Assistant Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Assistant Design Manager

Company: Galliford Try

Location: Solihull, West Midlands, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full time

Category: Construction Design Management

Date Posted: 2026-04-02

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Support and potentially lead the design process within established company management systems, ensuring adherence to project timelines and quality standards.

• Uphold and champion a safety-first culture, with a strong emphasis on compliance with CDM 2015 regulations and the principles of safety in design.

• Manage and monitor the production and quality of design deliverables, including the Master Information Delivery Plan (MIDP) and Information Requirements Schedule (IRS).

• Collaborate with internal teams and external consultants to define project scope, responsibilities, and fee structures, ensuring clear understanding and alignment.

• Contribute to the development and execution of design programmes, working closely with planning teams to integrate design timelines effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw job description indicates a focus on construction and design management, aligning this role with the broader "Construction Design Management" category. The estimated experience level of 5-10 years is based on the "Assistant" title combined with the expectation of leading aspects of the design process and managing deliverables, typical for mid-level professionals in this field. The "Hybrid" work arrangement is inferred from the mention of site travel and potential office/flexible working arrangements.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Actively participate in the creation and maintenance of a safe working environment, promoting a proactive approach to health and safety.

• Ensure a thorough understanding and implementation of CDM 2015 regulations, emphasizing the principles of prevention and safety in design throughout the project lifecycle.

• Assist in or take ownership of the design process, ensuring it aligns with the Galliford Try Building Management System and project-specific requirements.

• Support the development and agreement of the consultant's scope of responsibilities and assist in fee invitations for the project fee schedule.

• Collaborate with the Planning team to develop, manage, and monitor the design programme, ensuring seamless integration with the overall project schedule.

• Oversee and report on the progress and quality of all design deliverables, including the MIDP and IRS, identifying and mitigating any potential risks or delays.

• Ensure the design scope of works is clearly understood by all relevant parties, facilitating effective communication and coordination.

• Critically assess designs for buildability, challenging any elements that do not align with the proposed sequencing or construction methodology.

• Demonstrate commercial acumen by managing the design change process, assessing impacts, and communicating associated costs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities have been detailed to reflect the specific tasks involved in construction design management, such as managing the MIDP/IRS and focusing on buildability. The role involves both support and leadership, hence the phrasing "Assist in or take ownership."

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While specific educational qualifications are not explicitly stated, a degree in a relevant field such as Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related discipline is typically expected for this level of role.

Experience:

• Proven experience in a design management or assistant design management role within the construction industry.

• Demonstrated experience in managing and coordinating design processes from inception through to completion.

Required Skills:

• CDM 2015 Expertise: Deep understanding and practical application of the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015.

• Design Process Management: Ability to manage, monitor, and report on the progress and quality of design deliverables.

• Construction Methodology Awareness: Understanding of buildability, sequencing, and construction methodologies, with the ability to challenge designs based on these principles.

• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Advanced capabilities to analyze complex situations, identify issues, and develop effective solutions.

• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with senior stakeholders, consultants, and site teams.

• Commercial Acumen: Understanding of commercial aspects of design, including managing design changes and fee structures.

• Programme Management Support: Ability to develop and monitor design programmes in conjunction with planners.

• Health & Safety Focus: Strong awareness of Health & Safety responsibilities and adherence to company policies.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in using project management software and design collaboration platforms.

• Experience with a Principal Contractor or similar large-scale construction organization.

• Familiarity with the Galliford Try Building Management System.

• Experience in developing and managing the MIDP and IRS.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills have been extrapolated from the "About You" section of the job description, emphasizing practical application and industry-specific knowledge like CDM 2015. Preferred skills are common additions for roles of this nature in large construction firms.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Process Optimization Case Studies: Examples showcasing how you have contributed to improving design workflows, efficiency, or quality.

• CDM Compliance Documentation: Evidence of your involvement in ensuring design compliance with CDM 2015, possibly including risk assessments or safety plans.

• Design Deliverable Management Examples: Samples or descriptions of how you have managed and tracked design deliverables (e.g., drawings, specifications, reports) through their lifecycle.

• Commercial Impact Demonstrations: Case studies illustrating your ability to manage design changes, including scope assessment and impact analysis on cost and schedule.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Present examples of how you have documented and subsequently optimized design or information management workflows.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase instances where you have implemented new processes or utilized technology to streamline design coordination or information sharing.

• Measurement & Analysis: Demonstrate how you have measured the effectiveness of design processes and used data to inform improvements, particularly concerning quality, timeliness, and safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: Portfolio requirements are tailored to a design management role in construction, emphasizing practical evidence of skills in process management, compliance, and commercial handling of design elements.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Wellbeing Programme: Access to Galliford Try's 'Be Well' programme, offering discounts on products and comprehensive advice and support for physical and mental wellbeing.

• Training & Development: Investment in high-quality training, including a leadership development framework and apprenticeship programmes.

• Career Paths Initiative: Tailored training and support designed to help individuals fulfil their potential and advance their careers.

• Agile Working Programme: Flexibility in working arrangements, allowing for adjustments in when, where, and how work is performed, where appropriate for the role and team.

• Health & Safety Focus: A culture and commitment to maintaining the physical and mental wellbeing of all employees.

• Pension Scheme: (Standard for UK construction roles, though not explicitly stated, it's a common offering).

• Annual Leave: Generous holiday entitlement (typically 25 days plus bank holidays, subject to specific company policy).

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, the Agile Working Programme may offer flexibility in scheduling, subject to operational requirements and discussion with the hiring manager.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry data for Assistant Design Managers in the UK, considering the specified location and experience level. The benefits are directly drawn from the provided text, highlighting the company's commitment to employee welfare and development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction. Galliford Try operates as one of the UK's leading principal contractors, involved in both building and infrastructure projects. They have a diversified workload across public, regulated, and private sectors, serving clients in education, healthcare, defence, custodial, judicial, commercial, and urban living markets. Their reputation is built on providing whole-life solutions, high standards of project delivery, and innovation.

Company Size: Galliford Try is a large, established organization. While exact current employee numbers aren't provided in the raw text, their status as a "leading principal contractor" with an "impressive order book of over £4.1 billion" indicates a significant workforce and operational scale. This implies a structured environment with established processes and a broad range of projects.

Founded: Galliford Try has a long history, though the founding date isn't specified. The company's purpose is to "improve people's lives through building the facilities and infrastructure that communities need," which guides their operations and strategic decisions.

Team Structure:

• The operations team, specifically within design management, is likely structured to support large, complex construction projects. This would involve a hierarchy with senior design managers, project managers, and potentially design coordinators, all working collaboratively.

• Reporting structures would typically involve the Assistant Design Manager reporting to a Senior Design Manager or Project Director, with clear lines of accountability.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Insights: While not explicitly stated for this role, large construction firms like Galliford Try increasingly rely on data for project planning, risk management, and performance tracking.

• Process Optimization: The emphasis on the Building Management System and managing design deliverables suggests a commitment to structured, repeatable processes that ensure quality and efficiency.

• Automation & Efficiency: The mention of Agile Working and a forward-thinking approach hints at an openness to utilizing technology and efficient practices to improve project delivery and employee experience.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context has been fleshed out using the provided description and general knowledge of large UK construction firms. The emphasis is on how this context impacts the operations role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an "Assistant Design Manager," indicating a mid-level position. It's a crucial stepping stone for individuals looking to progress into more senior Design Management or Project Management roles within the construction industry. The role requires a solid understanding of design processes, health and safety regulations (CDM 2015), and project coordination, with the expectation of taking on increasing responsibility over time.

Reporting Structure: The Assistant Design Manager will likely report to a Senior Design Manager or a Project Manager. This reporting structure provides direct oversight, mentorship, and guidance, essential for skill development and career progression in a complex field like construction design. The position also requires significant interaction with various project teams and external stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the successful delivery of construction projects. By ensuring designs are compliant, buildable, and managed efficiently, the Assistant Design Manager contributes to:

• Project Timeliness: Minimizing delays caused by design issues or rework.

• Cost Control: Managing design changes effectively to prevent budget overruns.

• Safety Compliance: Upholding health and safety standards throughout the design phase, reducing risks on-site.

• Quality Assurance: Ensuring that design deliverables meet the required standards and client expectations.

• Reputation: Contributing to Galliford Try's reputation for high-quality project delivery.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Manager: The most direct career path, involving greater responsibility for design strategy, team leadership, and client interaction on larger or more complex projects.

• Project Management: Transitioning into a Project Management role, overseeing all aspects of a construction project, including budget, schedule, resources, and stakeholder relations.

• Specialization: Developing expertise in specific areas such as BIM (Building Information Modelling) management, sustainability in design, or particular construction sectors (e.g., healthcare, education).

• Technical Expertise: Deepening knowledge in specific engineering or architectural disciplines relevant to Galliford Try's project portfolio.

• Leadership Development: Participation in Galliford Try's leadership development programmes, preparing for future management and executive roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis focuses on the progression typical for an Assistant Design Manager in a large construction firm, highlighting the impact and specific growth avenues available within such an organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is described as Hybrid, suggesting a combination of site-based work and office-based or remote work. This reflects the nature of construction, where on-site presence is crucial for understanding project realities, coordinating with teams, and ensuring compliance.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Solihull, West Midlands. However, the role explicitly states the opportunity to "travel across multiple sites/projects in the Region." This indicates that the base office in Solihull serves as a hub, but the work environment will frequently involve visits to various construction sites within the West Midlands region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close collaboration with site teams, project managers, planners, commercial teams, and external consultants. This will involve on-site meetings, site walks, and potentially office-based workshops.

• Operations Tools & Technology: While specific tools aren't listed, expect to utilize project management software, design collaboration platforms (e.g., for viewing drawings and specifications), and potentially BIM software. Access to company-specific management systems (like the Building Management System) is also implied.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with a diverse range of professionals, from site operatives and engineers to senior management and client representatives, is a core aspect of the workspace.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time. While the Agile Working Programme offers potential flexibility, the nature of construction often requires adherence to project schedules, which may involve early starts or specific on-site hours to coordinate with ongoing work. The "Hybrid" nature means a balance between structured office/site time and potentially more flexible remote work for administrative tasks or report writing.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description is tailored to a hybrid construction role, emphasizing the blend of site and office work and the collaborative nature of the construction industry.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by the Resourcing Partner (Laura Mitchell).

• First Interview: Likely a competency-based interview with the hiring manager (or their representative) to assess your experience, skills, and understanding of CDM 2015, design management, and construction methodology. Be prepared to discuss your experience with managing design deliverables and stakeholder engagement.

• Second Interview/Assessment: This could involve a more in-depth technical discussion, a presentation on a past project or a hypothetical design management challenge, or an assessment center. Focus on demonstrating your analytical and problem-solving skills, commercial acumen, and ability to articulate complex ideas concisely.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior manager or director to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment with Galliford Try's values and objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Showcase projects where your contributions led to tangible improvements in design quality, safety, efficiency, or cost control. Quantify results where possible (e.g., "reduced design change orders by X%", "improved design delivery time by Y%").

• Demonstrate CDM 2015 Proficiency: Include examples of how you have applied CDM 2015 principles, managed design risk, or contributed to safety in design. Visual aids like process flowcharts or annotated drawings can be effective.

• Highlight Collaboration: Provide evidence of your ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders. Describe how you managed communication, resolved conflicts, and ensured alignment on design objectives.

• Showcase Commercial Awareness: Present case studies of how you managed design changes, including the process of assessment, approval, and communication of impacts on the project's commercial aspects.

• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project or by skill area. Use clear headings, concise descriptions, and high-quality visuals where appropriate. Be prepared to walk through your portfolio during the interview.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenario: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a specific design management challenge, such as resolving conflicting design information, managing a critical design delay, or implementing a new design review process on a live project.

• CDM 2015 Application: Prepare to answer questions on how you would ensure compliance with CDM 2015 in various project scenarios, including your role as Assistant Design Manager.

• Buildability and Constructability: Be prepared to discuss how you assess buildability and challenge designs that may be impractical or inefficient to construct.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process and portfolio review advice are tailored to a construction design management role, emphasizing practical demonstration of skills and knowledge relevant to the industry and specific regulations like CDM 2015.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar tools for programme development and monitoring.

• Design Collaboration Platforms: Experience with systems for sharing, reviewing, and approving design documents, such as Aconex, Viewpoint, or Procore.

• BIM Software (Beneficial): Familiarity with Building Information Modelling (BIM) software (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) for viewing, coordinating, and analyzing 3D models, increasingly standard in construction.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate reports on design progress, quality metrics, and CDM compliance using project management or dedicated reporting software.

• Data Analysis: Skills in analyzing project data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement in the design process.

• Dashboarding (Beneficial): Experience with creating or interpreting dashboards for key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design delivery.

CRM & Automation:

• Internal Systems: Familiarity with Galliford Try's internal Building Management System for process adherence.

• Workflow Automation (Limited): While not a primary focus, understanding how digital tools can automate aspects of design review or information dissemination would be advantageous.

• Integration Tools (Limited): Awareness of how different project software systems might integrate or share data.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology stack reflect common software and systems used in the UK construction industry for design management, project coordination, and health and safety compliance.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Doing the right thing is central to Galliford Try's operations, implying honesty, ethical conduct, and transparency in all dealings, especially concerning design information and safety.

• Collaboration: Working closely with clients, supply chain partners, and internal teams to achieve shared goals and deliver lasting change. This means actively seeking input, sharing knowledge, and fostering a cooperative environment.

• Passion: A dedication to the role and the company's purpose of improving people's lives through construction. This translates to a proactive approach, commitment to quality, and enthusiasm for challenging projects.

• Excellence: Delivering high standards of project delivery and performance, driven by a commitment to quality, efficiency, and innovation in all aspects of operations.

• Safety: A paramount value, emphasizing a proactive and preventative approach to health and safety in all activities, including design.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a collaborative style that requires seamless integration with planning, commercial, site operations, and procurement departments. Open communication and mutual support are key.

• Process Review & Feedback: An environment that encourages constructive feedback on processes and designs to drive continuous improvement. This involves being open to suggestions and providing thoughtful input.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that promotes sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise amongst team members and across projects to elevate overall performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values are directly aligned with Galliford Try's stated core values, contextualized for an operations role within the construction sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Project Demands: Juggling multiple design-related tasks, site visits, and stakeholder communications across various projects while maintaining high quality and adherence to deadlines.

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Ensuring consistent compliance with CDM 2015 and other health and safety legislation, which can be intricate and subject to interpretation.

• Managing Design Changes: Effectively handling revisions to designs, assessing their impact on cost and schedule, and communicating these changes clearly to all affected parties.

• Ensuring Buildability: Challenging designs that may not be practical or cost-effective to construct, requiring strong technical understanding and persuasive communication skills.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying abreast of new design software, BIM advancements, and digital collaboration tools that are transforming the construction industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in design management, construction methodologies, and project planning through hands-on experience and internal training.

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue professional certifications relevant to construction management, design, or health and safety (e.g., APM, NEBOSH).

• Mentorship & Leadership: Benefit from mentorship from senior design managers and project leaders, with potential pathways into leadership development programs for future management roles.

• Sector Specialization: Gain exposure to diverse construction sectors (healthcare, education, infrastructure), allowing for specialization based on interest and company needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the typical complexities of construction design management, while growth opportunities are linked to the company's stated commitment to employee development and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex design issue you encountered on a past project. How did you approach resolving it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, analytical skills, and process).

• "How do you ensure that designs are compliant with CDM 2015 regulations throughout the project lifecycle?" (Demonstrate regulatory knowledge and proactive safety approach).

• "Walk me through your process for managing design changes, from initial request to final implementation and communication." (Highlight commercial acumen, stakeholder management, and process adherence).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Galliford Try's values, and how do you see them applying to this role?" (Research the company's values and link them to your work ethic and approach).

• "How do you approach collaboration with different teams, such as site operations, commercial, and planning?" (Provide examples of successful cross-functional teamwork).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prioritize Impact: Start with your most significant achievements and projects that best demonstrate your core competencies in design management and CDM compliance.

• Tell a Story: For each project in your portfolio, outline the challenge, your role and actions, and the positive outcome or lesson learned. Quantify results where possible.

• Visual Aids: Use clear visuals (e.g., annotated drawings, process diagrams, photos) to illustrate your points and make your portfolio engaging.

• Be Prepared to Dive Deep: Understand the details of each project in your portfolio and be ready to answer specific questions about your involvement and decision-making processes.

• Connect to Galliford Try: Briefly explain how your experience and skills align with Galliford Try's projects and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice is designed to help candidates showcase their understanding of construction design management, regulatory compliance, and collaborative skills, with specific relevance to Galliford Try.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Oracle Cloud platform.

• Tailor Your CV: Customize your resume to highlight experience in design management, CDM 2015 compliance, construction methodology, and stakeholder engagement. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a portfolio showcasing relevant projects, focusing on your contributions to design process optimization, CDM compliance, and commercial management of design changes. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Research Galliford Try: Familiarize yourself with the company's values, recent projects, and their approach to health and safety and sustainability. Understand their role as a leading principal contractor.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your skills and experience, particularly in relation to design challenges and collaborative problem-solving.

⚠️ 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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