Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: Lendlease (Bovis) Location: Cirencester, England, United Kingdom Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Construction Design Management / GTM Operations Date Posted: 2025-10-03 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage the entire design process from conception to completion, ensuring alignment with project timelines and cost plans.
• Foster strong collaborative relationships between external design consultants, internal construction and commercial teams, and client stakeholders.
• Drive value engineering initiatives to identify cost-effective design alternatives without compromising quality or project objectives.
• Ensure all design information is buildable, safe, and meets the specified Employer's Requirements or project brief.
• Lead and motivate external design teams, utilizing a Design Responsibility Matrix to define consultant scopes and ensure accountability.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is primarily in Design Management within construction, its focus on process, stakeholder management, and ensuring timely, cost-effective delivery of project requirements aligns closely with GTM Operations principles. The emphasis on bridging external consultants with internal delivery teams is a key operational function. This role is classified under Construction Design Management, with GTM Operations as a secondary alignment due to its process-driven nature.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Ensure timely delivery of all design information to meet project programme and cost plan objectives.
• Verify that all design information is constructible, safe, and adheres to the quality standards of the project design stage.
• Confirm that design information complies with Contractor's Proposals, Employer's Requirements, or the project brief, identifying and scheduling any deviations.
• Proactively contribute to value engineering, seeking sensible and practical design alternatives while maintaining core design essence and quality.
• Manage the supply chain for design deliverables by leading, motivating, and managing external consultants.
• Define the scope of services for each Design Team consultant using a Design Responsibility Matrix.
• Review the Design Team's BIM capabilities and deliverables, contributing to the preparation of the Project BIM Execution Plan.
• Act as a trusted and valued member of the site-based construction team, facilitating seamless integration of design into execution.
• Liaise effectively with Statutory Authorities to ensure design compliance and obtain necessary approvals.
• Interface directly with the client team to ensure design vision and requirements are met throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities highlight a strong operational focus on process management, risk mitigation (buildability, safety, deviations), and stakeholder coordination, which are critical in any GTM or Revenue Operations context. The emphasis on timely delivery and cost control mirrors operational KPIs.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Registered professional within the construction industry, such as a Registered Architect or Chartered Engineer.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: While a specific degree isn't mandated, professional registration strongly implies a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant field (Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management).

Experience:

• Extensive post-qualification experience within the construction industry.
• Proven track record in leading external design teams and managing design consultants.
• Experience working on public sector projects, specifically within the Defence Optimisation Programme (DEOP), is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to integrate into and contribute effectively within a site-based construction team environment.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Comprehensive understanding of the design lifecycle in construction projects.
• Construction Industry Expertise: In-depth knowledge of construction processes, methodologies, and regulatory requirements.
• Team Leadership: Ability to lead, motivate, and manage diverse teams of consultants and stakeholders.
• Value Engineering: Skill in identifying and implementing cost-effective design solutions.
• BIM Proficiency: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) capabilities and execution plans.
• Project Programme Management: Ability to schedule and deliver design information according to project timelines.
• Cost Control: Understanding of project cost plans and ability to manage design within budget.
• Risk Management: Proactive identification and mitigation of design-related risks.
• Stakeholder Management: Effective communication and relationship building with clients, consultants, and authorities.
• Contractual Knowledge: Understanding of Employer's Requirements and Contractor's Proposals.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with National Security Vetting procedures and requirements.
• Proficiency in developing and utilizing Design Responsibility Matrices.
• Strong negotiation and influencing skills.
• Advanced BIM software knowledge.
• Experience in public sector defense projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for extensive post-qualification experience and professional registration points towards a senior-level role, demanding a deep operational understanding of construction project lifecycles and risk management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation showcasing successful management of the design process for complex construction projects.
• Case studies demonstrating effective value engineering initiatives with quantifiable results.
• Examples of Design Responsibility Matrices and their application in consultant management.
• Evidence of experience in developing and implementing BIM Execution Plans.
• Project documentation highlighting successful liaison with statutory authorities and client teams.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrated ability to document and streamline design workflows for efficiency and clarity.
• Experience in creating and managing design delivery schedules.
• Records of implementing quality assurance processes for design information.
• Examples of risk registers and mitigation strategies for design-related issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a "portfolio requirement" in the traditional sense of a GTM operations role, the emphasis on demonstrating successful management of design processes, value engineering, and BIM execution plans implies a need for candidates to showcase their practical application of these skills, much like an operations professional would present their process improvements or system implementations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Not explicitly stated. Based on the experience level (10+ years), professional qualifications, and the complexity of managing design for large-scale public sector projects in the UK, a competitive salary range is expected. For a Design Manager with this profile in Cirencester, UK, the estimated annual salary range would likely be between £60,000 and £85,000, depending on specific experience, qualifications, and the exact scope of the DEOP project.

Benefits:

• Car allowance
• Flexible and hybrid work options
• Up to 10% employer pension contribution
• Private medical health benefit
• Enhanced parental leave
• Life assurance
• 25 days annual leave with the option to buy or sell additional days
• 3 days wellbeing leave in addition to annual leave
• Health and wellbeing support and initiatives
• 24/7 confidential Employee Assistance Programme including direct access to Talking Therapies and Coaching services
• Discounted gym membership to over 2,500 gyms nationwide

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are assumed, likely around 40 hours per week. The role offers hybrid flexibility, suggesting a balance between on-site and remote work.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model allows for operational flexibility, crucial for managing design processes and attending site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical industry benchmarks for Design Managers in the UK construction sector with over 10 years of experience, adjusted for location (Cirencester, which is outside major metropolitan hubs but still a professional market) and the specialist nature of the Defence Optimisation Programme. Data sources for such estimates typically include salary aggregators like Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and industry-specific recruitment reports.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Property Development, Infrastructure. Lendlease (Bovis) operates within a sector that requires precision, safety, and long-term vision. Company Size: Lendlease is a global property and infrastructure group. While the specific size of the Bovis UK division isn't detailed, Lendlease globally employs tens of thousands of people, indicating a large, established organization with robust operational frameworks. Founded: Bovis has a long history in construction, dating back centuries, and is now part of Lendlease, a company founded in 1958. This combination signifies deep industry experience and a forward-looking approach.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will be part of a site-based construction team, working closely with Project Managers, Commercial Managers, Site Engineers, and Health & Safety officers.
• This role involves extensive liaison with external design consultants (architects, engineers, BIM specialists) and client representatives.
• Reporting lines likely lead to a Senior Project Manager or Construction Director, with direct accountability for design delivery.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: While not direct data analysis in a software sense, the role requires interpreting technical drawings, specifications, and reports to inform design decisions and identify potential issues.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: A key function is to plan and optimize the design delivery process to align with construction schedules and budgets.
• Automation & Efficiency Practices: While not focused on software automation, the role emphasizes efficient collaboration and process management, including leveraging BIM for better coordination and reducing rework.

Company Website: https://www.lendlease.com/uk/ (Note: The job posting URL is for Workday, but Lendlease is the parent company.)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "building enduring partnerships," "bringing together the right expertise," and "making things happen" points to a culture that values strong relationships, proactive problem-solving, and efficient execution – all hallmarks of effective operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management position within the design and construction lifecycle. It requires significant experience and professional accreditation, placing it at a highly experienced individual contributor or team lead level, with potential for progression into broader project management or director roles. Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior project leadership within the construction business unit and will lead external design consultants. This structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration and direct influence over critical project components. Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is pivotal to the operational success of construction projects. Effective design management directly impacts project cost, schedule adherence, buildability, safety, and overall quality, thereby influencing profitability and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Potential to deepen expertise in large-scale project delivery, public sector contracts, and advanced BIM implementation.
• Leadership Development: Opportunity to lead larger design teams, manage more complex projects, and potentially transition into roles like Project Director or Head of Design for specific business units.
• Specialization: Develop expertise in niche areas of construction design, particularly within the defense sector related to the DEOP.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain deeper understanding of commercial, site operations, and client management aspects of large construction projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path from Design Manager often leads to roles with broader operational oversight, such as Program Director or Head of Construction Operations, especially within organizations like Lendlease that manage complex, multi-year initiatives.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work arrangement. This suggests a mix of remote work and on-site presence at project locations or company offices. Office Location(s): Primarily based in Cirencester, England, with potential for travel to project sites, including those related to the Defence Optimisation Programme. Birmingham is also listed as a potential location, indicating flexibility or regional project needs.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close collaboration with internal construction teams and external design partners, fostering a dynamic and interactive workspace.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard office technology, construction management software, and BIM platforms will be expected.
• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with project teams, consultants, and client representatives will be integral to the role.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule (approx. 40 hours/week) is anticipated, with the flexibility afforded by the hybrid work arrangement. Project demands may occasionally require extended hours, particularly during critical design or construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model supports operational efficiency by allowing focused work at home and collaborative engagement on-site, a common setup for GTM and operations roles that blend analytical tasks with stakeholder interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application for essential qualifications (professional registration, experience).
• First Interview: Likely with a hiring manager or senior project lead to assess experience, technical knowledge, and cultural fit. Expect questions on design management philosophy, problem-solving approaches, and team leadership.
• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a presentation of past projects (portfolio review), a case study exercise focusing on design challenges or value engineering, or an assessment centre. This stage will evaluate practical application of skills and strategic thinking.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a Director or senior executive to confirm suitability and discuss long-term career alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Project Case Studies: Select 2-3 significant projects that clearly demonstrate your design management capabilities. For each, detail the project scope, your specific role, challenges faced, solutions implemented (especially value engineering and BIM usage), and quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, quality enhancements, risk reduction).
• Process Documentation: Be prepared to discuss your methodologies for managing design workflows, risk registers, and consultant performance. Highlight your approach to ensuring buildability and safety.
• BIM Integration: Showcase examples of how you've leveraged BIM for design coordination, clash detection, and information delivery.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Provide examples of successful client liaison and collaboration with statutory bodies.
• Tailor to DEOP: If possible, highlight any experience relevant to defense projects or highly secure environments.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical design challenge within the DEOP context, focusing on problem identification, stakeholder consultation, and proposing innovative, cost-effective solutions.
• Prepare to articulate your strategy for managing a design team under pressure, ensuring quality and adherence to programme.
• Practice presenting your project successes concisely and impactfully, focusing on your role and the operational outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review for this role focuses on demonstrable project execution and process management, akin to an operations professional presenting their achievements in system implementation or process optimization.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Likely used for tracking progress, resources, and deadlines (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).
• Design Software: While not directly using CAD/BIM software daily, the Design Manager must understand and oversee their use. This includes:
  • Revit, AutoCAD: For 2D/3D design and drafting.
  • Navisworks: For BIM model aggregation, clash detection, and walkthroughs.
  • BIM 360/ACC: For cloud-based collaboration and project management in BIM.
• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, email for communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Internal company systems for project financial tracking, progress reporting, and risk assessment.
• Data Visualization: Potentially used to present project status and design metrics to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: Not typically a core tool for a Design Manager, but understanding client relationship management is key.
• Automation: Focus on process automation within the design delivery workflow, such as automated clash detection reports or standardized document generation, rather than software-driven sales/marketing automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools for project execution and collaboration, reflecting the operational nature of managing complex deliverables in a construction environment. Proficiency in understanding BIM workflows is crucial.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Do What's Right, Always: Emphasizes integrity, ethical conduct, and adherence to safety and quality standards in all design decisions.
• Succeed Together: Promotes collaboration, teamwork, and shared responsibility for project success across internal teams and external partners.
• Bring Energy: Encourages proactive engagement, enthusiasm, and a can-do attitude in tackling design challenges.
• Be Bovis: Fosters a sense of shared identity and commitment to the company's mission and values.
• Building Relationships: Highlights the importance of strong, enduring partnerships with all stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a highly integrated approach, requiring constant communication and alignment between design, construction, commercial, and client teams.
• Process Review Culture: Openness to feedback and continuous improvement of design and delivery processes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement to share lessons learned and best practices across projects and teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values are deeply embedded in operational principles: integrity in execution, collaborative problem-solving, energetic pursuit of goals, and relationship-based project delivery.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Conflicting Demands: Juggling project programme, cost constraints, quality requirements, and client expectations while ensuring buildability and safety.
• Managing External Consultants: Ensuring alignment, performance, and timely delivery from a diverse group of external stakeholders.
• Navigating Public Sector/Defence Requirements: Understanding and complying with stringent regulations, security protocols (National Security Vetting), and specific project briefs for the DEOP.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with advancements in BIM and construction technologies and integrating them effectively.
• Site Integration: Bridging the gap between design intent and practical site execution.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in large-scale project management, contractual frameworks, and risk management within the construction sector.
• Industry Certifications: Pursue advanced certifications in project management (e.g., PMP) or BIM.
• Leadership Development: Participate in leadership programs offered by Lendlease to hone management and strategic planning skills.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders within Lendlease and to mentor junior design professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented require strong operational acumen, resilience, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, mirroring typical GTM operations challenges.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design process for a complex public sector project, particularly one with security implications like the DEOP." (Focus on phased delivery, risk mitigation, stakeholder communication, and compliance.)
• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and alignment between external design consultants and an internal construction team, especially when there are conflicting priorities?" (Highlight your communication strategies, use of tools like BIM coordination, and conflict resolution techniques.)
• "Provide an example of a significant design challenge you faced and how you applied value engineering to resolve it, detailing the process and outcomes." (Structure your answer using STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result, emphasizing your analytical and problem-solving skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Lendlease and its commitment to building enduring partnerships?" (Research Lendlease's mission, values, and recent projects.)
• "How do you embody the company values, such as 'Do What's Right, Always' and 'Succeed Together' in your daily work?" (Prepare specific examples from your career.)
• "What is your experience with hybrid working environments and how do you maintain productivity and team cohesion?" (Discuss your strategies for remote and on-site collaboration.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly outlining your role, project scope, key challenges, your specific actions (design management, value engineering, BIM), and the quantifiable results.
• Metrics: Be ready to discuss metrics related to cost savings, schedule adherence, reduction in RFIs (Requests for Information), defect rates, and safety incidents attributable to design quality.
• Storytelling: Frame your project examples as compelling narratives that showcase your problem-solving abilities and operational impact.
• DEOP Relevance: Emphasize any aspects of your experience that align with the security and complexity of the Defence Optimisation Programme.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a robust understanding of project lifecycles, risk management, and stakeholder engagement, all underpinned by a structured, operations-minded approach to design delivery.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://lendlease.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/LendleaseCareers/job/Cirencester/Design-Manager_REQ-7064319
• Customize Your Resume: Highlight your professional registration (e.g., Chartered Engineer, Registered Architect), extensive post-qualification experience, and specific achievements in design management, value engineering, and BIM. Tailor keywords to match the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your capabilities in managing complex design processes, stakeholder liaison, and delivering buildable, cost-effective solutions. Be ready to present these with clear metrics and outcomes.
• Research Lendlease and the DEOP: Understand the company's values, culture, and the strategic importance of the Defence Optimisation Programme. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.
• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare thoughtful answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples and your strategic approach to design and project 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. The National Security Vetting requirement is critical and should be understood by all potential applicants.

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