Design Manager - Part or Full Time

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Part or Full Time

Company: Walter Lilly

Location: Weybridge, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Construction Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-05-22T12:21:38

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design development process from conceptualization through to construction execution in a fast-paced construction environment.

• Drive cross-functional collaboration between architects, consultants, subcontractors, and internal project teams to ensure seamless design integration and issue resolution.

• Uphold rigorous quality control by meticulously reviewing drawings and specifications for accuracy, buildability, regulatory compliance, and adherence to company standards.

• Maintain meticulous design documentation through effective collaboration with Document Controllers, ensuring timely distribution and strict version control.

• Proactively monitor design deliverables against critical project timelines, identifying and escalating potential delays or risks to senior management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Design Manager with explicit requirements for experience within a main contractor setting, indicating a focus on the practical application of design principles within large-scale construction projects. The mention of "landmark and heritage buildings" alongside "state-of-the-art science and higher education facilities" suggests exposure to diverse and complex project types, requiring a broad understanding of construction methodologies and design coordination.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Assist the Senior Design Manager in overseeing the comprehensive design development lifecycle, from initial concept to final construction documentation, ensuring alignment with project specifications and client expectations.

• Facilitate and manage effective communication channels between external design consultants (architects, engineers) and internal project stakeholders, including site teams and commercial departments, to resolve design discrepancies and technical queries efficiently.

• Conduct thorough reviews of all design-related documentation, including architectural drawings, structural calculations, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) designs, and specifications, to ensure buildability, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with all relevant UK building regulations, health and safety legislation, and Walter Lilly's internal quality standards.

• Collaborate closely with the Document Controller to establish and maintain a robust system for managing all design-related information, ensuring accurate version control, timely circulation of updated documents, and an easily accessible archive for project reference.

• Proactively track the progress of all design deliverables against the master project program, identifying potential bottlenecks, resource constraints, or risks that could impact project timelines, and report these issues promptly to the Senior Design Manager with proposed mitigation strategies.

• Support the commercial and estimating teams by contributing to the development of cost-effective design solutions that meet project objectives without compromising on quality, safety, or aesthetic requirements.

• Provide direct design-related support to the construction team during the site execution phases, including attending site progress meetings, responding to Requests for Information (RFIs), and resolving on-site design challenges to minimize disruption and maintain project momentum.

• Champion and ensure the strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards and company policies throughout the design process, from initial concept to the final construction detailing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to design management within a main contractor context. Key areas of focus include coordinating external consultants, ensuring compliance with UK regulations, managing documentation, and providing on-site support. The emphasis on "buildability" and "cost-effective design solutions" indicates a strong commercial and practical orientation, common in main contractor design management roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in design management roles, specifically within a main contractor environment on complex construction projects.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in managing the design development process for large-scale construction projects, from concept to construction documentation.

• Strong understanding of construction processes, methodologies, and sequencing.

• In-depth knowledge of UK building regulations, planning policies, and relevant industry standards.

• Excellent capabilities in design coordination, ensuring integration of architectural, structural, MEP, and specialist systems.

• Demonstrated ability to effectively liaise with and manage relationships among multiple stakeholders, including clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams.

• Proficiency in managing multiple design packages and competing deadlines simultaneously in a high-pressure environment.

• A proactive and solutions-oriented approach to identifying and resolving complex design and technical challenges.

• Proficiency in industry-standard design software, including AutoCAD and Revit.

Preferred Skills:

• Membership in a relevant professional body (e.g., RIBA, ICE, CIOB).

• Experience with heritage and landmark building construction projects.

• Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) Level 2 or higher.

• Experience in contract administration and procurement processes related to design services.

• Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations within the construction industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level (5-10 years) suggests a mid-to-senior level role, capable of independent management of design packages with oversight from a Senior Design Manager. The required skills emphasize practical construction knowledge and stakeholder management, critical for a main contractor role. Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit is standard, but the "buildability review" and "project timeline monitoring" requirements point towards a focus on practical execution and schedule adherence.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 detailed case studies demonstrating successful design management on complex construction projects.

• Each case study should clearly outline the project's scope, your specific role and responsibilities, the design challenges encountered, and the solutions implemented.

• Evidence of successful coordination with various consultants (architects, structural engineers, MEP engineers) and effective resolution of design conflicts.

• Examples of design reviews conducted, highlighting how buildability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance were assessed and ensured.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate understanding of typical main contractor design process workflows, from pre-construction through to site delivery.

• Provide examples of how design information is controlled, tracked, and distributed within a project environment, including version control procedures.

• Illustrate experience with or understanding of document management systems and their role in design coordination.

• Showcase an ability to contribute to or develop design execution plans and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, particularly within construction, a portfolio is crucial. It needs to go beyond just listing projects; it should demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage processes, solve complex design coordination issues, and influence outcomes. The emphasis on "buildability," "cost-effectiveness," and "timeline adherence" in the portfolio requirements aligns with the practical demands of a main contractor.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the UK construction sector, particularly in the South East, the estimated salary range is £55,000 - £75,000 per annum. This range can vary based on the complexity of projects managed, specific technical skills, and the candidate's overall experience.

• London/South East Premium: Weybridge is within a high-cost-of-living area, and the construction market in London and the South East typically commands a premium.

• Research Methodology: This estimate is derived from reviewing data from reputable UK salary survey providers, recruitment agency reports for construction roles, and job board salary data for similar positions in comparable locations.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary package.

• Generous annual leave entitlement: 26 days per year.

• Comprehensive private medical insurance for enhanced healthcare access.

• Critical illness cover for financial security in unforeseen circumstances.

• Company pension scheme with automatic enrolment, offering a structured retirement savings plan.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• While the role is primarily site-based, flexibility may be expected to meet project demands, including occasional extended hours or site visits during critical phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided benefits are standard for professional roles in the UK construction industry and reflect a company that values employee well-being and financial security. The salary estimate is based on typical market rates for a Design Manager with the specified experience in a competitive region like the South East of England.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction Services (specializing in high-quality construction for landmark, heritage, science, and higher education facilities).

Company Size: Walter Lilly is a well-established firm with over 100 years of experience. While exact current employee numbers are not provided, the description suggests a company with significant project capacity and a substantial workforce to manage complex projects. This indicates a structured yet potentially collaborative environment.

Founded: Over 100 years ago, signifying a long history of stability, expertise, and a strong reputation in the construction sector.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will work within a project-specific team structure, reporting to a Senior Design Manager.

• This role involves significant collaboration with external design consultants (architects, engineers) and internal departments such as Project Management, Commercial, and Site Operations.

Methodology:

• Walter Lilly focuses on delivering "bold, complex projects" and working with "industry-leading architects, engineers, and highly skilled tradespeople." This suggests a commitment to high standards, quality craftsmanship, and meticulous project execution.

• The company promotes a spirit of collaboration and integrity, honesty, and fairness in its operations.

• As an Equal Opportunities Employer, they strive for a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace.

Company Website: https://careers.walterlilly.co.uk

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is described as collaborative, valuing both experience and innovation. The focus on "landmark and heritage buildings" implies a commitment to quality and attention to detail, which likely translates into rigorous project management and design processes. The emphasis on integrity, honesty, and fairness, along with being an Equal Opportunities Employer, suggests a professional and ethical working environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a mid-to-senior level within the design management function of a main contractor. It requires independent management of design coordination and problem-solving, with oversight from a Senior Design Manager. It’s a critical position for ensuring the successful technical delivery of construction projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report directly to a Senior Design Manager, who likely oversees multiple projects or larger, more complex design aspects. This structure provides a clear line of mentorship and escalation. The role also requires extensive interaction with project managers, site teams, and external design consultants.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is pivotal to the success of construction projects. By ensuring accurate, buildable, and compliant designs, they directly influence project timelines, budget adherence, quality of build, and overall client satisfaction. Effective design management minimizes costly errors, delays, and rework during the construction phase, directly contributing to project profitability and the company's reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to Senior Design Manager: With demonstrated success and experience, there is a clear path to managing larger and more complex design portfolios independently.

• Specialization: Opportunity to develop expertise in specific project types (e.g., heritage, science facilities) or technical areas within design management.

• Project Management Track: Potential to transition into broader project management roles, leveraging a deep understanding of the design and technical aspects of construction.

• Leadership Development: Walter Lilly's emphasis on combining experience with new talent suggests opportunities for mentorship and leadership training, particularly for those showing potential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "5-10 years" experience level is a strong indicator of a role designed for individuals ready to take on significant responsibility. The reporting structure to a Senior Design Manager implies a learning and development component, with opportunities for growth into more independent leadership roles within the company's project delivery framework.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as "On-site" and mentions "remote project location" and "site based staff," indicating that the primary work environment will be construction sites. While there might be a head office or regional office for administrative tasks, the core of the role involves being present at the project locations for coordination and problem-solving.

Office Location(s): Weybridge, England, United Kingdom. However, the role requires significant travel to various project sites across London and the South East of England. A full UK driving licence is beneficial due to the nature of site-based work.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely be a combination of site cabins, temporary site offices, and potentially client offices or consultant studios, depending on project phase and needs.

• Collaboration will be frequent, involving direct interaction with site teams, subcontractors, architects, and engineers.

• Access to project documentation, drawings, and potentially site-specific software and communication tools will be essential.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of construction projects, there may be an expectation for flexibility, including occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, attend site meetings, or resolve urgent issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" work arrangement is critical here. It means the candidate must be comfortable with the dynamic and often challenging environment of a construction site, including potential exposure to varying weather conditions and the need for robust communication and problem-solving skills in real-time. The mention of a driving licence is a practical necessity for a role that requires movement between sites.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess alignment with core requirements, particularly main contractor experience and technical skills.

• First Interview: Likely with the Senior Design Manager or a Project Director. Focus on technical experience, design management approach, understanding of construction processes, and stakeholder management skills. Expect behavioral questions related to problem-solving and teamwork.

• Portfolio Presentation (Potentially): Candidates may be asked to present selected case studies from their portfolio, demonstrating their ability to manage complex design challenges, coordinate effectively, and deliver solutions.

• Second Interview/Final Stage: May involve meeting with senior leadership, HR, or a wider project team. This stage often assesses cultural fit, long-term potential, and final alignment with company values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Selection: Choose 3-5 projects that best represent your design management capabilities, ideally showcasing experience with the types of projects Walter

Lilly undertakes (heritage, landmark, science, education).

• Structure: For each case study, clearly articulate:

  • Project Overview (type, scale, location, budget if appropriate)
  • Your Role and Responsibilities
  • Key Design Challenges (e.g., site constraints, regulatory hurdles, complex coordination)
  • Your Approach and Solutions (detailing coordination meetings, technical reviews, problem-solving steps)
  • Outcomes and Impact (e.g., on-time delivery, cost savings, quality improvements, successful buildability)

• Visual Aids: Use drawings, diagrams, and photos where appropriate to illustrate design evolution, coordination issues, and final outcomes.

• Focus on Process: Emphasize your process for reviewing drawings, coordinating with consultants, managing documentation, and ensuring buildability and compliance.

• Quantify: Where possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact (e.g., "reduced design queries by 20%", "identified cost savings of £X through buildability review").

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions, such as: "How would you resolve a conflict between architectural intent and structural feasibility?" or "What steps would you take if a key subcontractor’s design submission is significantly delayed?"

• Understand Walter Lilly's business: research their recent projects, values, and approach to construction.

• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the team, projects, challenges, and growth opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and scenario-based questions suggests that Walter Lilly values practical application and problem-solving. Candidates should be ready to articulate their design management process and demonstrate how they handle real-world construction challenges.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: Essential for reviewing and understanding 2D drawings and technical plans.

• Revit: Crucial for working with BIM models, reviewing 3D designs, clash detection, and understanding complex building information.

• Document Management Systems (DMS): Proficiency with systems like Aconex, Procore, or similar platforms for managing project documentation, drawings, RFIs, and submittals is highly desirable.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as a primary tool, the ability to interpret project schedules and potentially basic cost reports will be necessary.

CRM & Automation:

• Not typically a core requirement for a Design Manager in construction, as their focus is project-specific design coordination rather than customer relationship management. However, understanding how design information integrates with project management and commercial systems is key.

• Experience with project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6) might be beneficial for understanding program implications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of AutoCAD and Revit points to the core technical software requirements. The inclusion of Document Management Systems (DMS) is critical for a role that involves extensive information flow and control within construction projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity, Honesty, and Fairness: These are explicitly stated core values, indicating a strong emphasis on ethical conduct and transparent dealings in all aspects of work, including design management.

• Collaboration: The company culture promotes working together with colleagues and clients, suggesting a team-oriented approach to problem-solving and project delivery.

• Quality and Excellence: Walter Lilly's reputation for delivering "high quality construction services" and working on "the finest landmark and heritage buildings" implies a deep-seated value for meticulous craftsmanship and achieving superior results.

• Innovation: While valuing experience, the company also invests in "the next generation of rising industry stars" and combines "invaluable experience with fresh, innovative thinking," suggesting an openness to new ideas and methodologies in design and construction.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The Design Manager will need to foster strong working relationships with architects, engineers, subcontractors, project managers, and site teams, ensuring seamless information flow and problem-solving.

• Proactive Communication: Given the fast-paced nature of construction, a proactive and clear communication style is essential for managing design queries, updates, and resolving conflicts before they impact progress.

• Feedback Loop: The culture of combining experience with new thinking suggests an environment where constructive feedback is valued, encouraging continuous improvement in design processes and project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicitly stated values of integrity, honesty, and fairness, alongside a collaborative approach, are key indicators of Walter Lilly's operational philosophy. Candidates should demonstrate how their work ethic and collaboration style align with these principles, particularly in managing complex stakeholder relationships within construction projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Design Complexity: Working on "landmark and heritage buildings" alongside "state-of-the-art science and higher education facilities" presents diverse design challenges, from preserving historical integrity to implementing cutting-edge technology.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Coordinating the needs and expectations of multiple parties (clients, architects, engineers, heritage bodies, internal teams) can be complex and requires strong negotiation and communication skills.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to evolving building regulations, planning laws, and specific site constraints while maintaining design integrity requires constant vigilance and up-to-date knowledge.

• Balancing Quality and Cost: Delivering high-quality, buildable designs within budget constraints is a perpetual challenge in construction, requiring careful consideration of material choices, construction methods, and value engineering.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Gaining experience across a broad spectrum of high-profile construction projects offers significant learning opportunities in different architectural styles, engineering solutions, and construction techniques.

• Mentorship from Senior Staff: Working under a Senior Design Manager provides opportunities to learn advanced design management strategies, contract management, and project leadership.

• Industry Best Practices: Walter Lilly's commitment to quality and innovation suggests opportunities to engage with and implement leading practices in design coordination and construction technology.

• Professional Development: Potential for support in pursuing further professional qualifications or certifications relevant to design management and construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the demanding yet rewarding nature of the role, emphasizing the need for adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. The growth opportunities are tied to the company's prestigious project portfolio and its culture of knowledge sharing.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully managed a complex design coordination issue between architectural and structural teams on a challenging project. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and impact)

• "How do you ensure a design is not only compliant with regulations but also cost-effective and buildable from a practical standpoint?" (Focus on buildability, cost awareness, and practical application)

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing design drawings and specifications before they are issued for construction." (Focus on detail, thoroughness, and risk identification)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Walter Lilly's focus on landmark and heritage projects, as well as modern facilities?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with company specialization)

• "How do your personal values align with Walter Lilly's stated core values of integrity, honesty, and fairness?" (Showcase ethical alignment)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: Prepare to present 2-3 key case studies from your portfolio. Focus on telling a clear story about the challenge, your role, your solution, and the positive outcome.

• Highlight Your Process: For each case study, emphasize your methodology for design review, coordination, and problem-solving, rather than just the end result.

• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics where possible to demonstrate the value you brought (e.g., time saved, cost reductions, error avoidance).

• Visuals: Use clear, professional visuals (drawings, diagrams, photos) to support your presentation. Ensure any sensitive project information is anonymized or generalized.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your decision-making process, how you handle pressure, and your technical approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the construction design lifecycle, practical problem-solving skills, and effective stakeholder management. The portfolio presentation is a key component, requiring candidates to articulate their process and impact clearly.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Walter Lilly careers portal at https://careers.walterlilly.co.uk/jobs/7782440-design-manager-part-or-full-time.

• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV clearly highlights your experience with main contractors, your proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit, and your success in design coordination and buildability reviews. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 relevant projects that showcase your design management capabilities. Be ready to discuss your role, the challenges, your process, and the outcomes.

• Research Walter Lilly: Familiarize yourself with their company history, values, and portfolio of projects. Understand their specialization in landmark, heritage, science, and education facilities.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers for common interview questions, particularly those related to design coordination, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and your understanding of construction processes and regulations.

⚠️ 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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