Design Manager Southern

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Southern

Company: Knights Brown

Location: Ringwood, England, United Kingdom (Southern Region)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Management / Civil Engineering Operations

Date Posted: 2026-04-28

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the technical design and delivery of water infrastructure projects within the Southern Region, focusing on innovative and value-driven solutions.

• Coordinate and integrate multidisciplinary engineering inputs, including Civil, Structural, MEPICA, Health and Safety, Sustainability, Environmental, and Planning, to ensure holistic project development.

• Drive technical excellence across the entire design lifecycle, from feasibility studies and concept design through to detailed design, addressing client challenges effectively.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with internal teams, clients, and supply chain partners to achieve buildable, high-quality technical outcomes and secure stakeholder buy-in.

• Manage design risks and commercial requirements inherent in complex multidisciplinary design and build projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a contractor's operations framework, emphasizing the practical application of design principles in delivering real-world infrastructure projects. The focus on "technical delivery" and "buildable solutions" indicates a hands-on, results-oriented approach to design management, distinct from purely conceptual design roles. The target candidate will likely bridge the gap between design intent and construction reality.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Collaborate closely with the Pre-Construction team to define and execute the design strategy for water projects in the South Western Region.

• Coordinate and manage multidisciplinary technical teams, ensuring seamless integration of Civil, Structural, MEPICA, Health and Safety, Sustainability, Environmental, and Planning disciplines.

• Drive technical delivery by leading design development, options appraisal, concept design, and detailed design for infrastructure projects.

• Actively engage with internal stakeholders, clients, and supply chain partners to champion proposed design solutions and secure necessary approvals and buy-in.

• Ensure that all technical outcomes are buildable, cost-effective, and meet the highest standards of quality and client satisfaction.

• Develop and implement robust risk management strategies for design and build projects, ensuring a clear understanding of commercial implications.

• Conduct feasibility studies, options appraisals, and concept designs to identify the most viable and innovative solutions for client challenges.

• Oversee the development of technical documentation, drawings, and specifications in line with project requirements and regulatory standards.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and methodologies within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project coordination, and stakeholder management. The emphasis on "value-driven solutions" and "addressing client challenges" suggests a problem-solving orientation, requiring the Design Manager to be adept at translating complex requirements into practical engineering designs.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Civil Engineering) or equivalent practical experience.

Experience:

• Proven experience in civil engineering projects from either a design or contracting background.

• Substantial experience in managing the design lifecycle of complex multidisciplinary infrastructure projects.

Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of civil engineering principles and their application in infrastructure projects.

• Proficiency in design management, including coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing design deliverables.

• Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus.

• Clear understanding of the commercial requirements and delivery risks associated with design and build projects.

• Ability to develop integrated and innovative technical solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Broad knowledge of multiple engineering disciplines, including Mechanical, Electrical, and Process engineering.

• Experience with temporary works design and its implications.

• Familiarity with project management methodologies and tools relevant to infrastructure development.

• Experience in the water sector or related utilities infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a practical, hands-on understanding of civil engineering within a contracting environment. The mention of "commercial requirements" and "delivery risk" indicates a need for a candidate who can balance technical excellence with business objectives. The desirable skills point towards a candidate who can offer a broader perspective across engineering disciplines.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 significant civil engineering projects, ideally within the water sector or similar infrastructure.

• Clearly demonstrate your role and contributions in leading design development, from initial concept to detailed design and buildability.

• Highlight instances of successful multidisciplinary coordination, illustrating how diverse engineering inputs were integrated.

• Provide evidence of managing design risks and commercial considerations within project delivery.

Process Documentation:

• For each project in your portfolio, outline the key design stages and your involvement in each.

• Detail the methodologies used for stakeholder engagement and how buy-in was secured for proposed solutions.

• Document the process for identifying and mitigating design risks, including commercial impacts.

• If applicable, include examples of feasibility studies or options appraisals and the rationale behind the chosen concepts.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare a portfolio that clearly articulates their leadership in design management for infrastructure projects. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating the practical application of engineering knowledge, collaboration with diverse teams, and the ability to deliver buildable and commercially sound solutions. Quantifiable achievements, where possible, will be highly beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Clear career progression pathways within one of the UK’s fastest-growing contractors.

• A supportive and dynamic work environment that fosters employee well-being.

• Proactive employee engagement initiatives designed to enhance job satisfaction.

• Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. While the role is primarily on-site, flexibility may be offered depending on project demands and team needs, in line with standard industry practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of similar Design Manager roles in the UK construction sector, considering the provided experience level and the company's stated growth. The benefits listed are directly from the company description, emphasizing their commitment to employee growth and satisfaction.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Engineering (specifically infrastructure, with a focus on water projects). Knights Brown is positioned as a rapidly growing contractor in the UK.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the description "one of the UK’s fastest-growing contractors" suggests a medium to large enterprise with significant project portfolios and a growing workforce.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company's emphasis on growth and established values suggests a company with a solid history and a forward-looking vision.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of the Pre-Construction or broader Engineering department.

• This role involves leading and coordinating multidisciplinary technical teams, indicating a collaborative structure where various engineering specialists report or contribute to the Design Manager's projects.

Methodology:

• Knights Brown emphasizes a community-driven culture where ambition and job satisfaction align, with core values at the heart of their operations.

• They focus on creating an environment that supports employee growth, well-being, and celebrates achievements.

• The company actively promotes inclusiveness, aiming for an environment where individuals can reach their full potential and feel respected.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Knights Brown appears to foster a culture that balances professional ambition with personal well-being and a strong sense of community. The emphasis on growth and inclusion suggests a dynamic yet supportive workplace for operations and technical professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a Mid-Senior Level position, acting as a Design Manager. It requires significant independent technical leadership and management of multidisciplinary teams, moving beyond individual contributor roles to strategic oversight.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely report to a Head of Design, Pre-Construction Director, or a Senior Engineering Manager.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager plays a critical role in the success of infrastructure projects by ensuring designs are efficient, buildable, cost-effective, and meet client objectives.

• Their work directly influences project timelines, budgets, quality, and overall client satisfaction, impacting the company's profitability and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization/Leadership: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in specific areas of water infrastructure design or to lead larger, more complex design teams.

• Senior Management: Progression to roles such as Head of Design, Principal Design Manager, or Director of Engineering, with broader strategic responsibilities.

• Project Leadership: Transition into more comprehensive project management roles, leveraging design expertise to oversee entire project lifecycles.

• Continuous Learning: Access to training, professional development, and potential sponsorship for further qualifications to stay abreast of industry advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear trajectory within the construction and engineering sector. The emphasis on growth within the company suggests that successful Design Managers can expect to take on increasing responsibility and leadership roles, contributing significantly to the company's expansion.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in the Southern (Bristol to Ringwood) area, indicating a mix of potential office-based work and site visits. Knights Brown promotes a supportive environment, suggesting a collaborative office setting.

Office Location(s): Primarily within the Southern Region of the UK, with a specific address mentioned in Ringwood, BH24 3AR, serving as a key operational hub.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The company culture emphasizes community and support, suggesting an office space conducive to teamwork and open communication.

• Tools and Technology: Access to relevant design software, project management tools, and communication platforms will be provided to facilitate effective design coordination and project delivery.

• Site Interaction: Regular site visits are expected to understand site constraints, liaise with delivery teams, and ensure design integrity from concept to construction.

Work Schedule:

• The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, there may be an expectation of flexibility to meet project deadlines and critical design milestones, common in the construction industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by a blend of office-based design coordination and essential site presence. The company's culture suggests a positive and collaborative workspace, with opportunities for interaction across various functional teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess suitability against essential and desirable criteria.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on civil engineering expertise, design management experience, and understanding of infrastructure projects. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific project examples from their portfolio.

• Situational/Behavioral Interview: Assessment of leadership style, stakeholder management skills, problem-solving approach, and cultural fit with Knights Brown's values.

• Final Interview/Panel: May involve senior management to discuss strategic fit, career aspirations, and final offer negotiation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Selection: Choose projects that best demonstrate your experience in leading multidisciplinary design for infrastructure, particularly water projects if possible.

• Role Clarity: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, leadership contributions, and decision-making influence within each project.

• Process Demonstration: Explain the design process you followed, including how you managed coordination, risk, and stakeholder engagement. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Impact and Outcomes: Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, innovative solutions implemented). Highlight how your designs contributed to buildability and client satisfaction.

• Commercial Awareness: Be prepared to discuss how your design decisions considered commercial requirements and delivery risks.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to design challenges, stakeholder conflicts, or unexpected site conditions.

• Prepare to articulate how you would approach options appraisal and concept development for a new water infrastructure project.

• Consider how you would integrate sustainability and health & safety considerations into the design process from the outset.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial. Candidates should prepare to present 2-3 key projects, detailing their personal contribution to design leadership, multidisciplinary coordination, and the successful delivery of buildable and value-driven solutions. Demonstrating commercial acumen and risk awareness will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D) for reviewing and understanding technical drawings.

• BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) platforms (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) for collaborative design and clash detection.

• Project Management Software: Experience with project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for tracking design progress and timelines.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project reports, cost analyses, and performance metrics.

• Reporting Software: Experience generating or reviewing reports on design progress, risks, and commercial status.

CRM & Automation:

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for managing and versioning design documents and specifications.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, a Design Manager in this sector would typically be expected to be proficient with core CAD and BIM software, project management tools, and collaborative communication platforms. An understanding of how these tools integrate to support efficient design delivery is essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working together across disciplines and with external partners to achieve common goals.

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in all dealings, from design to commercial interactions.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative thinking to develop value-driven and technically superior solutions.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing client needs and delivering exceptional service and outcomes.

• Safety & Sustainability: Integrating health, safety, and environmental considerations as core components of the design process.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Working within and leading integrated multidisciplinary teams, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for project success.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and proactive communication with all stakeholders, including internal teams, clients, and the supply chain.

• Constructive Feedback: A culture that values constructive feedback to continuously improve design processes and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Knights Brown's stated values of community, ambition, and core values suggest a culture that champions teamwork, innovation, and employee well-being. The Design Manager role requires embodying these values through effective leadership and collaboration.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Technical and Commercial Demands: Effectively integrating complex technical requirements with tight commercial constraints and delivery schedules.

• Managing Multidisciplinary Inputs: Ensuring seamless coordination and alignment among diverse engineering disciplines, each with its own priorities.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Navigating varied stakeholder expectations and securing buy-in for design solutions, particularly in complex projects.

• Adapting to Evolving Project Needs: Responding effectively to changes in project scope, client requirements, or site conditions throughout the design and delivery phases.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue further professional qualifications (e.g., advanced ICE/CIWEM levels, specific BIM certifications).

• Specialized Training: Access to training courses focused on advanced design techniques, risk management, contract law, or specific water engineering challenges.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential for mentorship from senior engineering leaders within Knights Brown to guide career development.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of water infrastructure projects will broaden experience and technical knowledge.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents challenges common to large-scale infrastructure projects, offering significant opportunities for professional growth. Candidates who can demonstrate adaptability and a proactive approach to problem-solving will find substantial development potential.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex multidisciplinary project you managed. What were the key challenges, how did you coordinate the different teams, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your leadership, problem-solving, and integration skills).

• "How do you ensure that designs are not only technically sound but also buildable and commercially viable?" (Prepare to discuss your understanding of constructability, cost implications, and risk management).

• "Walk me through your process for developing a concept design for a new water infrastructure project, from initial client brief to feasibility study." (Highlight your systematic approach, options appraisal, and decision-making criteria).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Knights Brown and our work in the Southern Region?" (Research their recent projects, especially in water infrastructure).

• "How do you see your values aligning with Knights Brown's core values of community, ambition, and employee well-being?" (Be prepared to give examples of how you embody these).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Overview: For each project, start with a brief summary of the project's scope, your role, and the key challenge.

• Visual Aids: Use drawings, site photos, or simple diagrams to illustrate design concepts, site conditions, and integration points.

• Highlight Key Contributions: Clearly articulate your specific actions and decisions that led to positive outcomes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) if helpful.

• Quantify Impact: Present metrics related to cost savings, schedule adherence, efficiency improvements, or risk reduction achieved through your design management.

• Focus on "Buildability": Emphasize how your designs facilitated efficient and safe construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare detailed examples for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on demonstrating leadership, technical acumen, commercial awareness, and strong interpersonal skills. A well-structured portfolio presentation is critical for showcasing practical experience and impact.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Knights Brown careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a digital portfolio showcasing 2-3 relevant civil engineering projects where you led design management. Highlight your role in multidisciplinary coordination, risk management, and delivering buildable solutions.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience in civil engineering, design management, pre-construction, and stakeholder engagement. Use keywords from the job description such as "water projects," "multidisciplinary coordination," and "technical delivery."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions and prepare to walk through your portfolio projects with a focus on impact and process. Research Knights Brown's recent projects.

• Company Research: Understand Knights Brown's values, culture, and recent achievements, particularly within the Southern Region and the water infrastructure sector. Be ready to discuss how you align with their mission.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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