Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Robertson Group

Location: North West England, UK

Job Type: Other

Category: Construction Operations / Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-05-29

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the complete design process from pre-construction concept and scheme design stages through to project delivery, ensuring adherence to company procedural systems and communications protocols.

• Champion a culture of Health & Safety, quality, and best practices throughout all design activities, leveraging sector experience to benefit business objectives and support new work acquisition.

• Manage and appraise design information from consultant designers and specialist subcontract designers, identifying and mitigating design risks, safety implications, and potential issues to ensure client satisfaction and accurate pricing.

• Drive Net Carbon and sustainability targets within design development, working collaboratively with internal teams, external consultants, and supply chain designers to innovate and deliver responsible built environments.

• Demonstrate strong commercial awareness, strategic thinking, and adaptability to diverse project requirements, people, and cultures while maintaining a business perspective in all decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the construction and infrastructure sector, focusing on the operational management of the design lifecycle. The emphasis on "seeing things differently" and "sustainability" suggests a forward-thinking company culture and a commitment to modern construction practices, which will be critical for candidates to demonstrate. The core function is to bridge the gap between conceptual design and practical construction delivery, requiring a blend of technical understanding, project management acumen, and commercial sensibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end project design development, from initial pre-construction concept and scheme design stages through to detailed construction drawings.

• Oversee the delivery of design elements by both consultant designers and specialist subcontract designers, ensuring alignment with project scope, budget, and timeline.

• Conduct thorough design appraisal and review processes, providing detailed reports on the level and quality of design information, specifically assessing its adequacy for pricing and construction execution.

• Manage the design process through internal and external review and approval gateways, ensuring all submissions meet client requirements and regulatory standards.

• Identify unusual or abnormal design risks, developing and implementing effective mitigation measures to ensure design development and delivery meet client satisfaction and are accurately priced.

• Proactively identify safety risks and consider the health and safety implications of project delivery throughout the design phase, integrating these considerations into all design decisions.

• Establish and manage strong relationships with specialist supply chain designers, maintaining up-to-date technical knowledge in relevant areas to inform design solutions.

• Coordinate and manage Third Party peer review teams, including external consultants, to undertake detailed reviews, gap analysis, and provide constructive feedback on design progress.

• Assist in the development and maintenance of standard house types, specifications, drawings, details, and product libraries to improve efficiency and consistency across projects.

• Contribute to the business's Net Carbon and sustainability targets by integrating eco-friendly design principles and materials into project designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strategic oversight role rather than a purely hands-on design creation role. The emphasis on managing external consultants and subcontractors, appraising information for pricing, and managing risks points towards a senior operational position focused on the successful execution of design within a construction project framework. The inclusion of "standard house types" and "standard specifications" suggests a focus on repeatable processes and efficiency gains within the company's design function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Extensive experience in a Design Management role within the construction or infrastructure sector.

• Demonstrated experience managing the design process from pre-construction through to construction delivery.

• Proven track record of managing consultant designers and specialist subcontractors.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Comprehensive understanding of the design lifecycle in construction projects.

• Project Design Development: Ability to manage and oversee design from concept to detailed construction information.

• Health & Safety Management: Strong knowledge of construction health and safety regulations and their application in design.

• Commercial Awareness: Ability to identify commercial opportunities and risks within design and project delivery.

• Risk Assessment & Mitigation: Proficient in identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks.

• Stakeholder Management: Skilled in collaborating with internal teams, external consultants, subcontractors, and clients.

• Technical Specification: Ability to appraise and ensure the adequacy of technical specifications and drawings.

• Adaptability: Proven ability to adapt effectively to varying environments, responsibilities, people, and cultures.

• Teamwork: Experience working effectively within a team and managing multiple projects or tenders concurrently.

• Problem-Solving: Analytical skills to identify innovative and effective solutions to design and project issues.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of Net Carbon and sustainability targets in construction.

• Experience with standard house type development and specification maintenance.

• Familiarity with company procedural systems and communications protocols relevant to construction.

• Proficiency in using relevant design and project management software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of formal education and significant practical experience in construction design management. The "extensive experience" requirement, coupled with the strategic responsibilities, suggests this role is for a mid-to-senior level professional, likely with 7-10 years of relevant experience. The call for confidence in decisions and quick adjustment to challenges points to a need for strong leadership and problem-solving capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successfully managing design processes for construction projects, showcasing your ability to guide projects from concept to completion.

• Include case studies that highlight your approach to design appraisal and risk mitigation, detailing how you identified and resolved potential issues to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

• Showcase examples of your involvement in sustainability initiatives or the integration of Net Carbon targets within design solutions, illustrating your commitment to responsible construction practices.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of your experience in developing or adhering to company procedural systems and communication protocols within a construction environment.

• Illustrate your understanding of how to maintain and develop standard specifications, drawings, and details to enhance project efficiency and consistency.

• Showcase instances where you have analyzed design information and reported on its adequacy for pricing and construction, demonstrating your commercial and operational insight.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should focus on tangible project outcomes and process management. Candidates should be prepared to showcase how they have actively shaped and controlled the design process, managed external parties, and contributed to the overall success of construction projects from a design perspective. The emphasis on process and systems implies that a structured approach to design management is highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• 33 days annual leave (pro-rata for part-time/FTC, increases with service) – offering excellent work-life balance.

• Salary Sacrifice Pension Scheme – allowing for tax-efficient contributions to retirement savings.

• Life Assurance – providing financial security for dependents.

• Cycle to Work Scheme – promoting sustainable commuting and employee well-being.

• Discounts via Hapi Rewards App – including gym memberships, restaurants, and days out, offering tangible savings.

• Annual Flu Vaccine – supporting employee health and preventative care.

• Access to E-Learning – facilitating continuous professional development and skill enhancement.

• Health & Wellbeing Support – providing resources for physical and mental well-being.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours for this role are 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, a degree of flexibility may be expected to meet project demands and deadlines, particularly during critical pre-construction and delivery phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimation. It's crucial for candidates to research current market rates for Design Managers in the North West England region to ensure their expectations are aligned. The benefits package is comprehensive and attractive, highlighting the company's commitment to employee welfare and work-life balance. The mention of "increases with length of service" for annual leave is a positive indicator of long-term employee value.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Infrastructure, and Support Services. Robertson Group is a significant player in the UK's built environment, involved in a wide array of projects from housing to major infrastructure.

Company Size: Large family-owned business – this often implies a strong sense of community, long-term vision, and a commitment to its employees, while still possessing the scale and resources to undertake substantial projects.

Founded: Information not explicitly provided in the input, but the company is described as the "UK’s largest family-owned construction, infrastructure, and support services business," suggesting a long-standing presence and established reputation.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a broader project delivery team, collaborating closely with Project Managers, Site Managers, Quantity Surveyors, and potentially wider design or technical departments.

• The reporting structure will typically involve reporting to a Senior Project Manager, Construction Manager, or a Head of Design, depending on the project and organizational hierarchy.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a structured approach, utilizing "various company procedural systems" and defined "communications protocols." This indicates a reliance on established processes for project management and design delivery.

• A strong focus on customer focus, commercial awareness, and strategic thinking is expected, influencing decision-making and problem-solving.

• Innovation and adaptability are encouraged, with an emphasis on analyzing information, identifying solutions, and anticipating problems to modify plans accordingly.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The "family-owned" aspect often translates to a culture that values loyalty, long-term relationships, and a sense of shared purpose. The "seeing things differently" ethos suggests an innovative and adaptive culture, contrasting with potentially more traditional construction environments. Candidates should research the company's recent projects and sustainability reports to better understand their operational focus and values.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level within the project delivery function. It requires significant autonomy in managing the design process and influencing project outcomes, bridging strategic oversight with operational execution. The responsibilities include managing external parties and ensuring design aligns with commercial and safety objectives, indicating a role with substantial responsibility and impact.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior figure within the project management or construction leadership team, such as a Project Director, Operations Manager, or Head of Design. They will, in turn, be responsible for managing the design inputs from external consultants and subcontractors.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is critical in ensuring that projects are designed efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively, directly impacting project profitability, timely delivery, and client satisfaction. Their ability to mitigate design risks and ensure constructability influences the overall success and reputation of Robertson Group's projects. The focus on Net Carbon and sustainability also positions this role as a key contributor to the company's environmental and corporate responsibility goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into roles such as Senior Design Manager, Head of Design, or Project Director, taking on larger, more complex projects or managing larger teams.

• Specialization: Opportunity to develop deeper expertise in specific areas like sustainable design, BIM management, or particular construction typologies (e.g., residential, infrastructure).

• Cross-Functional Development: Potential to move into broader project management roles, leveraging design expertise to manage entire project lifecycles.

• Continuous Learning: Access to e-learning and potentially external training/certifications to enhance technical and management skills, supporting career advancement within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "ambitious and want a career where you can grow and progress" in the "About You" section strongly indicates that Robertson Group offers clear pathways for career development. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their long-term career aspirations and how this role aligns with them. The company's size and status as a large family business suggest stability and potential for internal advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in North West England and is explicitly stated as "On-site." This implies a primary work environment within a site office or a company regional office, rather than a remote or hybrid setup.

Office Location(s): The primary location is "North West England," with a postcode WA12 0JQ (St Helens), suggesting the role will be based in or closely linked to this area. This location provides access to a range of construction projects within the region.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be dynamic, involving periods spent at project sites, in site offices, and potentially in regional design or administrative offices.

• Collaboration will be a key aspect, requiring interaction with site teams, project managers, consultants, and subcontractors, often in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.

• Access to necessary design software, project documentation, and communication tools will be provided, essential for managing the design process effectively.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are 40 hours per week, typical for the construction industry. However, project demands may necessitate some flexibility, including occasional longer hours or weekend work during critical phases, particularly around tender submissions or key construction milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" nature of the role is a critical factor for candidates to consider. This means regular presence at construction sites, which can involve varied conditions and requires a practical, hands-on approach to managing design. Candidates should be comfortable with this environment and understand the implications for daily work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and application to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the core requirements.

• First Interview: Likely with a hiring manager (e.g., Project Director, Head of Design) to discuss experience, technical skills, understanding of design management principles, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your approach to key responsibilities like risk management and stakeholder collaboration.

• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio showcasing previous projects, design strategies, and problem-solving approaches. This could involve a specific case study on managing a complex design challenge or a project where sustainability was a key focus.

• Second Interview/Assessment: Potentially with senior leadership or a panel, focusing on strategic thinking, commercial acumen, leadership potential, and adaptability. This stage might include scenario-based questions or a more in-depth discussion of company values and the "Robertson Way."

• Pre-employment Screening: Subject to references and potentially other checks as outlined in the job description.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your experience in managing the full design lifecycle, from concept to construction. Highlight your role in decision-making and problem-solving.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to showcase achievements – e.g., cost savings realized through design optimization, reduction in design-related RFI’s, successful integration of sustainability features, or timely delivery of design packages.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating specific skills (e.g., risk management, stakeholder coordination, sustainability integration). Use clear visuals, concise descriptions, and focus on your direct contributions.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your systematic approach to design management, including how you utilize company procedures, manage subcontractors, conduct appraisals, and mitigate risks.

• Showcase "Seeing Differently": Prepare specific examples of how you have challenged conventional thinking, introduced innovative solutions, or adapted plans effectively to overcome unexpected issues within a project.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions asking how you would handle specific design challenges, manage difficult stakeholders, or respond to unexpected site conditions impacting design.

• Company Values Alignment: Be ready to discuss how your approach aligns with "The Robertson Way" principles (Listening, Professionalism, Responsibility, Determination, One Team). Prepare examples that illustrate these values in action.

• Sustainability Focus: Understand current trends in sustainable construction and Net Carbon targets; be prepared to discuss how these can be practically integrated into design and delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "seeing things differently" and "sustainability" means interviewers will be looking for candidates who can articulate forward-thinking approaches. A portfolio that clearly demonstrates innovation, adaptability, and a commitment to sustainable practices will be highly advantageous. Candidates should be prepared to discuss specific instances where they have applied these principles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with industry-standard project management platforms for tracking design progress, timelines, and communication (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Primavera P6, MS Project).

• Design Software/Platforms: While not directly designing, understanding and interacting with CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD), BIM software (e.g., Revit), and potentially 3D modeling tools is crucial for appraising design information and collaborating with designers.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms for storing, sharing, and versioning design documents and specifications.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in generating reports on design progress, risk assessments, and project status using standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

• Data Analysis: Ability to analyze design information for adequacy, cost implications, and risk factors, using spreadsheets or basic analytical tools.

CRM & Automation:

• Company Procedural Systems: Adherence to and utilization of Robertson Group's internal procedural systems and communication protocols is paramount.

• Communication Platforms: Effective use of email, video conferencing (e.g., Teams, Zoom), and potentially internal collaboration tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't detailed, a Design Manager in construction is expected to be proficient with common project management and collaboration tools. A strong understanding of BIM (Building Information Modelling) and its role in design coordination and project delivery is increasingly important in the industry and would be a significant advantage. The ability to work with and interpret information from various design software is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Listening: Actively listening to team members, consultants, and clients to foster collaborative problem-solving and ensure all voices are heard.

• Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of diligence, care, and attention to detail in all design management activities, ensuring certainty and trust in deliverables.

• Responsibility: Taking ownership of design process management, safety considerations, and project outcomes, recognizing the impact of decisions on the team, community, and environment.

• Determination to Succeed: Approaching design challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset, focusing on safety, productivity, and quality to deliver proud and beneficial outcomes.

• One Team: Working collaboratively with all project stakeholders, respecting contributions, and acting as a unified force within Team Robertson.

Collaboration Style:

• A highly collaborative and integrated approach is expected, working closely with project managers, site teams, external consultants, and supply chain partners.

• Emphasis on open communication, constructive feedback, and a shared commitment to project success and company values.

• A culture that encourages sharing knowledge and best practices, particularly concerning design innovations, sustainability, and efficient processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Robertson Way" principles are central to the company's culture. Candidates should be able to articulate how they embody these values in their professional conduct and decision-making, especially in the context of design management and project delivery. The emphasis on "listening" and "one team" suggests a supportive but results-driven environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Constraints: Managing competing demands from clients, design consultants, subcontractors, budget limitations, and site conditions while ensuring quality and safety.

• Navigating Complex Supply Chains: Effectively managing and coordinating multiple specialist designers and subcontractors, ensuring their work is integrated and meets project standards.

• Driving Sustainability Initiatives: Championing and practically implementing Net Carbon and sustainability targets within design, which can sometimes face resistance or require significant innovation.

• Adapting to Project Changes: Responding effectively to unforeseen site conditions, client requests, or regulatory changes that impact design, requiring quick problem-solving and plan modification.

• Maintaining Up-to-Date Technical Knowledge: Keeping abreast of evolving construction technologies, materials, and sustainability standards to ensure designs are current and effective.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas such as BIM, sustainable design, advanced risk management, or specific construction methodologies through internal training and external courses.

• Industry Engagement: Potential to attend industry conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay current with best practices and network with peers.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Access to mentorship from senior leaders within Robertson Group and opportunities to develop leadership skills through managing teams and complex projects.

• Career Progression: Clear pathways for advancement within the company, from Design Manager to more senior roles in project management or design leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges present opportunities for growth. Candidates who can demonstrate resilience, innovative problem-solving, and a proactive approach to learning will be well-suited for this role and will find ample opportunities for professional development within Robertson Group.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a significant design risk. What was the risk, how did you identify it, and what mitigation strategies did you implement?" (Focus on risk assessment, mitigation planning, and successful outcomes).

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication between consultant designers, specialist subcontractors, and the site delivery team?" (Highlight stakeholder management, communication protocols, and conflict resolution).

• "Walk us through a project where sustainability or Net Carbon targets were a key consideration. What was your role in integrating these into the design, and what were the challenges and successes?" (Demonstrate understanding of sustainability, problem-solving, and impact).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you see your approach to design management aligning with Robertson's principles of 'The Robertson Way'?" (Prepare specific examples for each principle: Listening, Professionalism, Responsibility, Determination, One Team).

• "What does 'seeing things differently' mean to you in the context of construction design management?" (Focus on innovation, problem-solving, and challenging norms).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio projects as narratives, detailing the challenge, your approach, the actions taken, and the results achieved (STAR method – Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, drawings, and photos to illustrate design concepts, challenges, and solutions. Keep text concise and impactful.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, risk reduction).

• Demonstrate Process: Clearly articulate your systematic approach to design management, including how you ensure quality, safety, and adherence to procedures.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize aspects of your experience that directly relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description, particularly risk management, stakeholder coordination, and sustainability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their experience using specific examples and to connect their past achievements to the company's stated values and the specific demands of the Design Manager role. The interview process likely aims to assess not only technical competence but also cultural fit and strategic thinking.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Robertson Group careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize your CV: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in design management within the construction sector, emphasizing responsibilities such as project design development, risk mitigation, stakeholder management, and sustainability integration. Use keywords from the job description where relevant.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate a selection of 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your capabilities. Focus on showcasing your process, problem-solving skills, and quantifiable achievements, especially related to design appraisal, risk management, and sustainability.

• Research Robertson Group: Familiarize yourself with their projects, company values ("The Robertson Way"), and any recent news or sustainability initiatives. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to discuss your experience using the STAR method, focusing on examples that align with the role's responsibilities and the company's culture. Practice articulating your approach to design challenges and your understanding of industry best practices.

⚠️ 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.