Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager
Company: City of Parramatta External Careers Site
Location: Parramatta, New South Wales, Australia
Job Type: Full-time Contract
Category: Urban Planning & Design / Project Management
Date Posted: 2025-10-17
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the design phases of complex public domain projects, ensuring alignment with the City of Parramatta's strategic goals for urban development and sustainability.
• Drive consultative and technically rigorous design processes to deliver inspiring and enduring community infrastructure.
• Oversee consultants and contractors to achieve design excellence, technical rigor, and cost-effectiveness in project delivery.
• Conduct thorough design reviews and advocate for City standards, ensuring high-quality, coordinated documentation.
• Engage effectively with internal and external stakeholders to develop project briefs and design solutions that meet diverse objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's focus on "public domain projects with complex urban design, transport and environmental challenges" and "specialist landscape architecture and public domain design review and advice" strongly indicates a need for expertise in urban planning, landscape architecture, and infrastructure project management. The "Global City" transformation context implies a significant scale and strategic importance for this role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage the end-to-end design processes for public domain and community infrastructure projects, from conceptualization through to detailed design.
• Ensure all design outcomes are compliant with City policies related to design, sustainability, heritage, accessibility, materials, and long-term maintenance.
• Collaborate closely with urban design, transport, land use, economic development, and environmental teams to integrate project delivery with Council's overarching strategic objectives.
• Manage external consultants and contractors, setting clear expectations for performance, quality, and adherence to project timelines and budgets.
• Conduct comprehensive design reviews, providing expert advice and ensuring that all developed documentation is thorough, well-coordinated, and meets the highest quality standards.
• Facilitate and lead consultations with internal departments, community groups, and other external stakeholders to gather input, build consensus, and refine design briefs and solutions.
• Prepare specialist design advice and reviews for state infrastructure projects as required, ensuring the City's interests and standards are represented.
• Contribute to the development of project briefs and requirements, translating strategic goals into tangible design objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility to "Conduct design reviews and advocate for City standards" suggests a significant level of technical authority and a need to influence project direction. The requirement to "Engage with internal and external stakeholders to develop project briefs and design solutions" highlights the importance of strong interpersonal and consultative skills, typical of a Design Manager role in a public sector context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree level qualifications in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Urban Design, or a closely related discipline.

Experience:

• Proven experience in managing design processes for complex urban landscape and public domain projects within either the public or private sector.
• Demonstrated track record of successfully achieving project objectives, including design excellence, budget adherence, and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Extensive experience in project management, encompassing both design and delivery phases of significant infrastructure or urban development projects.

Required Skills:

• Deep understanding of public space design principles, function, and performance, with a proven ability to integrate community needs, heritage considerations, active transport, and environmental sustainability.
• Strong project management capabilities, with expertise in managing design consultants and contractors.
• Exceptional client and stakeholder management skills, supported by outstanding verbal and written communication abilities.
• Practical knowledge of relevant Australian legislation, planning regulations, and local government requirements pertinent to urban development and public works.
• Proficiency in conducting and leading design reviews, providing constructive feedback and ensuring adherence to technical and aesthetic standards.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently, prioritizing tasks and managing timelines effectively within a dynamic urban development environment.
• Experience in developing and managing project briefs and design documentation.

Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with the City of Parramatta's specific planning policies, design guidelines, and strategic development frameworks.
• Experience with public procurement processes and contract management for design services.
• Knowledge of environmental impact assessment processes and sustainable design certifications (e.g., Green Star).
• Experience in community engagement and consultation methodologies for design projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of "Degree level qualifications in landscape architecture, architecture, or a related discipline" and "Proven understanding of public space design, function and performance" strongly indicates a preference for candidates with a background in Landscape Architecture or a very closely aligned field, with a focus on the practical application of design principles in public settings.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of successfully managed public domain or complex urban landscape design projects from inception to completion.
• Case studies highlighting design challenges, problem-solving approaches, and the successful integration of sustainability, community, heritage, and transport considerations.
• Evidence of managing design consultants and contractors, showcasing effective oversight and quality assurance processes.
• Documentation showcasing adherence to design standards, policy compliance, and the achievement of specified project outcomes.
• Examples of project briefs, design review documentation, and stakeholder engagement summaries.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase of experience in developing and documenting design processes, including consultation, review, and approval stages.
• Examples of how design processes were adapted to meet specific project complexities and stakeholder requirements.
• Evidence of implementing and managing quality assurance processes within design workflows to ensure technical rigor and design excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's emphasis on managing design phases, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase completed projects but also detail the candidate's role in managing the design process, including consultant management, stakeholder engagement, and adherence to policy and technical standards. This aligns with typical expectations for a Design Manager role in a public sector infrastructure context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $113,019 - $124,433 AUD per annum (plus 12% superannuation)

Benefits:

• Contract Duration: Opportunity for a full-time term contract until June 2027.
• Superannuation: Attractive 12% superannuation contribution.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Access to a range of flexible work options, including hybrid work-from-home arrangements.
• Parental Leave: Generous 14 weeks of paid parental leave.
• Long Service Leave: Entitlement to Long Service Leave after 5 years of service.
• Leave Benefits: Significant additional leave benefits, including up to 12 days of flexi-time, 3 additional leave days during the Christmas period, 15 days of sick/personal leave (including 2 days of health and wellbeing leave annually).
• Location Amenities: Central Parramatta location with convenient public transport access and discounted parking options.
• Health & Wellbeing: Comprehensive Health and Wellbeing programs, including access to Fitness Passport and annual flu vaccinations.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and career development.

Working Hours: Full-time employment. While specific daily hours are not detailed, a standard full-time workweek in Australia is typically 38-40 hours. The hybrid work arrangement suggests some flexibility in structuring the workday.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific and competitive for a Design Manager role in Sydney, Australia. The extensive list of benefits, particularly the generous leave entitlements and flexible work options, reflects the City of Parramatta's commitment to employee wellbeing and work-life balance, which is a significant draw for candidates in the public sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Government & Public Sector; Urban Planning & Development; Infrastructure. Company Size: Large (likely over 1,000 employees, typical for a major city council). Founded: The City of Parramatta has a long history, with its modern council structure evolving over time. The focus on current transformation implies a forward-thinking and dynamic operational environment.

Team Structure:

• This role sits within the City Planning and Design Directorate, indicating a specialized team focused on shaping the city's physical and functional development.
• The Directorate likely comprises various specialists including urban planners, designers, architects, landscape architects, transport planners, and project managers.
• Reporting structure is expected to be to a Director or Senior Manager within the City Planning and Design Directorate, with direct management of consultants and potentially junior design staff or project coordinators.
• Cross-functional collaboration will be essential, working closely with departments responsible for infrastructure delivery, community services, economic development, and environmental management.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data and evidence to inform design decisions and strategic planning.
• Collaborative Design: A consultative approach involving internal teams, external stakeholders, and community input to ensure designs are inclusive and meet diverse needs.
• Strategic Alignment: Design projects are directly linked to the Council's broader strategic goals for city transformation, sustainability, and economic growth.
• Technical Excellence: A strong focus on rigorous technical standards, quality assurance, and adherence to best practices in urban design and landscape architecture.
• Continuous Improvement: An environment that embraces change and seeks to optimize processes and outcomes, particularly in response to the city's rapid growth.

Company Website: https://www.cityofparramatta.nsw.gov.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description highlights "unprecedented change and transformation" and the goal of becoming a "Global City." This suggests a dynamic, growth-oriented environment where innovation and strategic execution are highly valued. For a Design Manager, this means working on high-profile, impactful projects that will shape the future of a major urban center.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations of a large municipal government. It requires significant experience in design management and project execution, with a focus on strategic alignment and stakeholder engagement. It is a key role in delivering the council's ambitious urban development agenda.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior leader within the City Planning and Design Directorate. They will be responsible for managing external consultants and potentially junior team members, requiring leadership and mentoring capabilities. The role necessitates strong collaboration with various internal departments and external government agencies.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on the physical transformation of the City of Parramatta. Successful management of design processes for public domain projects contributes to enhanced liveability, economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and cultural vibrancy, directly influencing the quality of life for residents and the attractiveness of the city for investment and tourism. The role is critical in ensuring that the city's growth is managed in a planned, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing manner.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of urban design, sustainable infrastructure, or heritage conservation within the context of a major city.
• Leadership Development: Potential to move into more senior management roles within the City Planning and Design Directorate, or to lead larger, more complex multi-disciplinary projects.
• Strategic Influence: Contribute to the strategic direction of urban planning and design for a rapidly growing global city.
• Professional Networking: Build extensive networks with public sector officials, private sector consultants, and community stakeholders.
• Project Portfolio: Gain experience on a portfolio of high-profile, transformative projects that offer significant resume-building opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "term contract up to June 2027" suggests this is an opportunity to make a significant impact on key projects within a defined timeframe. Growth potential might involve converting to a permanent role or moving to other strategic projects within the council or broader government sector, leveraging the experience gained.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The City of Parramatta likely offers a modern, professional office environment typical of a large municipal council. This includes collaborative workspaces, meeting rooms, and individual workstations. The hybrid work arrangement indicates a flexible approach to where work is performed.

Office Location(s): The primary office is centrally located in Parramatta, New South Wales. This location is well-served by public transport, making it accessible for employees. Discounted parking is also mentioned, catering to those who drive.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office serves as a hub for team meetings, workshops, and cross-functional collaboration, essential for managing complex design projects.
• Technology-Enabled: Access to standard office technology, design software (likely on workstations), and communication tools necessary for managing projects and engaging with stakeholders.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with colleagues within the City Planning and Design Directorate, fostering knowledge sharing and team cohesion. The hybrid model allows for focused individual work at home and collaborative engagement in the office.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours are expected, with a hybrid arrangement offering flexibility. This means employees can balance working from the office with remote work, allowing for dedicated time for focused tasks and personal commitments. The schedule is designed to support efficient project delivery while promoting work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "Central Parramatta location (Public transport at our door, discounted parking)" and "hybrid WFH arrangements" points to a modern, employee-centric work environment that values accessibility and flexibility, common in progressive public sector organizations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: While not explicitly detailed, a typical process for a role of this level in local government might include:

• Initial Screening: Review of application, cover letter, and CV against the essential criteria.
• First Interview: Likely with the hiring manager (Adam Fowler) and potentially an HR representative, focusing on experience, skills, and understanding of the role's requirements.
• Technical Assessment/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio of their work, discuss case studies, or undertake a short design-related exercise. This is where portfolio review is critical.
• Second Interview: Potentially with a panel including senior management from the Directorate, focusing on strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and cultural fit.
• Reference Checks: Verification of employment history and performance.
• Pre-employment Checks: Criminal history check and potentially others as required by the council.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most relevant and impactful projects that demonstrate your experience in managing complex urban public domain design.
• Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities, design contributions, and management of consultants/stakeholders in each project.
• Showcase Process: Include examples of project briefs, design development stages, consultation summaries, and your role in design reviews.
• Demonstrate Impact: Quantify outcomes where possible (e.g., improved community usage, sustainability metrics achieved, cost savings, successful stakeholder satisfaction).
• Address City Policies: If possible, reference how your past work aligns with principles of sustainability, heritage, accessibility, and community integration, mirroring the City of Parramatta's stated priorities.
• Concise Presentation: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio efficiently, focusing on key highlights and answering specific questions about your experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: Research the City of Parramatta's Urban Development Strategy, key projects (e.g., Parramatta Square, Western Sydney Aerotropolis interface), and design guidelines.
• Prepare Case Studies: Be ready to discuss your experience managing projects with similar complexities (urban design, transport integration, community engagement).
• Anticipate Questions: Prepare for questions about stakeholder management, conflict resolution, managing design consultants, ensuring design quality, and aligning design with strategic goals.
• Articulate Vision: Be ready to discuss your vision for public domain design and how you approach creating inspiring and sustainable urban spaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement to attach a "Cover Letter addressing how their experience & skills meet the requirements of this role" is a strong indicator that simply submitting a CV is insufficient. Candidates must tailor their application to demonstrate a clear understanding of the role's demands and how their background directly addresses them. The portfolio is implicitly crucial for a Design Manager role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project, or similar for tracking project timelines, tasks, and resources.
• Design Software: While the role is management-focused, familiarity with the output of design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop) is beneficial for understanding design documentation and reviews.
• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency with Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal and external communication and document sharing.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with council-specific or enterprise-level document repository systems for managing project files.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to interpret and report on project progress, budget status, and design milestone achievements.
• Data Analysis: While not a primary data analyst role, understanding how to use data to inform design decisions and assess project performance is key.

CRM & Automation:

• Stakeholder Management Tools: While not a formal CRM, effective management of contact lists and communication logs for internal and external stakeholders is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description focuses heavily on management, process, and stakeholder engagement rather than specific software tools. However, a Design Manager in this context would be expected to be proficient in project management tools and to understand the outputs of common design and visualization software used by their teams and consultants.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values: The City of Parramatta emphasizes the following core values:

• Integrity: Acting with honesty and transparency in all dealings.
• Collaboration: Working together effectively across teams and with external partners.
• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities and delivering on commitments.
• Innovation: Embracing new ideas and approaches to solve challenges and improve outcomes.
• Customer Focus: Prioritizing the needs and well-being of the community and stakeholders.
• Sustainability: Committing to environmentally responsible practices and long-term city resilience.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A strong emphasis on working collaboratively with diverse departments to ensure integrated city planning and development.
• Open Communication: Encouraging clear, respectful, and constructive dialogue among team members and with external partners.
• Consultative Approach: Valuing input from all levels and disciplines to foster a shared understanding and buy-in for design solutions.
• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement in design processes and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of reviewing the "Values Flyer" and "Values and Behaviours" documents indicates that cultural fit and alignment with the council's stated values are critical for applicants. Candidates should prepare to discuss how their work ethic and professional conduct embody these principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Competing Interests: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of various stakeholders (community, council departments, state agencies, developers) on complex public domain projects.
• Navigating Bureaucracy: Working within the established processes and regulatory frameworks of a large local government organization.
• Delivering Under Pressure: Meeting tight deadlines and budget constraints while maintaining high standards of design quality and technical rigor, especially within the context of rapid city transformation.
• Integrating Complex Systems: Ensuring seamless integration of landscape architecture, urban design, transport infrastructure, and environmental considerations into cohesive public spaces.
• Adapting to Change: Responding effectively to evolving city strategies, policy updates, and emerging design trends in a dynamic urban environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Major Projects: Gaining hands-on experience managing design for transformative urban development projects that will significantly shape a major city.
• Professional Networking: Building relationships with key figures in urban planning, design, and government across the Sydney metropolitan area.
• Skill Enhancement: Developing advanced skills in stakeholder management, complex project coordination, and strategic design advocacy.
• Mentorship: Potential to learn from senior leaders within the City Planning and Design Directorate and contribute to the development of future design talent.
• Industry Trends: Staying at the forefront of urban design best practices, sustainability initiatives, and smart city technologies through project work and potential professional development activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's context within a "Global City" transformation implies high-stakes projects. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they handle pressure, manage complex stakeholder dynamics, and adapt to evolving project requirements, which are common challenges in large-scale urban development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex public domain project you managed from design through to delivery. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and results)
• "How do you ensure that design solutions for public spaces effectively integrate community needs, heritage, transport, and environmental sustainability?" (Assesses understanding of core design principles and integration)
• "Explain your approach to managing design consultants and contractors to achieve design excellence and ensure technical rigor within budget and timeline constraints." (Evaluates project management and quality assurance skills)
• "How do you handle conflicting stakeholder interests during the design process? Provide an example." (Tests stakeholder management and negotiation skills)
• "What is your understanding of the City of Parramatta's strategic vision for its future development, and how would your design philosophy contribute to it?" (Assesses strategic alignment and foresight)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you embody the City of Parramatta's core values (Integrity, Collaboration, Accountability, Innovation, Customer Focus, Sustainability) in your professional practice?" (Evaluates cultural fit)
• "Describe your experience working within a government or large organizational structure. How do you navigate internal processes and collaborate effectively across departments?" (Assesses adaptability and teamwork)
• "What is your approach to fostering a collaborative and inclusive team environment, especially when managing external consultants?" (Explores leadership and team dynamics)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the brief/problem, your role, the design process, key decisions, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the final outcome/impact.
• Visual Aids: Use high-quality images, plans, and diagrams to illustrate your work effectively.
• Focus on Management: Emphasize your role in managing the design process, consultants, and stakeholders, rather than solely focusing on design creation.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data to demonstrate the success of your projects (e.g., user numbers, environmental benefits, cost savings, community feedback).
• Conciseness is Key: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a specified timeframe, highlighting the most relevant aspects for this role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their experience in a public sector context, demonstrating an understanding of regulatory requirements, community engagement, and the strategic importance of public domain projects in city development. Researching current City of Parramatta projects and strategies will be highly beneficial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit Application: Apply online via the City of Parramatta External Careers Site.
• Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Clearly address how your experience and skills directly meet the requirements outlined in the job description and Position Description. Highlight your experience in managing complex urban landscape or public domain projects and your understanding of public space design.
• Update Your CV: Ensure your CV is current and emphasizes achievements relevant to project management, design leadership, stakeholder engagement, and public sector or large-scale development projects.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select and organize your most relevant project examples. Be ready to showcase your management of design processes, consultant oversight, and stakeholder consultation. Focus on case studies that demonstrate technical rigor, design excellence, and alignment with principles of sustainability, heritage, and community integration.
• Research the City of Parramatta: Familiarize yourself with their current strategic plans, urban development projects, and design guidelines to demonstrate a genuine interest and understanding of their vision.

⚠️ 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.

---