Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: AECOM Location: Cape Town, South Africa Job Type: Full-time Category: Design Management / Project Management (Built Environment) Date Posted: 05-Nov-2025 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design process for multidisciplinary engineering and built environment projects, ensuring technical excellence and alignment with AECOM's standards and client expectations.
• Drive project delivery by overseeing status, budget, risks, and quality procedures, contributing to the company's "Think and Act Globally" strategy through effective workshare management.
• Facilitate clear communication and collaboration among local and global design teams, clients, and project stakeholders to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Analyze project commercial health, prepare cost proposals, and generate essential project reports and KPIs to support informed decision-making and performance tracking.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities (EC) division, which is a strategic global workshare function. The Design Manager will therefore be integral in supporting both local South African projects and global initiatives, highlighting the importance of cross-border collaboration and understanding of diverse project requirements. The role requires a blend of technical design oversight and robust project/commercial management skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Undertake full responsibility for the design management of assigned projects, ensuring adherence to AECOM's Project Delivery System (PDS) and Enterprise Capabilities Global Execution Plans (GEPs).
• Analyze project status, budget adherence, and potential risks, proactively identifying and mitigating concerns to ensure project profitability and timely completion.
• Develop and deliver comprehensive project reports, including monthly status updates and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), to internal leadership and external clients.
• Prepare cost proposals for projects or programs, accurately estimating resource needs and financial requirements.
• Facilitate effective communication between clients and internal teams to clarify project scope, expectations, and design requirements.
• Ensure that assigned design teams effectively coordinate their efforts, fostering a collaborative environment for multidisciplinary input.
• Manage the approval process for any additional work or changes in scope, ensuring client buy-in and appropriate contract adjustments.
• Oversee the execution of quality reviews and ensure the assignment of appropriate Lead Verifiers to projects.
• Collaborate closely with Lead Office Project Managers and design teams to confirm the design approach and ensure it aligns with client scope of services and expectations.
• Contribute to technical discussions based on a solid background in multidisciplinary engineering projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a strong focus on both the technical aspects of design and the commercial/project management of those designs. The role requires the Design Manager to be commercially astute, capable of analyzing project financials and preparing proposals, which is a critical function within a workshare model like Enterprise Capabilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Honours degree in a built environment field of study with a minimum of four (4) years' relevant post-graduate experience.
• B-Tech degree in a built environment field of study with a minimum of five (5) years' relevant post-graduate experience.
• National Higher Diploma in a built environment field of study with a minimum of six (6) years' relevant post-graduate experience.
• National Diploma in a built environment field of study with a minimum of seven (7) years' relevant post-graduate experience.
• Tertiary qualification in a Project Management related field of study (e.g., procurement, quantity surveying, engineering, architecture, planning, contracting) with a minimum of five (5) years' relevant post-graduate experience.

Required Professional Registration/Certification:

• Registration as Candidate Professional with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP), OR
• Registration as Candidate Professional with the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA), OR
• Registration as Candidate Professional with the South African Council for Project and Construction Management Professionals (SACPCMP) (CCPM), OR
• Certification as Project Management Professional (PMP) with the Project Management Institute (PMI).

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in Design Management, encompassing planning, execution, and oversight of design processes.
• Strong Project Management acumen, including scope, schedule, budget, and risk management.
• Solid Technical Background in Multidisciplinary Engineering Projects, enabling contribution to technical discussions.
• Proficiency in analyzing project commercial health and advising on financial performance.
• Experience in preparing and presenting project reports, including KPIs and status updates.
• Excellent client relationship management and communication skills, with the ability to clarify expectations and requirements effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to coordinate and collaborate with diverse design teams and stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AECOM's PDS and EC GEPs or similar established project delivery frameworks.
• Familiarity with workshare models and managing projects across different geographic locations and time zones.
• Advanced skills in cost estimation and proposal development for engineering and construction projects.
• Knowledge of quality management systems and procedures relevant to the built environment sector.
• Experience in conflict resolution and scope change management within project environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The educational requirements are tiered based on the qualification level, with a clear correlation between the qualification and the required years of post-graduate experience. The mandatory professional registration/certification highlights the need for candidates to possess a recognized level of professional standing and project management expertise within the South African context.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful project delivery through case studies that highlight your role in managing design processes from inception to completion.
• Showcase examples of complex multidisciplinary projects where you effectively coordinated design teams and managed interdependencies.
• Provide evidence of your ability to analyze project commercial health, including examples of cost proposal preparation and financial reporting.
• Include documentation or descriptions of how you have implemented and managed quality procedures on past projects.
• Present examples of effective client communication and stakeholder management strategies employed to clarify scope and manage expectations.

Process Documentation:

• Detail your approach to defining project design phases, including scope definition, team allocation, and workflow planning.
• Illustrate your methods for tracking project progress, budget adherence, and risk mitigation, referencing specific reporting tools or techniques.
• Provide examples of how you ensure quality control throughout the design lifecycle, including review processes and adherence to standards.
• Showcase your experience in managing scope changes and ensuring proper client approval and contractual alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, particularly within a global workshare environment, a portfolio should clearly articulate the candidate's ability to manage complex, often distributed design teams, and to balance technical design oversight with commercial project management. Case studies should emphasize metrics related to on-time delivery, budget adherence, and client satisfaction, alongside the quality of the design output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the experience level (5-10 years post-graduate) and the professional certifications required (PMP, SACAP, ECSA, SACPCMP), a competitive salary range for a Design Manager in Cape Town, South Africa, is estimated to be between ZAR 650,000 to ZAR 950,000 per annum. This estimate considers the cost of living in Cape Town, industry benchmarks for similar roles in engineering and construction consulting firms, and the added value of professional registration.

Benefits:

• Medical Aid (potentially including partner/family coverage)
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Care
• Life Insurance
• Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Disability Benefits (short-term and long-term)
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and annual leave
• Various Leaves of Absence options
• Access to Voluntary Benefits programs
• Employee Perks and Discount programs
• Flexible Work Options (Hybrid model with 3 days in-office)
• Comprehensive Well-Being Resources and Programs
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support
• Business Travel Insurance
• Service Recognition Awards for dedication and tenure
• Retirement Savings Plan (e.g., Pension or Provident Fund)
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, AECOM offers a flexible hybrid work arrangement, allowing employees to balance office-based work with remote work. Specifically, hybrid employees are expected to work from an AECOM office at least three days per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary range is based on research of similar Design Manager and Project Manager roles in the South African built environment sector, factoring in the specified experience range and professional requirements. AECOM's comprehensive benefits package is directly extracted from the provided text, offering significant value beyond base salary.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Construction, and Infrastructure Consulting. AECOM is a global leader in designing, building, operating, and managing infrastructure for clients across the globe. Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm with revenue of $16.1 billion in FY2024, indicating a large, established, and globally recognized organization with over 3000 professionals in its Enterprise Capabilities division alone. Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, signifying a long history of expertise and stability in the industry.

Team Structure:

• The Enterprise Capabilities (EC) team comprises over 3000 technical professionals across nine countries, acting as a primary vehicle for workshare and specialized technical expertise.
• The Design Manager will support both local South African teams and global project teams, indicating a matrixed reporting structure and a need for strong cross-functional collaboration.
• The role involves close coordination with Lead Office Project Managers and design teams, suggesting a collaborative hierarchy focused on project execution.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes its "Think and Act Globally" strategy, driving digital adoption and leveraging workshare to accelerate delivery and maintain competitiveness.
• The Enterprise Capabilities division partners with regional and Global Business Line project teams, focusing on filling capability gaps and technical constraints.
• Emphasis is placed on AECOM's Project Delivery System (PDS) and Enterprise Capabilities Global Execution Plans (GEPs), indicating standardized processes and best practices.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities division operates as a crucial hub for global workshare, meaning this role is central to AECOM's strategy of leveraging diverse talent and technical expertise across borders. Understanding this operational model is key for candidates.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Mid-Senior Level position, suitable for professionals with 5-10 years of post-graduate experience. It signifies a move from individual contributor roles to managing design processes and teams, taking on significant project responsibility. Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior project management or divisional leadership within the Enterprise Capabilities (EC) team. They will collaborate closely with Lead Office Project Managers and lead design teams, implying a supportive yet responsible reporting dynamic. Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is direct and substantial, influencing project success through technical oversight, risk mitigation, budget control, and quality assurance. Their work directly contributes to AECOM's ability to deliver complex infrastructure projects efficiently and competitively on a global scale, underpinning the company's revenue and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Senior Design Manager/Principal: With proven success, opportunities exist to manage larger, more complex, or multiple projects, potentially leading regional or global design initiatives.
• Transition to Project Director/Program Manager: The strong project management and commercial skills developed can pave the way for roles with broader project or program oversight responsibilities.
• Specialization: Opportunities to specialize in specific sectors (e.g., transportation, water, buildings) or advanced technical areas within design management.
• Leadership Development: Access to AECOM's award-winning training and development programs designed to expand technical expertise and leadership skills, fostering career progression.
• Global Mobility: Potential to work on international projects or relocate to other AECOM offices globally, leveraging the company's worldwide presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM explicitly highlights its "Freedom to Grow" philosophy and award-winning training programs. This suggests a strong organizational commitment to employee development, making this role attractive for individuals seeking long-term career progression within a global infrastructure leader.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities office in Cape Town, South Africa. This office serves as a hub for supporting local and global projects. Office Location(s): Cape Town, South Africa (specific address noted as CARL CRONJE DRIVE, which typically refers to the Bellville area). Workspace Context:

• The environment is designed to foster collaboration between local South African teams and global design teams, requiring effective use of digital collaboration tools.
• The hybrid work arrangement (minimum 3 days in office) means the workspace supports both individual focused work and team-based collaboration sessions.
• Employees will have access to AECOM's standard technology and infrastructure to support design and project management activities.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week.
• Hybrid work arrangement: Employees are expected to work from an AECOM office for at least three days per week, offering flexibility for remote work on other days. This schedule is designed to accommodate project demands while promoting work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, requiring the candidate to be comfortable with a mix of office and remote work. The emphasis on supporting global teams from a local office highlights the need for strong remote collaboration skills and adaptability to different time zones and working cultures.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review focusing on qualifications, experience, and professional registration.
• Technical Interview: Discussion around design management principles, project management methodologies, technical background in built environment projects, and problem-solving scenarios. Candidates may be asked to discuss specific projects from their portfolio.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present selected case studies demonstrating their design management expertise, project success metrics (budget, schedule, quality), and commercial analysis capabilities.
• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of cultural fit, collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with AECOM's values and "Freedom to Grow" philosophy. This may involve questions related to handling challenges, teamwork, and leadership.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership, discussing strategic contributions, long-term vision, and fit within the Enterprise Capabilities team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 impactful projects that best showcase your design management skills, commercial acumen, and ability to deliver results.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics (e.g., budget variance, schedule adherence, cost savings, client satisfaction scores) to demonstrate the impact of your work.
• Highlight Process: Clearly articulate your role in each stage of the design process, from initiation and planning to execution and closure. Explain how you managed teams, risks, and quality.
• Showcase Commercial Acumen: Include examples of cost proposals, financial analysis, and how you managed project budgets and profitability.
• Address Global Collaboration: If applicable, highlight experience managing distributed teams or projects across different regions, demonstrating your ability to work within AECOM's EC model.
• Prepare for Q&A: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your projects, methodologies, and decision-making processes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Candidates may be given a hypothetical project scenario or a case study to analyze and present a design management approach, including risk assessment and resource planning.
• Prepare to discuss how you would handle common challenges such as scope creep, design conflicts, difficult stakeholders, or budget constraints.
• Be ready to articulate your understanding of AECOM's "Think and Act Globally" strategy and how the EC division contributes to it.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential case study preparation indicates that AECOM values practical, demonstrable experience. Candidates should prepare to not only discuss their past roles but also to visually and verbally present their achievements and methodologies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Likely proficiency with tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms for scheduling, resource allocation, and budget tracking.
• Design Software: While not directly performing design, an understanding and ability to coordinate with teams using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit), BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools, and potentially specialized engineering design software is crucial.
• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, or similar for communication, virtual meetings, and team coordination, especially critical for global and hybrid work.
• Document Management Systems: SharePoint, Aconex, or other enterprise-level systems for storing, organizing, and sharing project documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• ERP/Financial Systems: Experience with enterprise resource planning systems for financial tracking and reporting (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
• Business Intelligence Tools: Familiarity with tools like Power BI or Tableau for creating dashboards and analyzing project performance data (KPIs).
• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, financial modeling, and report generation.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While primarily a design/project management role, understanding how project data integrates with CRM systems (like Salesforce) for client management and business development can be beneficial.
• Workflow Automation: Awareness of how workflows can be automated within project management or design processes to improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for a Design Manager in a global firm like AECOM will be extensive. While direct use of design software might be limited, understanding its capabilities and how to manage design teams utilizing them is paramount. Proficiency in project management and reporting tools, especially those supporting remote collaboration and global data management, will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, innovative, and resilient design solutions.
• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all business dealings and project execution.
• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and open communication across diverse teams and geographies, embodying the "Think and Act Globally" ethos.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations by delivering value and effective solutions.
• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and methodologies to improve project delivery and outcomes.
• Sustainability: Commitment to developing solutions that are environmentally responsible and contribute to a better world.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expectation to work seamlessly with various disciplines (engineering, architecture, planning, etc.) and project management functions.
• Global Teamwork: A strong emphasis on effective communication and coordination with colleagues across different time zones and cultural backgrounds.
• Proactive Communication: Encouragement of open dialogue, feedback exchange, and early identification of potential issues to ensure project alignment.
• Shared Learning: A culture that supports knowledge sharing and continuous improvement, leveraging the collective expertise within the Enterprise Capabilities division.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's mention of its "Freedom to Grow" philosophy and the nature of the Enterprise Capabilities division suggest a culture that values professional development, autonomy within defined frameworks, and a global mindset. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to thrive in a dynamic, collaborative, and internationally-oriented environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Global Teams: Coordinating design efforts across multiple time zones, cultures, and communication styles requires strong leadership and clear protocols.
• Balancing Technical and Commercial Demands: Effectively overseeing the technical quality of design while rigorously managing project budgets and commercial viability.
• Scope and Change Management: Navigating client-driven scope changes and ensuring they are properly managed contractually and financially.
• Adhering to AECOM Standards: Integrating AECOM's specific Project Delivery System (PDS) and Global Execution Plans (GEPs) into day-to-day project management.
• Adapting to Digital Transformation: Staying abreast of and implementing new digital tools and workflows (like advanced BIM and data analytics) within the design and project management processes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Access to AECOM's Global Learning Platform: Opportunities for specialized training in project management, design management, leadership, and technical skills.
• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional certifications (PMP, etc.) and attending relevant industry conferences.
• Mentorship Programs: Participation in mentorship initiatives to gain insights from experienced leaders within AECOM.
• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide range of national and international infrastructure projects, providing invaluable experience across different sectors and complexities.
• Leadership Development Tracks: Structured programs to develop leadership capabilities for those aspiring to senior management and executive roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to large-scale, global project management. AECOM's commitment to growth and development suggests that these challenges are viewed as opportunities for learning and skill enhancement, making it an attractive environment for ambitious professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex multidisciplinary project you managed from a design perspective. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure technical excellence and commercial success?" (Focus on your process, risk management, and client communication.)
• "How do you approach managing design teams located in different geographic regions or time zones? What tools and strategies do you use to ensure effective collaboration and alignment?" (Highlight your experience with global workshare and communication tools.)
• "Walk me through your process for preparing a cost proposal for a significant engineering project. What factors do you consider, and how do you ensure accuracy and competitiveness?" (Demonstrate your commercial analysis and proposal development skills.)
• "How do you ensure quality control throughout the design lifecycle, especially when working with multiple external or internal design partners?" (Explain your understanding of quality procedures and verification processes.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you understand about AECOM's 'Think and Act Globally' strategy and the role of Enterprise Capabilities? How would your experience contribute to this?" (Show your research and understanding of AECOM's business model.)
• "Describe a time you had to balance competing priorities or stakeholder demands on a project. How did you resolve the situation?" (Assess your problem-solving and stakeholder management skills.)
• "How do you approach your professional development, and what are your career aspirations within a global organization like AECOM?" (Align your goals with AECOM's "Freedom to Grow" philosophy.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of your career and expertise. Then, present 2-3 detailed case studies. For each case study, clearly outline the project scope, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented (especially regarding design management and commercial aspects), and the quantifiable outcomes.
• Visuals: Use clear, concise slides with diagrams, charts, and key metrics. Avoid overwhelming text.
• Metrics: Emphasize project performance metrics such as budget adherence (e.g., % variance), schedule delivery (e.g., on-time completion), quality scores, and client satisfaction.
• Storytelling: Frame your experience as a narrative of problem, solution, and result, highlighting your strategic thinking and execution capabilities. Be prepared to discuss the "why" behind your decisions.
• Engagement: Make it interactive. Ask the interviewers if they have questions as you go, or reserve time for a thorough Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview preparation emphasizes demonstrating practical application of skills, understanding AECOM's strategic direction, and presenting achievements effectively. Candidates should be ready to articulate their value proposition in terms of technical leadership, project delivery, and commercial awareness within a global context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the SmartRecruiters platform.
• Tailor your CV: Ensure your resume highlights your experience in design management, multidisciplinary project coordination, commercial analysis, and client relations. Quantify achievements with specific metrics and list your relevant professional registrations prominently.
• Prepare your portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in design management, project delivery, and commercial oversight. Ensure these projects showcase your ability to manage complexity and achieve measurable results.
• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's global infrastructure projects, its "Think and Act Globally" strategy, and the role of its Enterprise Capabilities division. Understand their commitment to sustainability and innovation.
• Practice your presentation: Rehearse your portfolio walkthrough, focusing on clear communication, concise delivery, and the ability to address potential questions regarding your project experiences and methodologies.

⚠️ 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.