Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: AtkinsRéalis Location: London, United Kingdom Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Design Management / Project Delivery Operations Date Posted: 2025-08-07 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the end-to-end delivery of multi-disciplinary infrastructure projects from concept through to construction, ensuring adherence to critical program, budget, and quality objectives.
• Lead and develop project teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment to achieve project success and maintain client satisfaction.
• Manage project lifecycle risks, including contractual and commercial exposure, by identifying, escalating, and implementing mitigation strategies proactively.
• Serve as the primary liaison for clients and stakeholders, ensuring clear communication, effective coordination, and alignment on project objectives and delivery strategies.
• Drive operational excellence by owning and managing the project delivery program and associated execution plans, integrating best practices in safety and quality assurance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is situated within AtkinsRéalis's Infrastructure Project Delivery Practice (PDP), a center of excellence focused on managing and delivering complex infrastructure projects. The Design Manager position is pivotal in ensuring the successful execution of design services across key markets like Water Infrastructure, Defence Infrastructure, Nuclear, Aviation, Energy, Rail, and Urban Developments, with a specific focus on the Defence market in this instance. This implies a need for robust project governance, risk management, and stakeholder engagement skills within a structured operational framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Ensure the successful delivery of multi-disciplinary design projects, meeting defined targets for program timelines, budget adherence, and quality standards, thereby optimizing operational efficiency.
• Collaborate with the Design Director to define and agree upon project objectives, subsequently developing and executing a comprehensive strategy for their achievement through effective resource allocation and process management.
• Proactively identify, escalate, and manage any potential contractual or commercial risks to AtkinsRéalis to the Project Director at the earliest opportunity, implementing risk mitigation processes.
• Lead, motivate, coach, and develop the project team, providing regular feedback and performance management to foster a high-performing operational unit.
• Prioritize and integrate safety management throughout all phases of project delivery, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies for a secure operational environment.
• Facilitate seamless communication, coordination, and information flow between the Client, internal project teams, subcontractors, and partners, ensuring alignment on project status and operational plans.
• Assemble, own, and maintain the project delivery program and detailed execution plans, incorporating critical path analysis and resource leveling techniques.
• Manage the project close-out process upon completion, including updating market intelligence, capturing and disseminating lessons learned internally, and initiating client satisfaction surveys to inform future operational improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong project management acumen, including scope definition, risk management, and contract administration (specifically NEC3/NEC4). The emphasis on leading teams, client communication, and program/budget adherence points to a role requiring significant operational oversight and strategic planning within the context of large infrastructure projects. The requirement to manage design commissions implies a deep understanding of the design lifecycle and its integration into broader project delivery operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Chartered Engineer/Architect or equivalent professional qualification, demonstrating a high level of technical expertise and industry recognition in engineering or architectural design management.

Experience:

• Proven track record of successfully managing design commissions on large-scale infrastructure projects, with a focus on delivering complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
• Experience across a diverse range of construction projects, showcasing adaptability and breadth of knowledge in project execution and operational delivery.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing and coordinating the design process for infrastructure projects from inception to completion.
• Project Management: Strong capabilities in planning, executing, and closing projects, managing scope, schedule, budget, and resources effectively.
• Leadership & Team Motivation: Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and develop project teams, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for effective client and stakeholder engagement, reporting, and team coordination.
• Risk Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, escalating, and developing mitigation strategies for contractual, commercial, and operational risks.
• Client Relationship Management: Proven skills in building and maintaining strong, positive relationships with clients and key stakeholders.
• Construction Contract Knowledge: In-depth understanding and experience in deploying various forms of construction contracts, with a specific emphasis on NEC3/NEC4 frameworks.
• Project Documentation: Experience in preparing essential project documents such as Scope Definition papers, Project Execution Plans, Risk Registers, Change Control Logs, and Client & Stakeholder Management plans.
• Time, Cost, and Quality Management: Familiarity with managing projects against defined objectives and experience with programming techniques and earned value management.
• BIM & 3D Modelling: Understanding of Building Information Modeling (BIM) principles and experience with 3D modeling tools for design coordination and attribute management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the Defence market sector, understanding its unique project delivery requirements and compliance standards.
• Familiarity with advanced programming tools and techniques for complex project scheduling and resource optimization.
• Knowledge of sustainability practices and integration into infrastructure design and delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical design understanding and robust project management operations. The requirement for Chartered status indicates a need for experienced professionals who can operate autonomously and with a high degree of accountability. Proficiency in NEC contracts and BIM are critical operational competencies for managing complex projects in the UK infrastructure sector.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful project delivery, showcasing the ability to manage design commissions from concept through to construction, highlighting scope, timeline, and budget management.
• Evidence of leading and developing project teams, including examples of team motivation, performance feedback, and conflict resolution within an operational context.
• Portfolio pieces that clearly articulate the management of contractual and commercial risks, including a structured approach to identification, escalation, and mitigation strategies.
• Examples of effective client and stakeholder engagement, illustrating strong communication, coordination, and relationship management skills throughout project lifecycles.
• Showcase experience with various forms of construction contracts, particularly NEC3/NEC4, with specific examples of their application in project delivery documentation.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of Project Execution Plans (PEPs) and Scope Definition papers, demonstrating a structured approach to project planning and operational setup.
• Include samples of Risk Registers, Change Control Logs, and Client & Stakeholder Management plans to illustrate proficiency in project governance and operational control.
• Showcase experience with programming and earned value techniques, ideally with visual representations or case studies demonstrating their application in tracking project progress and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio demonstrating practical application of project management methodologies and operational leadership is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to present tangible evidence of their ability to manage complex projects, lead teams, and navigate contractual and risk landscapes within the infrastructure sector. The focus on NEC contracts and BIM integration suggests that examples showcasing these specific operational tools and frameworks will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience in London, UK, managing large infrastructure projects, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between £60,000 - £85,000 per annum. This estimate considers the seniority of the role, the complexity of the projects managed, and the high cost of living and operational demands in London. The final offer will be determined by the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and interview performance.

Benefits:

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, professional development, and career advancement within a global engineering and construction firm.
• Pension Scheme: Comprehensive pension plan to support long-term financial security.
• Health & Wellbeing: Access to health and wellbeing programs, potentially including private medical insurance and mental health support.
• Flexible Working: While this role is primarily on-site, AtkinsRéalis may offer flexible working arrangements where operationally feasible.
• Employee Networks: Membership in active employee networks that promote diversity, inclusion, and allyship.
• Annual Leave: Generous annual leave allowance, plus public holidays.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. The role requires on-site presence, with potential for flexibility depending on project needs and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on typical compensation for similar roles in the UK infrastructure sector, factoring in London weighting and the specialized skills required. AtkinsRéalis is known for offering a comprehensive benefits package that supports employee growth and wellbeing, which is standard for major engineering consultancies. The "LI-INFRASTRUCTURE | #LI-UK | ​#PDPractice | #PDPJOBS" hashtags suggest a focus on infrastructure and the Project Delivery Practice, reinforcing the operational context.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• Engineering, Construction, and Project Management, with a strong focus on infrastructure development across various sectors including defence, water, energy, and transportation. AtkinsRéalis operates within a dynamic global market where innovation in project delivery and sustainability are key drivers.

Company Size:

• AtkinsRéalis is a large, global organization, employing tens of thousands of people worldwide. This scale provides significant opportunities for professional networking, diverse project exposure, and career mobility within different business units and geographies. For an operations professional, this means access to extensive resources, established processes, and potential for collaboration with a wide array of specialists.

Founded:

• AtkinsRéalis has a rich history dating back to the founding of WS Atkins PLC in 1938. This long-standing presence signifies stability, a deep understanding of engineering principles, and a proven ability to adapt to evolving industry demands and technological advancements. This legacy underpins a culture of engineering excellence and long-term project commitment.

Team Structure:

• The Infrastructure Project Delivery Practice (PDP) is a dedicated center of excellence. The Design Manager will likely be part of a project-specific team, reporting to a Project Director or similar senior management role. This team will be multi-disciplinary, comprising engineers, designers, project planners, and other specialists.
• The reporting structure is hierarchical, with clear lines of responsibility from project team members up to senior leadership. Collaboration is expected across disciplines and with client representatives, external partners, and subcontractors.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring the Design Manager to work closely with commercial teams, safety officers, procurement, and other support functions to ensure holistic project success and efficient operational execution.

Methodology:

• AtkinsRéalis emphasizes a data-driven approach to project delivery, leveraging analytics for performance monitoring, risk assessment, and decision-making.
• Workflow planning and optimization are central to the PDP practice, focusing on delivering projects efficiently and to high standards of quality and safety.
• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged, particularly through the adoption of digital tools like BIM and advanced project management software to streamline processes and enhance collaboration.

Company Website:

• https://www.atkinsrealis.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's global presence and long history suggest a well-established operational framework and a culture that values expertise and reliability. The PDP practice signifies a specialized group focused on optimizing project delivery, meaning this role is embedded within a high-performance operational environment. The emphasis on data, efficiency, and digital tools like BIM indicates a forward-thinking approach to project management operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This Design Manager role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and project delivery domain. It requires significant experience in managing complex design processes and project lifecycles, demonstrating leadership capabilities and a deep understanding of project management methodologies, contractual frameworks (like NEC), and digital design tools (BIM). The role involves substantial responsibility for project outcomes, team leadership, and client relations, placing it at a key junction for career progression in operations management.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager typically reports to a Project Director or a Senior Design Manager within the Infrastructure Project Delivery Practice (PDP). They will lead a team of designers and project engineers, and will be responsible for coordinating with various internal departments (e.g., commercial, health & safety, quality assurance) and external stakeholders, including clients, subcontractors, and consultants. This structure demands strong communication and delegation skills to effectively manage diverse operational relationships.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on the operational success of infrastructure projects. By ensuring timely, budget-compliant, and high-quality design delivery, they directly influence project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation. Their leadership in managing risks and optimizing workflows contributes to the overall efficiency and effectiveness of AtkinsRéalis's project delivery operations, ultimately supporting the company's strategic goals and revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Leadership Progression: Advancement to Project Director, Program Manager, or Head of Design Management roles, overseeing larger and more complex portfolios of projects.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific market sectors (e.g., Defence, Nuclear) or operational areas like BIM management, contract management, or health & safety leadership.
• International Mobility: Opportunities to work on global projects and gain international experience within AtkinsRéalis's extensive network.
• Technical Skill Development: Access to training and certifications in advanced project management software, BIM technologies, and contract negotiation.
• Mentorship Programs: Participation in formal mentorship programs to gain guidance from senior leaders and develop leadership competencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical stepping stone for operations professionals aiming for senior project leadership positions. The experience gained in managing complex projects, leading diverse teams, and navigating the intricacies of the UK infrastructure market, particularly within the Defence sector, provides a strong foundation for advanced career growth. The company's emphasis on development and global reach offers substantial long-term career potential within operations management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• The primary location is London, United Kingdom, likely within a modern office environment characteristic of major engineering consultancies. This setting typically offers collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms equipped with presentation technology, and access to necessary IT infrastructure. The "Nova North" location suggests a contemporary business hub.

Office Location(s):

• The role is based from the Epsom office, with London, United Kingdom identified as the primary work location. This implies that while the team might have a base in Epsom, the projects and client interactions will predominantly be in and around London. Accessibility via public transport is usually a key consideration for London-based roles.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will facilitate collaboration with project teams, clients, and stakeholders, necessitating both focused individual work and active participation in team meetings and design reviews.
• Access to essential operations tools and technology will be provided, including project management software, BIM platforms, communication tools, and potentially high-performance computing for design-related tasks.
• Opportunities for regular interaction with the operations team, design professionals, and project management staff are inherent to the role, fostering a dynamic and communicative work environment.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time, typically 40 hours per week. While on-site presence is expected, the company culture may support some degree of flexibility in working hours, provided project deliverables and team coordination are not compromised. This flexibility is key for managing diverse project demands and ensuring continuous operational oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in London signifies a traditional project delivery environment where face-to-face collaboration and direct client engagement are paramount. The office setting is expected to be professional and equipped with the necessary tools to support efficient project operations and team synergy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess suitability against the core requirements, focusing on project management experience, design leadership, and relevant qualifications.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into your experience, leadership style, understanding of project delivery operations, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your portfolio.
• Technical/Team Interview: This stage may involve a presentation of a past project or a case study, focusing on how you managed design delivery, led teams, handled challenges, and applied project management methodologies. You might meet with potential colleagues or a Design Director.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader within the Infrastructure PDP, focusing on strategic alignment, long-term career aspirations, and final assessment of your suitability for the role and the company's operational ethos.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to clearly showcase your most relevant projects. Use a consistent format for each project, including project overview, your specific role, key challenges, operational strategies employed, results achieved (quantified where possible), and lessons learned.
• Highlight Operations Excellence: Focus on demonstrating your ability to manage projects to time, cost, and quality objectives. Include examples of your work with NEC contracts, BIM integration, risk registers, and stakeholder management plans.
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For instance, "delivered project X 10% under budget," or "improved design coordination efficiency by 15%."
• Showcase Leadership: Include examples of how you have led, motivated, and developed teams. Describe your approach to problem-solving and conflict resolution within a project context.
• Tailor to AtkinsRéalis: Research AtkinsRéalis's projects and values. If possible, tailor your portfolio to highlight experiences that align with their work in the Defence sector or their commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Presentation: Prepare a concise and compelling presentation of a significant infrastructure design project you managed. Focus on the operational aspects: planning, execution, team management, risk mitigation, and client satisfaction. Use visuals like timelines, organizational charts, and key performance indicators.
• Behavioral Questions: Anticipate questions about your leadership approach, how you handle difficult team members, manage client expectations, resolve conflicts, and prioritize tasks under pressure. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for your answers.
• Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss your understanding of BIM, NEC contracts, risk management frameworks, and project programming techniques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be thorough, assessing not only technical and managerial skills but also cultural fit and leadership potential. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly demonstrates operational competence in managing complex infrastructure projects is paramount. Candidates should be ready to articulate their processes, decision-making, and the impact of their work with concrete examples.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management software (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6) for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.
• BIM Software: Familiarity with BIM platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit, Navisworks) for design coordination, clash detection, and information management. Understanding of BIM execution plans and 3D modeling principles is essential.
• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication, document sharing, and workflow management.
• Contract Management Systems: Knowledge of systems or processes for managing contracts, particularly NEC3/NEC4, including change control and submission tracking.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Earned Value Management (EVM) Tools: Understanding of EVM principles and potentially software for performance measurement and forecasting.
• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data and generate reports using standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Excel for advanced analysis, pivot tables, charts).
• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating or utilizing project dashboards for real-time performance monitoring and stakeholder reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding CRM principles for client management and stakeholder tracking can be beneficial.
• Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can be applied to project workflows, such as automated reporting or task management, to enhance efficiency.
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with robust document control systems for managing project documentation throughout its lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools crucial for efficient project delivery operations in the infrastructure sector. A strong command of project planning and scheduling software, BIM platforms, and collaborative tools is expected, reflecting the technical demands of modern infrastructure project management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards, ensuring all operational activities are conducted with the utmost care for people and the planet.
• Excellence in Delivery: A dedication to high-quality project outcomes, meeting and exceeding client expectations through meticulous planning, execution, and continuous improvement of operational processes.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering an environment where open communication, mutual respect, and collective problem-solving are encouraged across all levels and disciplines.
• Innovation and Efficiency: Embracing new technologies, methodologies, and creative solutions to drive efficiency, optimize workflows, and deliver value.
• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all business dealings and maintaining professional conduct in interactions with colleagues, clients, and partners.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with various departments (commercial, HSE, quality, finance) to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to project delivery operations.
• Process Review Culture: Encouraging regular reviews of project processes and performance, facilitating feedback exchange to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of expertise, lessons learned, and best practices across project teams and within the broader PDP practice to drive collective learning and operational excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is designed to support high-performance project delivery. Operations professionals are expected to be proactive, collaborative, and committed to continuous improvement, with a strong emphasis on safety and ethical conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of clients, internal teams, subcontractors, and regulatory bodies on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Navigating Contractual Nuances: Ensuring strict adherence to complex contract terms (like NEC3/NEC4) and effectively managing associated risks and opportunities.
• Integrating Diverse Project Teams: Leading and coordinating multi-disciplinary teams, often with varying working styles and technical backgrounds, towards unified project goals.
• Adapting to Evolving Project Demands: Responding effectively to changes in project scope, site conditions, or regulatory requirements while maintaining project timelines and budgets.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional certifications such as PMP, PRINCE2, or APM qualifications.
• Specialized BIM and Digital Tool Training: Access to training programs for advanced BIM software, data analytics platforms, and project management technologies.
• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to participate in leadership training, mentorship, and executive coaching to enhance strategic thinking and team management skills.
• Industry Conferences and Seminars: Encouragement and support to attend relevant industry events to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in infrastructure project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex project challenges and developing in-demand skills within a leading engineering firm. The challenges presented are typical of senior operations roles in major infrastructure projects, providing a rich learning environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing a project execution plan for a complex infrastructure project. What are the key components you prioritize?" (Focus on demonstrating a structured, data-driven approach to operational planning.)
• "How do you foster collaboration and ensure effective communication within a multi-disciplinary project team, especially when dealing with conflicting priorities or challenges?" (Highlight your leadership and interpersonal skills, emphasizing clear communication channels and conflict resolution strategies.)
• "Walk me through a situation where you had to manage significant contractual or commercial risk on a project. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare to discuss your risk management process, referencing specific examples and demonstrating your understanding of NEC contracts.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AtkinsRéalis and our work in the Infrastructure PDP? How do you see your skills aligning with our operational goals in the Defence sector?" (Research recent projects, company values, and the PDP's mission.)
• "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive and productive team culture?" (Relate your answer to AtkinsRéalis's stated values of collaboration, safety, and excellence.)
• "How do you measure the success of your project delivery operations beyond just meeting budget and schedule?" (Discuss your focus on quality, client satisfaction, team development, and risk mitigation.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Flow: Structure your presentation with a clear beginning (project context, objectives), middle (your role, challenges, operational strategies, key decisions), and end (outcomes, lessons learned, impact).
• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise slides with relevant visuals (diagrams, timelines, charts) to support your narrative. Avoid text-heavy slides.
• Quantify Impact: Emphasize the measurable results of your efforts, such as cost savings, schedule improvements, or quality enhancements.
• Demonstrate Process: Clearly articulate the operational processes you followed, particularly concerning design coordination, risk management, and stakeholder engagement.
• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about specific project details, your decision-making process, and how you handled challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a deep understanding of project delivery operations, leadership capabilities, and a proactive approach to risk and stakeholder management. A strong, well-articulated portfolio is essential for showcasing practical experience and operational expertise.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the AtkinsRéalis careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Curate your CV and portfolio to highlight experiences directly relevant to managing large infrastructure design projects, emphasizing your leadership in design delivery, contract management (NEC), and BIM proficiency. Prepare specific case studies showcasing your operational process improvements and team leadership.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description, such as "Design Manager," "Project Management," "NEC Contracts," "BIM," "Risk Management," and "Client Relationship Management." Quantify your achievements with specific metrics where possible to demonstrate operational impact.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project management methodologies, leadership style, and problem-solving approaches using the STAR method. Prepare a concise presentation of a key project, focusing on operational execution and outcomes.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research AtkinsRéalis, their Infrastructure PDP, and recent projects, particularly within the Defence sector. Understand their values and operational ethos to better align your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.

---