Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: JLL Location: Bristol, United Kingdom Job Type: Full-Time Category: Design & Construction Management Date Posted: February 16, 2026 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Manage and coordinate the design function on live construction schemes from tender through to the completion of construction stage design information.
• Drive innovative, cost-effective, and buildable design solutions by collaborating with appointed design partners, project teams, and subcontractors.
• Ensure effective construction phase execution through a strong understanding of site management, interface, risk, cost, and coordination principles.
• Facilitate client engagement and manage expectations throughout the early concept and design stages, ensuring alignment with project requirements and specifications.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the design process to ensure timely delivery of information for procurement and construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Design Manager" within a leading global real estate and investment management services firm (JLL). The core focus is on the design coordination and management aspects of construction projects, particularly within live, occupied environments. While the title might suggest a creative design role, the responsibilities and required skills clearly indicate a project management and construction-focused position, emphasizing technical knowledge, process adherence, and stakeholder management within the built environment sector. The mention of "aerospace/manufacturing projects" and "WIMES, Client Standards" suggests a specialized niche within construction project delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the design process for a range of projects, ensuring alignment with client briefs, budget constraints, and construction timelines.
• Foster strong working relationships with appointed design partners, actively reviewing their capabilities, ensuring deliverable dates are met, and challenging buildability and performance.
• Proactively engage with clients during concept stages, managing expectations and facilitating clear communication regarding project requirements and specifications.
• Chair and meticulously minute design team meetings and workshops, driving consensus on cost-effective solutions that meet procurement and construction needs.
• Understand and mitigate design-related risks and leverage opportunities through proactive value engineering, staying current with construction techniques and legislation.
• Develop and control comprehensive design and procurement programmes, ensuring information flow from consultants and subcontractors is managed effectively, and addressing non-performing parties robustly.
• Produce, monitor, and drive design process performance through the appropriate use of KPIs, identifying and reporting on potential issues swiftly.
• Conduct ongoing design reviews to identify potential interface problems and practical construction challenges, resolving them collaboratively with the design team and specialist subcontractors.
• Participate in subcontractor selection interviews and review subcontract enquiries for designed packages, ensuring appropriate partners are selected and terms are acceptable.
• Appoint and evaluate Design Coordinators, ensuring their terms of appointment are acceptable and that they are effectively supporting the design management function.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on process management, stakeholder coordination, and risk mitigation within the design and construction lifecycle. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, performance monitoring (KPIs), and contract management, particularly concerning design partners and subcontractors.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree qualified in a relevant construction subject (e.g., Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, Building Surveying).

Experience:

• Significant experience working as a Design Manager for a main contractor.
• Ideally, experience on aerospace or manufacturing projects within live, occupied environments.
• Proven track record of managing design from tender stage through to construction completion.

Required Skills:

• Well-developed technical construction knowledge, understanding buildability and site practicalities.
• Competent user of collaborative platforms (e.g., BIM 360, Aconex, Procore).
• Knowledge and experience of various design standards (e.g., WIMES, Client Specific Standards).
• Ability to communicate effectively with a wide range of people at all levels, both verbally and in writing.
• Adaptable and flexible to changing project demands and environments.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, reporting, organizing, and program management.
• Analytical problem-solving abilities to identify and resolve complex design and construction issues.
• Client and customer focus to build and maintain productive relationships.
• Ability to make reasoned and informed judgments and coordinate decision-making processes.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Competent user of MS Office packages (Outlook, Excel, Word).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management software such as P6 or Microsoft Project.
• Professionally qualified (e.g., C.Eng, MCIOB, RIBA, RICS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical construction acumen, project management discipline, and strong interpersonal skills. The preference for professional qualifications and specific software experience (P6, MS Project) suggests a role that values formal training and advanced project planning capabilities. Experience in specialized sectors like aerospace or manufacturing within live environments is a key differentiator.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable experience in managing the end-to-end design process for construction projects, showcasing a structured approach from inception to completion.
• Case studies detailing successful value engineering initiatives, highlighting quantifiable cost savings, efficiency improvements, and enhanced buildability.
• Examples of how design coordination was managed across multiple disciplines and stakeholders, illustrating effective communication and conflict resolution strategies.
• Documentation or descriptions of how design risks were identified, assessed, and mitigated throughout project lifecycles.
• Evidence of implementing and managing design KPIs, with examples of how these metrics drove performance and informed decision-making.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in developing and implementing design management plans that outline workflows, responsibilities, and communication protocols.
• Provide examples of process optimization within design coordination, such as streamlining information flow, improving RFI turnaround times, or enhancing design review cycles.
• Detail experience with quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) processes for design deliverables, including review stages and sign-off procedures.
• Illustrate familiarity with collaborative platforms and their role in managing design documentation, revisions, and communication in a structured, auditable manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should not only highlight completed projects but also the processes and methodologies employed to achieve successful design outcomes. This includes demonstrating a proactive, structured approach to managing design partners, controlling information, and ensuring constructability.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the UK construction sector, a competitive salary range is estimated between £55,000 - £75,000 per annum. This range can vary based on the specific complexity of projects managed, the candidate's precise experience, and JLL's internal compensation structure.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health and wellbeing programs, including access to employee assistance programs.
• Generous annual leave allowance, with potential for increases based on tenure.
• Pension scheme with employer contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and certifications.
• Access to JLL's extensive network and career advancement opportunities within the global organization.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.
• Paid time off for professional development activities.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week.
• While the role is on-site, there may be an expectation for flexibility to attend critical meetings or site visits outside of standard hours when project demands require.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on UK market data for similar roles in construction management and design coordination, considering the experience level and location. Benefits are typical for large, established corporations in the UK professional services sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Real Estate & Investment Management, Construction Services. JLL operates at the forefront of the global real estate industry, providing integrated services that span the entire real estate lifecycle. This involves a deep understanding of market dynamics, client needs, and the technical aspects of property development and management. Company Size: JLL is a large, global corporation with tens of thousands of employees worldwide, operating across numerous countries. This scale implies robust internal processes, extensive resources, and diverse career pathways. Founded: JLL was founded in 1999 through the merger of Jones Lang Wootton and LaSalle Partners, tracing its roots back to 1837. This long history signifies stability, established practices, and a deep legacy in the real estate sector.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager likely sits within a project management or construction delivery division, working closely with project directors, site managers, commercial managers, and other specialists.
• Reporting structure is likely to be to a senior project manager or head of design/construction within a specific region or business unit.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving internal JLL teams, external design consultants, subcontractors, clients, and potentially regulatory bodies.

Methodology:

• JLL emphasizes a data-driven approach to real estate services, leveraging technology and analytics to provide insights and optimize outcomes for clients.
• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in managing complex projects and ensuring efficient delivery.
• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated into project management and operational processes to enhance service delivery and client value.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: JLL's global presence and long history suggest a culture that values professionalism, client service, and innovation. The scale of the organization offers significant opportunities for career growth and exposure to diverse projects and markets. The emphasis on technology and data aligns with modern operational practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a mid-to-senior level position within the design and construction management function. It requires a solid foundation of technical knowledge and practical experience, coupled with the ability to lead and manage design processes independently. It represents a step up from a Design Coordinator role and is a key position for delivering successful construction projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will typically report to a Project Director, Senior Project Manager, or a Head of Design/Construction within JLL's project and development services division. They will, in turn, manage or coordinate the work of Design Coordinators and interface extensively with various project stakeholders, including clients, consultants, and subcontractors.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's impact is critical to project success. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. By driving value engineering and constructability, they directly influence project profitability and client satisfaction. Their role in mitigating design risks prevents costly delays and rework during the construction phase.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific sectors like aerospace or manufacturing, becoming a go-to expert for complex projects in these fields.
• Leadership Progression: Advance to Senior Design Manager, Project Director, or a leadership role within JLL's wider construction and development services, managing larger programs or teams.
• Technical Skill Development: Deepen knowledge in areas like BIM, sustainable design, or advanced construction methodologies.
• Cross-functional Moves: Transition into broader project management roles, client relationship management, or operational strategy within JLL.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager at a firm like JLL is well-defined, offering progression through increased responsibility, project complexity, and leadership scope. The emphasis on specialized project types (aerospace/manufacturing) can create a niche career trajectory.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Bristol, UK, indicating a primary work location within a JLL office or potentially a project site office, depending on the project phase and JLL's operational setup. Office Location(s): Bristol, United Kingdom. This specific location suggests a need to be physically present to manage local projects and teams.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be collaborative, involving regular interaction with project teams, design partners, and potentially clients.
• Access to standard office technology, project management software, and collaborative platforms will be provided.
• Opportunities for site visits and on-location project management will be a key aspect of the role.

Work Schedule:

• The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week.
• Due to the nature of construction project management, there may be a requirement for flexibility to attend critical site meetings, client presentations, or address urgent design issues outside of regular hours. This is common in roles where project timelines are paramount.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation is crucial. While JLL is a global organization, this specific role requires a physical presence in Bristol. The work environment will blend office-based coordination with active involvement in construction project sites.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications for basic qualifications and experience.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Senior Project Manager or Head of Design/Construction) to assess technical fit, experience, and understanding of the role's demands. This stage may involve detailed questioning about past projects and problem-solving approaches.
• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio or work through a hypothetical design challenge. This could involve reviewing a set of project documents and outlining a strategy for managing the design process, identifying risks, or proposing value engineering solutions.
• Team/Stakeholder Interview: Meeting with other team members or key stakeholders to evaluate cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication skills.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior leader, focusing on strategic thinking, leadership potential, and alignment with JLL's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically by project, clearly detailing your role, responsibilities, and the challenges faced.
• Quantify Impact: For each project, highlight achievements with specific metrics where possible – e.g., cost savings from value engineering, reduction in RFI’s, on-time design delivery.
• Showcase Process: Include examples of design management plans, risk registers, meeting minutes, or KPI dashboards you have used.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Present case studies of how you resolved complex design issues, managed difficult stakeholders, or overcame construction challenges related to design.
• Tailor to JLL: Research JLL's recent projects and values. Highlight experience relevant to their typical project types and client focus.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenarios: Be ready to discuss how you would approach managing a design team on a live, occupied aerospace/manufacturing project.
• Value Engineering: Prepare examples of how you have successfully implemented value engineering, including your process and the outcomes.
• Risk Management: Outline your methodology for identifying and mitigating design risks in complex construction environments.
• Stakeholder Management: Prepare to discuss how you manage relationships with difficult clients, underperforming design partners, or challenging subcontractors.
• Technical Knowledge: Brush up on construction methods, materials, relevant design standards (like WIMES), and collaborative platform functionalities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential case studies suggests that JLL values tangible evidence of a candidate's ability to manage complex design processes and deliver results. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their methodologies and past project successes in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Collaborative Platforms: Proficiency with industry-standard collaborative platforms is essential. Examples include Autodesk Construction Cloud (including BIM 360), Aconex, Procore, or similar systems used for document management, communication, and workflow automation in construction projects.
• Project Management Software: Experience with P6 (Primavera) or Microsoft Project is desirable for detailed program management, scheduling, and resource allocation.
• MS Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Outlook, Excel (for data analysis, reporting, and KPI tracking), and Word (for documentation and reporting) is a fundamental requirement.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For detailed data analysis, creating reports, and tracking KPIs related to design progress, cost, and performance.
• Reporting Dashboards: Familiarity with creating or interpreting dashboards for project performance, potentially using integrated features within collaborative platforms or dedicated BI tools if used by JLL.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary focus for this role, an understanding of how CRM systems and project management automation tools support client management and workflow efficiency within JLL's broader operations would be beneficial.
• Experience with systems that facilitate information flow and approvals within the design and construction lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools crucial for managing complex construction projects, with a strong focus on collaboration, scheduling, and reporting. Competence in these areas is critical for effective design management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Focus: A commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations, delivering exceptional service and value in all aspects of design management.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with clients, partners, and team members, fostering trust and transparency.
• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to drive efficiency and improve design outcomes.
• Excellence: A dedication to achieving high standards of quality, performance, and professionalism in all project deliverables and team interactions.
• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective effort drives project success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively working with project managers, site teams, commercial departments, and external consultants to ensure seamless integration of design into overall project delivery.
• Proactive Communication: Maintaining open, clear, and consistent communication channels with all stakeholders, ensuring everyone is informed and aligned on design progress and any potential issues.
• Constructive Challenge: Encouraging a culture where ideas can be debated constructively, and design solutions are challenged to ensure optimal buildability, cost-effectiveness, and adherence to standards.
• Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the sharing of lessons learned and best practices within the design team and across JLL projects to drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: JLL's values likely reflect a professional, client-centric, and performance-driven culture. For an operations role like Design Manager, embodying these values means ensuring projects are managed efficiently, ethically, and with a strong focus on delivering value to clients.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Design in Live Environments: Ensuring minimal disruption to existing operations or occupants while delivering new construction or fit-out works. This requires meticulous planning, communication, and site management.
• Balancing Conflicting Project Demands: Effectively managing trade-offs between cost, program, quality, and client requirements, often under tight deadlines.
• Coordinating Diverse Stakeholders: Navigating the complexities of working with multiple design consultants, specialist subcontractors, and client representatives, each with their own objectives.
• Keeping Pace with Evolving Standards & Technologies: Staying current with new construction techniques, materials, design software (e.g., BIM advancements), and regulatory changes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM Training: Deepening expertise in Building Information Modeling for enhanced design coordination and clash detection.
• Specialized Sector Training: Gaining further knowledge in aerospace or manufacturing construction standards and requirements.
• Leadership Development Programs: Participating in JLL's internal programs to hone leadership, strategic planning, and team management skills.
• Professional Certifications: Pursuing or maintaining professional qualifications (e.g., MCIOB, RICS) or specialized certifications in project management or construction.
• Mentorship: Access to experienced senior leaders within JLL for guidance on career development and navigating complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to complex construction projects, particularly those in sensitive or specialized environments. JLL's commitment to learning and development offers a clear path for professional growth and skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design process for a complex project in a live, occupied environment. What are the key risks you identify, and how do you mitigate them?" (Focus on process, risk management, and stakeholder communication).
• "Walk me through a value engineering exercise you led. What was the project, what solutions did you propose, and what was the quantifiable outcome?" (Focus on analytical skills, cost-saving, and collaboration).
• "How do you ensure effective communication and coordination between design partners, subcontractors, and the client throughout the project lifecycle?" (Focus on stakeholder management and communication strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about JLL and our approach to real estate services and construction management?" (Demonstrate research into JLL's business, values, and recent projects).
• "How do you align your professional values with JLL's stated values (e.g., Integrity, Teamwork, Excellence)?" (Connect your work ethic and approach to JLL's culture).
• "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts, beyond just on-time and on-budget delivery?" (Focus on quality, client satisfaction, buildability, and operational efficiency).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative: For each project, tell a story: the challenge, your role and actions, and the successful outcome.
• Visuals: Use clear visuals (drawings, photos, diagrams) where appropriate to illustrate design complexity or construction challenges.
• Metrics: Emphasize quantifiable results – cost savings, schedule improvements, reduction in defects, client feedback.
• Process Focus: Clearly articulate the design management processes you followed, including how you managed interfaces, risks, and information flow.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful examples.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of design management within the construction context, highlighting problem-solving abilities, stakeholder management skills, and a results-oriented approach, all aligned with JLL's operational standards.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the JLL careers portal via the provided link.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects, focusing on those that showcase your experience in managing design for main contractors, particularly in complex or live environments. Ensure you can clearly articulate your role, the challenges, your process, and the measurable outcomes.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and responsibilities from this job description, such as "Design Management," "Value Engineering," "Interface Management," "Client Relationship Management," and your experience with specific software or project types (e.g., aerospace, manufacturing).
• Research JLL: Understand JLL's global presence, their approach to real estate services, and their commitment to clients and innovation. Familiarize yourself with their recent projects and company values.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions, and be ready to discuss your technical approach to design management challenges.

⚠️ 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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