Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: AECOM Location: Milan, Italy Job Type: Full-time Category: Design Management / Engineering Operations Date Posted: 2026-01-30 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the strategic management of design processes within large-scale real estate and civil engineering projects, ensuring alignment with contractual obligations and project objectives.
• Key responsibilities include overseeing public procurement procedures for engineering and architectural services, requiring a strong understanding of regulatory compliance and tender documentation.
• The position demands coordination of multidisciplinary teams, ensuring seamless integration of design outputs, schedules, and quality standards throughout project lifecycles.
• This role is critical for managing stakeholder relationships and ensuring effective digital document management and risk mitigation strategies are implemented.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the core responsibilities lean heavily into operations management for design and procurement processes within the engineering and consulting sector. This suggests a role that bridges design oversight with operational execution, particularly in managing bids, contracts, and stakeholder interactions, aligning it with aspects of project operations and GTM (Go-To-Market) for services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage public procurement processes for engineering and architectural services, ensuring strict adherence to Italian and relevant international regulations.
• Develop, prepare, and coordinate comprehensive technical and administrative tender documentation, contributing significantly to both technical and financial bid submissions.
• Execute design management activities by coordinating multidisciplinary engineering and architectural teams, ensuring all design outputs meet contractual requirements, scope, schedule, and quality benchmarks.
• Proactively monitor design deliverables, identify and manage interfaces between different disciplines, and oversee approval processes during both tender and contract execution phases.
• Cultivate and manage robust relationships with contracting authorities, Project Managers (RUP - Responsabile Unico del Procedimento), and other key project stakeholders.
• Provide essential support for post-award contract management, including initiating services, managing design changes, and processing contractual amendments.
• Implement and maintain rigorous digital document management systems, ensuring traceability, security, and effective risk mitigation throughout all procurement and execution workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize operational execution within a design context. The mention of "public procurement procedures," "tender documentation," "contractual requirements," and "stakeholder management" points to a strong operational and project management component, crucial for candidates with experience in managing complex service delivery lifecycles, especially within the public sector or large-scale infrastructure projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Master's degree in Engineering or Architecture. Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in an engineering and consulting firm, with a proven track record in design management and procurement.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated proficiency in managing public procurement procedures and preparing complex tender documentation.
• Strong experience in coordinating multidisciplinary engineering and architectural teams to deliver projects on time and within scope.
• Expertise in managing design deliverables, interfaces, and approval processes in a project environment.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with experience in liaising with contracting authorities and project managers.
• Proficiency in digital document management and risk mitigation strategies.
• Fluent in both Italian and English, enabling effective communication across diverse teams and client bases.
• Competence in using BIM/2D Civil/Architectural software such as Revit, AutoCAD, and Civil 3D.
• Solid understanding and practical application of Microsoft Office Suite, with a particular emphasis on Excel and Project for planning and reporting.

Preferred Skills:

• Specific background in Civil Engineering or Building Engineering.
• Experience with contract management and post-award service delivery.
• Familiarity with AECOM's specific internal project management methodologies and tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualification requirements highlight a blend of technical design knowledge (BIM, AutoCAD) and strong operational project management skills (procurement, stakeholder management, contract administration). The preference for Civil/Building Engineering suggests a focus on infrastructure and construction projects, where operational efficiency and compliance are paramount.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of successfully managed public procurement processes for engineering or architectural services, detailing methodologies and regulatory adherence.
• Present case studies demonstrating effective coordination of multidisciplinary design teams, highlighting improvements in efficiency, quality, or adherence to project constraints.
• Include documentation or examples of technical and administrative tender documentation prepared, illustrating clarity, completeness, and compliance.
• Provide evidence of managing design deliverables, tracking progress, and overseeing approval workflows, preferably with visual aids or process maps.

Process Documentation:

• Document a typical workflow for managing design changes or contractual amendments within a project, illustrating problem-solving and communication strategies.
• Illustrate a process for digital document management and version control, emphasizing traceability and risk mitigation.
• Demonstrate experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship management, perhaps through a specific project example or a defined communication protocol.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role with significant operational responsibilities, a portfolio should clearly articulate how candidates manage processes, mitigate risks, and drive efficiency. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating structured approaches to procurement, team coordination, and stakeholder communication, rather than solely on design output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in engineering consulting in Milan, Italy, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between €55,000 - €75,000 annually. This range is influenced by the specific project scope, complexity, and the candidate's proven experience in public procurement and multidisciplinary team leadership.

Benefits:

• Attractive Compensation Package: Competitive salary, reflecting experience and responsibilities.
• Hybrid Work Model: Offers flexibility to balance office-based and remote work.
• Meal Vouchers: Contribution towards daily meal expenses.
• Welfare Program: Comprehensive benefits package supporting employee well-being.
• Health and Wellness: Resources for personal well-being, mental health support, and gym memberships.
• Health Insurance: Private health insurance coverage.
• Technology and Tools: Company-provided laptop and smartphone.
• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Business Travel Insurance: Coverage for work-related travel.
• Service Recognition Awards: Acknowledgment of long-term commitment and contributions.
• Pension Savings Plan: Support for long-term financial planning.
• Public Transport Allowances: Assistance with commuting costs.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through the hybrid work model.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on current market data for similar roles in Milan, considering the specified experience level and the emphasis on public procurement and engineering/architecture management. AECOM's provided benefits are comprehensive, highlighting a strong commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance, which are key attractors for experienced operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting, Engineering, and Design Services. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of services from planning and design to construction management for various sectors including transportation, buildings, water, energy, and environment. This industry context means dealing with complex projects, regulatory environments, and diverse stakeholders. Company Size: AECOM is a large, global organization with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This scale offers stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for international collaboration, while also implying established processes and potentially a structured corporate environment. Founded: AECOM has a long history, tracing its roots back to 1910. This extensive legacy suggests a deep well of expertise, a stable market presence, and a culture built on long-term project delivery and client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will be part of the Building & Places Team, a specialized unit within AECOM. This team likely comprises architects, engineers, urban planners, and project managers focused on real estate and civil engineering projects.
• Reporting structure will likely involve reporting to a senior Design Director or Operations Lead within the Building & Places division, with direct oversight of project-specific design teams.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring interaction with various AECOM business lines (e.g., Transportation, Water, Energy) to leverage expertise and resources for integrated project delivery.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to project management, utilizing advanced analytics for performance tracking, risk assessment, and decision-making.
• Workflow planning and optimization are central, with a focus on efficiency, quality, and adherence to international standards and best practices in design and construction.
• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated, especially in areas like document management, scheduling, and communication, to streamline complex project lifecycles.

Company Website: https://www.aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and legacy in infrastructure consulting indicate a professional, process-oriented environment. The Building & Places team structure suggests a collaborative, yet specialized, working group. Understanding AECOM's commitment to "delivering a better world" and their focus on complex challenges is crucial for aligning with their operational ethos.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level management position, requiring significant experience in managing complex projects and teams. It's a key operational role within the design and engineering lifecycle, bridging technical design requirements with contractual and administrative execution. Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Building & Places division, such as a Director of Operations or a Senior Design Director. They will, in turn, manage and guide project-specific design teams and potentially coordinate with external consultants and contractors. Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role has a direct impact on AECOM's ability to win and successfully deliver large-scale infrastructure and real estate projects. Effective management of procurement, design coordination, and stakeholder relations directly influences project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation for delivering on complex challenges.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in specific types of infrastructure (e.g., transportation hubs, large-scale residential developments) or procurement methodologies.
• Leadership Progression: Advancement to Senior Design Manager, Director of Design, or Operations Director roles, with broader responsibilities for multiple projects or business units.
• Skill Development: Opportunities to enhance skills in areas like contract law, advanced BIM implementation, risk management, and international project delivery through AECOM's extensive training and development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for experienced professionals to grow within a structured, global organization. The emphasis on managing complex processes and client relationships provides a strong foundation for advancing into senior operational or leadership positions within the infrastructure consulting sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM offers a hybrid work model, suggesting a blend of office-based collaboration and remote work flexibility. The Milan office is centrally located, implying a professional and accessible workspace. Office Location(s): The primary office is located in Milan, Italy, specifically at Via Gustavo Fara. This central location provides good access to public transportation and city amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model fosters a collaborative environment when in the office, encouraging interaction with colleagues from the Building & Places team and potentially other AECOM business groups.
• Access to AECOM's robust technology infrastructure, including BIM software, project management tools, and communication platforms, is expected to support efficient operations.
• Opportunities for direct interaction with diverse project teams, senior management, and clients are integral to the role, promoting knowledge sharing and professional development.

Work Schedule: Standard working hours are anticipated to be around 40 hours per week, with the hybrid arrangement offering flexibility in terms of daily structure and location. This flexibility is crucial for managing project demands while maintaining work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment at AECOM's Milan office is designed to support efficient operations and employee well-being. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic workspace that encourages collaboration on-site while leveraging the benefits of remote work for focused tasks and personal flexibility.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter, focusing on experience in design management, public procurement, and engineering/architecture.
• Technical Interview: Discussion of your experience with BIM software, project management tools, and your approach to managing multidisciplinary teams and technical documentation. Expect questions related to your understanding of Italian procurement regulations.
• Case Study Presentation: You may be asked to present a portfolio piece showcasing a complex project you managed, focusing on your role in procurement, design coordination, stakeholder management, and problem-solving.
• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of your motivation, initiative, organizational skills, and ability to work effectively in a busy, collaborative environment. Questions will likely explore your experience with travel and flexibility.
• Final Interview: With senior management to discuss your suitability for the role and career aspirations within AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state your role, the scope of work, your specific contributions, and measurable outcomes (e.g., "Managed procurement for a €X million project, delivering bids X weeks ahead of schedule").
• Highlight Process Management: Showcase your structured approach to public procurement, tender preparation, and design team coordination. Use flowcharts or diagrams if helpful.
• Demonstrate Technical Proficiency: Include examples of technical documentation you've prepared or managed, and illustrate your experience with BIM software and Microsoft Project.
• Emphasize Stakeholder Communication: Provide examples of how you managed relationships with contracting authorities, RUPs, and other stakeholders, detailing your communication strategies.
• Showcase Adaptability: Include instances where you demonstrated flexibility, willingness to travel, and effective record-keeping for site-based activities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing design conflicts, tight deadlines, or challenging stakeholder negotiations.
• Research recent Italian public procurement laws and their implications for engineering and architectural services.
• Understand AECOM's project portfolio and their approach to sustainability and innovation in infrastructure development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both technical competence and operational execution capabilities. A strong portfolio that clearly demonstrates process management, problem-solving skills, and quantifiable achievements in design procurement and team coordination will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• BIM/CAD Software: Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D – Proficiency required for understanding and managing design deliverables.
• Project Management Software: Microsoft Project – Essential for planning, scheduling, and tracking project timelines and resources.
• Office Productivity Suite: Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) – Crucial for documentation, reporting, communication, and data analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While specific tools aren't listed, expect to use Excel extensively for data analysis and reporting on project progress, budgets, and procurement metrics.
• Potential use of AECOM's internal project management and reporting dashboards for tracking key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

• Not explicitly mentioned, but experience with any CRM or workflow automation tools used in project management or client relationship management would be beneficial.
• Focus will be on digital document management systems for traceability and risk mitigation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD) and project management tools (Microsoft Project) is non-negotiable. The emphasis on Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Project, highlights the operational and analytical demands of the role. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they leverage these tools for process optimization and reporting.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• "Delivering a Better World": A core AECOM value that translates into a commitment to quality, sustainability, and positive impact in all projects. Operations professionals are expected to contribute to this mission through efficient and responsible project execution.
• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in all dealings, especially crucial in public procurement and client relations.
• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas and approaches to solve complex infrastructure challenges, which can be applied to optimizing design and procurement processes.
• Respect: Fostering an inclusive and collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, essential for managing multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellence: A drive for high performance and continuous improvement in all aspects of work, including operational efficiency and client service.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM promotes a collaborative approach, requiring strong teamwork and cross-functional integration across different business lines and disciplines.
• Emphasis on open communication and knowledge sharing to leverage the collective expertise of a global organization.
• A structured yet adaptable style, where processes are followed diligently, but flexibility is maintained to address project-specific needs and challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should align with AECOM's global purpose and values, demonstrating a commitment to excellence, integrity, and collaboration. The operations culture likely values process adherence, data-driven decision-making, and a proactive approach to problem-solving within a complex project environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Public Procurement Regulations: Staying abreast of and complying with complex Italian and EU public procurement laws can be challenging.
• Managing Multidisciplinary Teams: Ensuring effective communication, coordination, and alignment among diverse engineering and architectural disciplines requires strong leadership and conflict resolution skills.
• Balancing Scope, Schedule, and Quality: Juggling competing project demands to deliver high-quality designs within contractual timelines and budgets.
• Stakeholder Management: Effectively managing expectations and relationships with various stakeholders, including public authorities, clients, and internal teams.
• Digital Transformation: Adapting to and implementing new digital tools and processes for design and document management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to AECOM's extensive internal training programs covering project management, procurement law, BIM advancements, and leadership development.
• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend relevant industry events and pursue professional certifications to enhance expertise.
• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from mentorship by senior leaders within AECOM, gaining insights into career progression and strategic decision-making.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Work on diverse projects that offer exposure to various infrastructure sectors and operational challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges that are characteristic of large-scale infrastructure projects, offering substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development in areas critical to operations management in the engineering sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex public procurement process you managed from tender preparation to contract award. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on process, compliance, and problem-solving).
• "How do you ensure alignment between design outputs, contractual requirements, and project schedules when coordinating multidisciplinary teams?" (Focus on coordination, communication, and process adherence).
• "Walk me through your experience using BIM software like Revit and project management tools like Microsoft Project. How have you used them to improve efficiency or mitigate risks in past projects?" (Focus on technical skills and operational application).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AECOM's mission to 'deliver a better world,' and how do you see your role contributing to this?" (Focus on alignment with company values).
• "AECOM operates in a hybrid work environment. How do you ensure effective collaboration and productivity in such a setup?" (Focus on adaptability and communication skills).
• "Describe a time you had to manage difficult stakeholders. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on stakeholder management and communication).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Organize your portfolio by project type or by core responsibility (e.g., Procurement Management, Design Coordination, Stakeholder Engagement).
• For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the challenges faced, the processes you implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved.
• Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your projects (e.g., BIM implementation) and the operational strategies you employed.
• Use visuals (diagrams, charts, screenshots) to illustrate processes, workflows, and outcomes where appropriate.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of operational processes, regulatory environments, and stakeholder management, in addition to technical design knowledge. Highlighting quantifiable achievements in your portfolio and being ready to discuss hypothetical operational challenges will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor your CV and cover letter: Emphasize your experience in public procurement, design management, and coordinating multidisciplinary teams, using keywords from the job description. Highlight your fluency in Italian and English, and your proficiency with BIM/CAD and Microsoft Project.
• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in managing design processes, public tenders, and stakeholder relations. Be ready to discuss your specific contributions and the operational methodologies you applied.
• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's projects, values, and their approach to infrastructure consulting, particularly within the Building & Places division. Understand their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
• Practice interview responses: Prepare for questions related to your technical skills, operational experience, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit, focusing on providing specific examples and quantifiable results.

⚠️ 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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