Design Manager - Aviation / Building Services

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Aviation / Building Services

Company: Galliford Try

Location: Stansted, Essex, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-11-05T09:20:37

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (Implied 5-10 years based on role complexity)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Implied from "Agile Working" and "site and office-based employees can take advantage of a wide variety of working practices")

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage electrical and building services design activities within the Asset Intelligence Aviation business unit, ensuring the delivery of safe, compliant, and innovative engineering solutions.

• Oversee the planning, allocation, and management of design resources to support successful project delivery from initial concept through to handover.

• Provide technical leadership and specialist support to project teams, clients, and stakeholders, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

• Ensure all design activities adhere to relevant legislation, industry standards, CDM requirements, and internal governance processes, with a strong emphasis on quality assurance and regulatory compliance.

• Drive the adoption of best practices and digital engineering solutions to enhance design efficiency and project outcomes within complex aviation infrastructure environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within Galliford Try's Asset Intelligence business unit, focusing on aviation infrastructure. The "Design Manager" title, coupled with responsibilities like leading teams, overseeing resources, and ensuring compliance, indicates a significant operational and technical leadership component. The emphasis on aviation and building services implies a need for deep understanding of complex, regulated environments where safety, compliance, and operational efficiency are paramount. The role requires a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and people leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and develop the design team, fostering a collaborative environment focused on technical excellence and continuous improvement.

• Oversee the strategic planning and allocation of design resources to ensure optimal support for project delivery timelines and objectives.

• Ensure strict adherence to all relevant legislation, industry standards, CDM regulations, and internal governance frameworks throughout the design lifecycle.

• Provide authoritative technical leadership, specialist advice, and guidance to project teams, clients, consultants, and supply chain partners.

• Conduct and lead technical reviews, site visits, and engagements with design consultants, subcontractors, and suppliers to validate design integrity and buildability.

• Develop, review, and approve comprehensive technical scopes, specifications, and innovative design solutions that precisely meet client operational requirements and project mandates.

• Contribute essential technical input and design expertise to tendering processes and project delivery teams to secure and execute projects effectively.

• Review and formally approve all design deliverables, ensuring they meet stringent quality standards, regulatory compliance, and overarching project objectives.

• Champion innovation and continuous improvement initiatives, actively promoting the adoption of best practices and advanced digital engineering solutions.

• Manage design changes rigorously through formal change control processes, assessing and documenting commercial impacts where necessary.

• Ensure the seamless and effective handover of all design information to construction, commissioning, and operational teams for smooth project execution and ongoing facility management.

• Actively support the recruitment, professional development, and mentorship of design team members, guiding individuals towards achieving their career aspirations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a managerial role with significant oversight of the design process, team, and client interactions within a highly regulated sector. The inclusion of "commercial impacts," "tendering," and "supply chain" points to the operational and business-critical nature of the role, extending beyond pure technical design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A formal engineering qualification (e.g., Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Building Services Engineering, or a related discipline) is highly preferred.

• Professional accreditation or chartered status with a relevant engineering body (e.g., CEng, MIET, CIBSE) would be advantageous. Experience:

• Proven track record in managing and leading design teams within complex engineering or construction projects, demonstrating expertise in process optimization and workflow management.

• Substantial experience in the aviation or critical infrastructure sectors, with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and regulatory landscapes involved.

• Experience in managing design changes, implementing formal change control processes, and assessing commercial implications. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead, coordinate, and manage multi-disciplinary design efforts, ensuring timely and compliant delivery.

• Technical Leadership: Expertise in electrical and building services engineering, with the capacity to provide authoritative technical guidance and problem-solving.

• Regulatory Compliance: In-depth knowledge of CDM regulations, health and safety legislation, and relevant industry standards (e.g., BS 7671, CIBSE guidelines) within aviation environments.

• Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively engage and influence diverse stakeholders, including clients, consultants, operational teams, and supply chain partners.

Preferred Skills:

• Digital Engineering: Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modelling) standards and digital engineering tools for enhanced design collaboration and visualization.

• Commercial Acumen: Understanding of project financials, contract management, and the ability to assess commercial impacts of design decisions.

• Aviation Systems Knowledge: Specific experience with airport operational systems, airside infrastructure, and related building services (e.g., baggage handling systems, air traffic control interfaces, power distribution for critical facilities).

• Team Development: Experience in mentoring, coaching, and developing engineering talent to foster team growth and technical capability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires a blend of strong technical engineering knowledge, robust project and team management skills, and a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory framework specific to aviation. The emphasis on "fast-paced, multi-site infrastructure environments" and "live aviation environments" highlights the need for practical, hands-on experience in managing design within operational constraints.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Demonstrable examples of leading complex design projects, showcasing your approach to problem-solving, innovation, and successful project execution.

• Process Optimization Examples: Evidence of implementing improvements to design workflows, standards, or quality assurance processes, highlighting efficiency gains and quality enhancements.

• Team Leadership & Development: Documentation or descriptions of how you have managed, mentored, and developed design teams, fostering technical growth and collaborative environments.

• Compliance & Quality Assurance: Examples of how you have ensured design compliance with regulations (e.g., CDM, safety standards) and maintained high-quality deliverables through rigorous review processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to document and articulate current design workflows, identify bottlenecks, and propose data-driven strategies for optimization and efficiency.

• Implementation of Best Practices: Experience in developing and implementing standard operating procedures for design, ensuring consistency, quality, and adherence to best practices.

• Performance Measurement: Capability to define key performance indicators (KPIs) for design processes and teams, and to track and report on performance against these metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should showcase not just technical output but also the candidate's ability to manage processes, lead teams, and drive operational excellence. The focus should be on demonstrating strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and a commitment to delivering value through effective design management within complex projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for this Design Manager position in the Stansted, UK area, based on experience level (5-10 years), industry standards for construction and engineering management, and the specific responsibilities outlined, is approximately £60,000 - £85,000 per annum.

Benefits:

• Generous holiday entitlement, increasing with years of service, with the option to purchase additional holidays.

• A wide range of corporate discounts available.

• Access to Cycle to Work schemes.

• Comprehensive company pension plan.

• Opportunity to participate in the Regular Save as You Earn share purchase scheme.

• Option for private medical scheme for salaried employees.

• Employee assistance programme offering free 24/7 support.

• Paid yearly membership to one recognised professional association relevant to the role. Working Hours:

The standard working hours are 40 hours per week. Galliford Try promotes "Agile Working," which offers flexibility in when, where, and how work is performed, with specific arrangements to be discussed and agreed upon based on role, team needs, and business requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on UK construction and engineering management roles in the South East of England, considering the seniority implied by the title and responsibilities. It aligns with industry benchmarks for Design Managers with significant experience in specialized sectors like aviation. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting Galliford Try's commitment to employee well-being and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure Services, with a specialization in Asset Intelligence and Aviation.

Company Size: Galliford Try is a large organization, listed as one of the UK's leading principal contractors, indicating a significant employee base (likely >5,000 employees). This size provides stability and opportunities for large-scale project involvement.

Founded: Galliford Try has a long history in the construction sector, suggesting a well-established corporate structure, mature processes, and a deep understanding of the industry.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: The Design Manager will lead and coordinate a team of design professionals (electrical and building services engineers, designers). This team likely operates within the broader Asset Intelligence Aviation business unit.

• Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Technical Director, indicating a clear hierarchical structure within the technical and design function.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role necessitates close collaboration with project management teams, client representatives, airport operators, consultants, subcontractors, supply chain partners, construction teams, commissioning engineers, and operational staff.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Emphasis on using data to inform design decisions, assess performance, and drive continuous improvement.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Structured approach to defining, managing, and refining design processes to enhance efficiency, quality, and compliance.

• Automation & Efficiency: Encouragement to adopt digital engineering solutions and best practices to streamline operations and improve project outcomes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try's emphasis on being "people-orientated, progressive business, driven by our values" and its purpose of "improving people’s lives through building the facilities and infrastructure that communities need" suggests a culture that values professional development, collaboration, and making a tangible impact. The "Asset Intelligence Aviation" focus implies a specialized, high-stakes environment where precision, safety, and reliability are paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within operations and technical management. It requires significant experience in design engineering and a proven ability to manage teams, projects, and stakeholders in a complex environment. The scope includes technical oversight, strategic resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with stringent industry regulations.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports directly to the Technical Director, indicating a key leadership role within the technical department. This position likely acts as a conduit between senior leadership and the design engineering team, translating strategic objectives into actionable design plans.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role has a direct and substantial impact on project success, client satisfaction, safety, and profitability. By ensuring high-quality, compliant, and buildable designs, they mitigate risks, control costs, and contribute to the efficient delivery of critical aviation infrastructure, thereby directly supporting the company's revenue generation and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into more senior technical or operational leadership roles, such as Head of Design, Technical Director, or Project Director, within the Asset Intelligence or wider Galliford Try business.

• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunities to deepen expertise in aviation infrastructure design, digital engineering, or specific building services specialisms, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Functional Development: Exposure to various facets of large-scale project delivery, including commercial aspects, construction management, and client relations, offering a broader understanding of the business.

• Mentorship & Training: Access to Galliford Try's "Career Paths" initiative and leadership development frameworks, providing tailored support for professional and career progression.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, established construction group. The emphasis on "leadership development framework" and "Career Paths initiative" suggests a structured approach to employee growth, particularly for those in managerial positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as Hybrid, with the company promoting "Agile Working." This suggests a blend of office-based work for collaboration, team meetings, and strategic planning, and remote work for focused individual tasks. The office environment is likely professional, with facilities designed to support engineering and project management activities.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Stansted, Essex. This strategic location is likely chosen due to proximity to major aviation hubs and infrastructure projects.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among design teams, project managers, and other stakeholders, supporting the "Agile Working" ethos.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard office amenities, IT infrastructure, and potentially specialized design software and hardware necessary for engineering and building services design.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with the immediate design team, reporting lines to the Technical Director, and frequent engagement with project teams and external partners.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours per week, the "Agile Working" policy offers flexibility. This could include variations in start/end times, compressed workweeks, or hybrid remote/office arrangements, designed to balance individual needs with operational requirements and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Agile Working" policy is a key aspect, indicating a modern approach to work arrangements that prioritizes flexibility while maintaining operational effectiveness. For an operations role, this flexibility can be crucial for managing demanding project schedules and ensuring work-life balance.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application, potentially with a brief HR or Resourcing Partner call to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager (Technical Director) and potentially senior members of the design team. Focus on technical expertise, design management experience, and understanding of aviation/building services.

• Competency-Based Interview: Assessment of behavioral competencies such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and alignment with company values.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of selected design projects and process improvements from the candidate's portfolio. This is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills and experience.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior leader, focusing on strategic fit, long-term vision, and cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 significant projects that best showcase your design management capabilities, problem-solving skills, and impact on project outcomes.

• Highlight Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the design challenges, your management approach, the processes you implemented or improved, and the measurable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, enhanced safety, operational efficiency).

• Demonstrate Leadership: Include examples of how you led and developed your team, managed stakeholders, and ensured compliance.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss specific design solutions, technical challenges, and your decision-making rationale.

• Showcase Digital Engineering: If applicable, present examples of BIM utilization or other digital tools that enhanced the design process.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios related to managing design conflicts, handling scope changes, addressing project delays, or resolving team issues.

• Process Improvement Task: The company might present a case study or a hypothetical design challenge requiring you to outline your approach to problem-solving, planning, and execution, focusing on efficiency and compliance.

• Stakeholder Communication: Practice articulating complex technical information clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Design Manager in this sector will likely be rigorous, focusing on both technical depth and managerial capabilities. A well-prepared portfolio that demonstrates a structured, efficient, and compliant approach to design operations is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit (for BIM), and potentially Bentley Systems products.

• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modelling (BIM) platforms like Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, and understanding of BIM execution plans.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for planning, scheduling, and resource allocation.

• Design Collaboration Tools: Experience with platforms that facilitate collaborative design reviews and document management (e.g., BIM 360, Aconex).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from design performance metrics, project schedules, and potentially operational feedback.

• Reporting Software: Proficiency in generating reports and presentations using tools like Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and potentially BI tools for dashboard creation.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing, organizing, and retrieving design documentation and project records.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to leverage technology to automate repetitive design tasks or approval processes, enhancing efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, the nature of the role in aviation infrastructure and building services strongly implies a need for expertise in advanced CAD/BIM software and project management tools. Emphasis on digital engineering suggests a forward-thinking approach to technology adoption.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, particularly concerning safety, compliance, and client relationships.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication, shared knowledge, and mutual support are paramount for collective success.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and technically sound engineering solutions that meet and exceed client expectations.

• Safety & Compliance: Prioritizing the health and safety of all stakeholders and ensuring strict adherence to all relevant regulations and standards.

• Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies, best practices, and creative problem-solving to drive efficiency and improve outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with diverse teams (project management, construction, operations, clients, consultants) to ensure seamless integration of design into the broader project lifecycle.

• Process Review & Feedback: Encouraging a culture of continuous improvement through regular review of design processes, seeking and providing constructive feedback.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise are shared freely among team members and across projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try explicitly states its values: Delivering Excellence, Being Passionate, Putting Integrity First, and Collaborating. The company culture emphasizes a people-oriented, progressive approach, valuing professional development and making a positive impact. This will likely translate into a collaborative, results-driven, and safety-conscious team environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the diverse requirements of airport operators, regulatory bodies, project teams, and internal stakeholders within a high-pressure environment.

• Ensuring Compliance in Live Environments: Navigating the complexities of designing and implementing solutions within operational airports, where safety, security, and minimal disruption are critical.

• Adopting Digital Transformation: Driving the adoption and effective implementation of digital engineering tools and processes across a team and project portfolio.

• Resource Management: Optimizing the allocation of design resources across multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of aviation engineering or building services, potentially through external courses or certifications.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to Galliford Try's established leadership frameworks and training to enhance management and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Exposure: Working on high-profile, complex aviation infrastructure projects provides invaluable experience and exposure to cutting-edge practices and technologies.

• Professional Networking: Engaging with a wide network of industry professionals, clients, and partners through project work and potential professional association involvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior role in a complex, regulated industry. The growth opportunities are substantial, leveraging the scale of Galliford Try's operations and commitment to employee development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex design project you managed from inception to handover. What were the key challenges, your management approach, and the final outcomes?" (Focus on process, leadership, and results).

• "How do you ensure design compliance with CDM regulations and other critical safety standards in an aviation environment?" (Demonstrate regulatory knowledge and risk mitigation strategies).

• "Walk us through your process for managing design changes and their commercial implications." (Highlight structured change control and commercial awareness). Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within a design team?" (Align with company values and digital engineering focus).

• "Describe a time you had to influence a difficult stakeholder to adopt a particular design solution. How did you approach it?" (Assess communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills).

• "How do you align design operations with the broader project delivery and operational needs of an airport?" (Show understanding of the end-to-end project lifecycle and client focus). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an executive summary of your role and responsibilities. For each case study, clearly outline the project context, the specific design challenge, your management and process interventions, the results achieved (quantified where possible), and lessons learned.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize how you managed the design process, implemented quality controls, and facilitated collaboration.

• Highlight Impact: Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., % reduction in design errors, % cost savings, schedule adherence).

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about specific technical decisions, design choices, and problem-solving methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of technical expertise, robust operational management skills, effective leadership, and a deep understanding of the aviation sector's unique demands.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights 2-3 key aviation or complex building services design projects, emphasizing your leadership, process management, and problem-solving contributions.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to explicitly mention experience with CDM regulations, aviation infrastructure, building services, design team management, and digital engineering tools. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions and prepare a compelling presentation of your portfolio.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Galliford Try's values, recent projects (particularly in aviation), and their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Understand their "Asset Intelligence" focus.

⚠️ 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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