration.

• Problem-Solving: A proactive and analytical approach to identifying and resolving design and project challenges.

• Collaboration: Ability to work effectively across different departments and with external partners. Preferred Skills:

• Professional Membership: Membership with recognized professional bodies such as RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects), ICE (Institution of Civil Engineers), CIOB (Chartered Institute of Building), RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors), or CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers), or an equivalent.

• Contract Management: Understanding of various construction contract types and their implications for design management.

• Financial Acumen: Ability to manage design budgets and understand the commercial implications of design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw requirements list a degree in specific fields and "Proven Design Management experience on major aviation, infrastructure or complex construction projects." This is expanded to include specific skills like "Design Assurance," "BIM & Digital Delivery awareness," and "Communication and stakeholder management skills," which are crucial for this role. The preference for professional membership is highlighted as a key differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented experience in managing the design process from inception through to construction, showcasing a clear understanding of each phase.

• Case studies demonstrating successful coordination of multidisciplinary design teams on complex projects, highlighting problem-solving approaches.

• Examples of design risk registers, mitigation plans, and how design assurance was implemented and monitored.

• Evidence of collaboration with various stakeholders (clients, contractors, consultants) and how design requirements were translated into project deliverables.

• Demonstrations of proficiency or strong understanding of BIM implementation and digital workflows in project delivery. Process Documentation:

• Showcase understanding of design management methodologies and workflow optimization techniques.

• Provide examples of how design progress and performance were tracked, reported, and managed against program objectives.

• Illustrate experience with relevant design software and digital tools, detailing how they were used to enhance efficiency and collaboration.

• Include examples of compliance with governance, statutory, and quality requirements within design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw input doesn't explicitly mention a portfolio, the nature of a Design Manager role, especially in complex projects, necessitates demonstrating past performance. This section infers the types of evidence a candidate should prepare, focusing on process, coordination, risk management, and digital tools, which are central to operations roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range: €50,000 - €75,000 annually.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: This estimate is based on average salaries for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in Lisbon, Portugal, considering the complexity of aviation projects and Mace's standing as a global consultancy and construction company. Factors influencing the final offer include specific project scope, candidate's negotiation skills, and precise experience alignment. Research was conducted using industry salary benchmarks for Portugal and similar international roles.

Benefits:

• Flexible working options, allowing for better work-life integration.

• Hybrid working options, combining office-based collaboration with remote flexibility.

• Part-time working options may be considered, depending on project needs and candidate suitability.

• Inclusive working environment that values diversity and promotes wellbeing.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.

• Access to company-wide training programs and skill enhancement initiatives.

• Potential for involvement in high-profile, international aviation projects. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Given the hybrid work arrangement and Mace's stated flexibility, there may be scope for adaptable working patterns, especially for tasks that can be performed remotely, while ensuring project deadlines and collaborative needs are met.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Consultancy, and Project Management within the built environment, with a specialization in sectors like aviation, infrastructure, and energy. Mace operates globally, providing expertise across the entire project lifecycle.

Company Size: Mace is a large global company with a significant employee base, operating in multiple countries. This scale offers opportunities for diverse project involvement and career advancement.

Founded: Mace was founded in 1990, bringing over three decades of experience in delivering complex projects worldwide. This history signifies a stable and experienced organization with a deep understanding of industry challenges and best practices.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a larger project delivery team, working closely with Project Managers, Commercial Managers, Construction Managers, and specialist consultants.

• The operations team structure is designed for integrated project delivery, emphasizing collaboration and clear lines of communication between different functional areas.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a cornerstone of Mace's approach, with Design Managers expected to bridge the gap between design consultants and the construction execution teams. Methodology:

• Mace emphasizes a data-driven approach to project delivery, utilizing analytics for performance monitoring and decision-making.

• Workflow planning and optimization are key, with a focus on delivering projects efficiently and to the highest standards.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, particularly through the adoption of BIM and digital technologies.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's description highlights its values and commitment to client focus, integrity, and creating opportunity. This suggests a culture that values professionalism, ethical conduct, and employee development, which are critical for operations roles requiring strong ethical grounding and a drive for continuous improvement. The company's global presence in construction and consultancy implies a rigorous, process-oriented operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, requiring significant experience in design management and project delivery within complex sectors. It represents a key operational leadership position within project teams.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will typically report to a Project Director or Senior Project Manager, depending on the project's scale and Mace's internal structure. They will, in turn, lead and manage the multidisciplinary design teams.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring the successful technical and operational execution of projects. Their ability to manage design effectively directly impacts project timelines, budgets, quality, safety, and overall client satisfaction, thereby contributing significantly to Mace's revenue and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Progress to Senior Design Manager, Technical Director, or Project Director roles, taking on larger and more complex projects.

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas like aviation infrastructure, sustainable design, or advanced digital construction methodologies.

• Leadership Development: Transition into broader leadership roles within Mace's project management or consultancy divisions, mentoring junior staff and shaping operational strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's focus on managing complex aviation projects and leading multidisciplinary teams indicates a significant impact on project success, aligning with typical growth paths for operations professionals in large construction and consultancy firms. The mention of "Create opportunity - For our people to excel" in Mace's values directly supports the emphasis on growth and development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Lisbon, Portugal, and is described as Hybrid. This suggests a modern office environment that supports collaborative work and team interaction, alongside the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): Specific office locations in Lisbon will be provided upon application or during the interview process. Mace has a global presence, indicating well-established office infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among project teams, with access to necessary tools and technology for design coordination and project management.

• Operations professionals can expect a dynamic environment where cross-functional communication is frequent and essential.

• The hybrid model allows for focused individual work at home and collaborative sessions in the office. Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, with a hybrid arrangement.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Mace mentions openness to discussing flexible working options, which can be beneficial for operations roles requiring focused analytical work or specific personal commitments, provided project deliverables and collaborative needs are met.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications and conduct a brief call to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into experience, technical skills, and understanding of design management principles in aviation projects. Expect questions on managing multidisciplinary teams and design risk.

• Technical/Case Study Assessment: A potential practical assessment or case study focusing on design coordination, problem-solving, or stakeholder management scenarios relevant to aviation projects. This is where your portfolio will be key.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or a panel to discuss strategic fit, leadership potential, and overall suitability for Mace's culture and project demands.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Relevant Projects: Select 2-3 major aviation, infrastructure, or complex construction projects that best showcase your design management capabilities.

• Process Improvement Focus: For each project, clearly outline the design process followed, highlighting any optimizations or efficiencies you implemented.

• Metrics and ROI: Quantify your achievements wherever possible. For example, "Reduced design clashes by X% through improved coordination," or "Ensured adherence to budget by managing design scope effectively."

• Visual Aids: Use diagrams, flowcharts, or BIM model snippets (where appropriate and not confidential) to illustrate design coordination and interfaces.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you managed challenging stakeholder expectations or resolved conflicts.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach managing design for a specific, hypothetical aviation project challenge (e.g., a tight deadline, a complex interface, or a change in client requirements).

• Practice articulating your design risk assessment methodology and how you would communicate critical risks to senior stakeholders.

• Prepare to explain your understanding of BIM's role in project delivery and how you leverage digital tools for collaboration and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the senior and specialized nature of this Design Manager role, an interview process would likely involve a robust assessment of practical experience and problem-solving skills, hence the emphasis on portfolio and case studies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• BIM Software: Proficiency or strong awareness of software like Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or similar BIM platforms for design coordination, clash detection, and visualization.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar for scheduling, task management, and progress tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or dedicated project collaboration portals for communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Basic proficiency in Excel for data analysis, reporting, and creating performance dashboards.

• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating progress reports, risk assessments, and performance summaries for various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information integrates with broader project management and client management systems would be beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or principles, especially in the context of design review and approval processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description specifically mentions "BIM and digital delivery initiatives." This section infers the types of tools and technologies a Design Manager would likely interact with, focusing on those critical for coordination, collaboration, and efficiency in modern construction projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First - Going Home Safe and Well: A paramount value, expecting all team members to prioritize safety in their work and decision-making, fostering a culture of care and responsibility.

• Client Focus - Deliver on Our Promise: A commitment to high-quality deliverables, achieving strategic outcomes, and building enduring client relationships through reliable performance.

• Integrity - Always Do the Right Thing: Upholding ethical standards, ensuring compliance with regulations, and acting with honesty and transparency in all dealings.

• Create Opportunity - For Our People to Excel: A dedication to fostering continuous improvement, supporting employee development, and empowering teams to achieve their full potential.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Emphasis on seamless collaboration between design, commercial, procurement, and construction teams to ensure holistic project success.

• Process Review Culture: Encouraging open feedback and constructive dialogue during design reviews and project meetings to identify areas for improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and innovative solutions are shared across teams and projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's explicit mention of its values provides a strong foundation for understanding the expected operational culture. These values translate directly into expected behaviors and decision-making frameworks for professionals in operations and project management roles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Interfaces: Effectively coordinating numerous design disciplines and external stakeholders on large-scale aviation projects, each with unique requirements and constraints.

• Balancing Innovation with Compliance: Integrating new technologies and methodologies (like advanced BIM) while ensuring strict adherence to safety, regulatory, and client-specific standards.

• Navigating Ambiguity: Dealing with evolving project requirements or unforeseen site conditions that necessitate rapid design adjustments and risk assessment.

• Driving Digital Adoption: Encouraging buy-in and effective utilization of BIM and digital tools across all project stakeholders, including those less familiar with the technology.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to specialize further in aviation design management, advanced BIM implementation, or project controls.

• Industry Conference & Certification: Support for attending industry events (e.g., aviation infrastructure conferences) and pursuing relevant certifications to stay abreast of best practices.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Opportunities to be mentored by senior project leaders and to mentor junior members of the design and project teams, developing leadership capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The nature of large-scale aviation projects presents inherent complexities. Identifying these challenges and framing them as opportunities for skill development is crucial for attracting and retaining talent in operations roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex aviation project where you managed the design process from concept to construction. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on process, coordination, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between diverse design disciplines and external stakeholders, particularly when managing conflicting requirements?" (Prepare examples of stakeholder management and conflict resolution.)

• "Walk us through your approach to identifying and mitigating design risks on a large infrastructure project. What tools and methodologies do you employ?" (Highlight risk management processes and proactive strategies.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do Mace's values (Safety First, Client Focus, Integrity, Create Opportunity) align with your professional approach to design management?" (Research Mace's values and prepare specific examples of how you embody them.)

• "How would you contribute to a continuous improvement culture within our project teams?" (Discuss your experience with process optimization and knowledge sharing.)

• "How do you measure the success of design management beyond just technical delivery?" (Think about impact on budget, schedule, safety, and client satisfaction.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, use a clear narrative: Challenge -> Your Role/Actions -> Solution -> Results (quantified where possible).

• Highlight Process & Tools: Explicitly show how you managed processes, coordinated teams, and utilized tools like BIM for efficiency and clarity.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your design management contributed to overall project success, safety, and client objectives.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific decisions, trade-offs made, and lessons learned from your portfolio projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Tailoring interview preparation to the specific role and company is key. For a Design Manager at Mace, demonstrating operational excellence, a strong understanding of safety and integrity, and the ability to manage complex stakeholder environments are critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Mace Careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in design management on major aviation, infrastructure, or complex construction projects. Use keywords from the job description, such as "design coordination," "risk management," "BIM," and "stakeholder engagement."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest projects that demonstrate your capabilities in managing multidisciplinary design teams, handling project interfaces, and driving design efficiency. Focus on quantifiable achievements and clear process descriptions.

• Research Mace: Familiarize yourself with Mace's global projects, values, and approach to project delivery. Understand their commitment to safety, innovation, and client focus.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to discuss your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and be ready to articulate your strategic approach to design management challenges.

⚠️ 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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