Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager
Company: Sisk (Vision Built)
Location: Galway-Co. Galway, Ireland
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Design Management / Construction Operations
Date Posted: February 09, 2026
Experience Level: 7+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage graphics and design teams within a modular/MMC (Modern Methods of Construction) environment, ensuring efficient project delivery.
• Drive the quality and adherence to design standards and directives for all projects.
• Foster strong collaboration between internal design teams and other departments to achieve overarching design goals.
• Manage project budgets, ensuring financial viability and regular analysis of expenditures.
• Mentor and motivate design team members, guiding their professional development and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for integrating design processes within a modern offsite construction framework, requiring a blend of technical design oversight and people management skills. The emphasis on modular and MMC environments suggests a need for understanding prefabrication, lean construction principles, and fast-paced project cycles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate and lead department meetings, ensuring effective communication and alignment on design objectives.
• Guarantee that all design work meets established quality standards and adheres to project specifications and company directives.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration between design teams and other departments such as project management, procurement, and site operations.
• Manage client expectations by delivering designs that align with their requirements, timelines, and budget constraints.
• Delegate tasks effectively to team members, providing clear instructions and subsequently reviewing completed work for quality and accuracy.
• Generate innovative design concepts and solutions, translating them into understandable formats for team members and clients.
• Develop and manage project design budgets, conducting regular analysis to ensure cost-effectiveness and financial control.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to team members, fostering their skill development and motivating them to achieve individual and team goals.
• Organize and conduct training sessions for the design team on new design methodologies, software updates, or evolving business guidelines.
• Support and encourage both internal and external design teams to achieve optimal project outcomes.
• Ensure the timely, high-quality, and clear production of structural drawings, designs, and associated documentation.
• Collaborate with clients, project managers, and consultants to create and manage the design delivery schedule, ensuring milestones are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong leadership, project management acumen, and a deep understanding of the design lifecycle within a construction context, particularly for offsite solutions. The emphasis on budget analysis and team motivation points to a role that balances technical oversight with operational management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: NFQ Level 7 (or equivalent) in Architectural Technology, Civil & Structural Engineering, Architecture, or a related field.
Experience: Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience within Tier 1 contracting, Tier 2 contracting, modular contracting, or design consultancy companies.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Proven ability to lead and manage design teams and processes.
• Technical Software Proficiency: Expert-level proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD for detailed design and drafting.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reporting, analysis, and communication.
• Communication Excellence: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills for client interaction, team leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Creativity & Innovation: Ability to generate novel design ideas and solutions relevant to modular construction.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to reviewing designs, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Organizational Skills: Strong ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, and maintain organized documentation.
• Time Management & Multi-tasking: Demonstrated capacity to manage deadlines effectively and handle multiple responsibilities concurrently.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with BIM (Building Information Modeling) beyond basic Revit proficiency.
• Familiarity with offsite construction methodologies and MMC principles.
• Project management certifications (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2).
• Experience in budget forecasting and cost control within design projects.
• Knowledge of relevant building codes, regulations, and standards in Ireland and the UK.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level and specific software proficiencies are standard for managing design functions in construction. The educational requirement emphasizes a technical foundation, while the soft skills underscore the importance of leadership and client-facing interactions in a management role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrations of successful management of design teams and projects, showcasing leadership and coordination capabilities.
• Examples of high-quality structural drawings and designs produced under your management, highlighting technical accuracy and innovation.
• Case studies or project summaries detailing budget management, cost-saving initiatives, and financial oversight within design processes.
• Evidence of effective delegation and review processes, showcasing your ability to manage team output and ensure quality control.
• Documentation illustrating collaboration with clients and other departments, demonstrating effective stakeholder management.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow diagrams or process maps for design delivery, from concept to final drawings, emphasizing efficiency and quality checkpoints.
• Examples of design standards, checklists, or quality assurance protocols implemented to ensure project compliance.
• Documentation of training materials or sessions developed for design teams, reflecting a commitment to continuous learning and skill development.
• Case studies detailing how innovative design ideas were conceptualized, developed, and implemented within project constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio should not only prove technical competence but also managerial effectiveness. Emphasis should be placed on how the candidate has led teams to achieve design excellence, managed resources (including budget), and successfully navigated complex project requirements within the construction and modular building sectors.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on an estimated 7+ years of experience, a NFQ Level 7 qualification, and the demanding nature of design management in the construction sector in Ireland, a competitive annual salary for a Design Manager in Galway typically ranges from €55,000 to €75,000. This can vary based on the specific experience, qualifications, and the scale of projects managed.

Benefits:

• Sisk Rewards & Recognition Programme: Opportunities for recognition of contributions, performance, and growth.
• Health & Safety: Commitment to a safe working environment, essential in the construction industry.
• Professional Development: Potential for training and support for continuous learning and skill enhancement.
• Collaborative Environment: Working within an innovative and supportive team culture.
• Pension Scheme: Standard employer pension contributions.
• Annual Leave: Generous paid time off allowance.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility depending on project demands. On-site work is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in Ireland. Specific benefits are inferred from the company description and standard practices for established construction firms. The role is confirmed as on-site.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Offsite Manufacturing (Modular/MMC). Vision Built, as a Sisk Company, operates at the forefront of innovative construction solutions, combining traditional building expertise with modern manufacturing techniques.
Company Size: Sisk is a large, established international construction company. Vision Built, as a specialized division, likely operates with a focused team but benefits from the resources and reputation of the parent company. This size implies structured processes and career development opportunities.
Founded: John Sisk & Son was founded in 1859, bringing a legacy of stability and extensive experience. Vision Built, as a more recent initiative, represents the company's commitment to modern construction methods.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will lead a team of graphic designers and other design professionals focused on modular and panelised building solutions.
• This team will likely report to a senior operations or construction director.
• Close collaboration is expected with project managers, site engineers, procurement, and client representatives.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on delivering high-quality modular and panelised building solutions safely and efficiently.
• Integration of innovation with practical construction expertise.
• A structured approach to design delivery, from concept to execution, within a project management framework.
• Commitment to Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and offsite manufacturing principles.

Company Website: https://www.sisk.com/ (Sisk Group) and potentially a dedicated Vision Built site.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sisk's long history and Vision Built's focus on innovation suggest a culture that values both established practices and forward-thinking approaches. The company's size indicates a professional environment with defined operational structures.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level management position within the design and operations function of a construction company. It requires significant technical expertise combined with proven leadership and team management capabilities. The scope involves direct oversight of design output and team performance, impacting project timelines and client satisfaction.
Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a senior leader within the organization, likely a Director of Design, Head of Operations, or a Project Director, depending on the specific structure of Vision Built. They will, in turn, manage a team of designers.
Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is pivotal in ensuring that the design phase of modular construction projects is executed efficiently, accurately, and innovatively. Their effectiveness directly influences project budgets, construction timelines, quality outcomes, and ultimately, client satisfaction and the company's reputation for delivering high-quality offsite solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to a Head of Design, Director of Design, or a senior project management role, overseeing larger teams and more complex projects.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of modular construction, MMC, or sustainable design within the offsite sector.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunity to move into broader operations management roles, leveraging design and project understanding.
• Continuous Learning: Access to training, development programs, and industry conferences to stay abreast of advancements in design technology and construction methods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, reputable construction firm, particularly within the growing field of offsite construction. The emphasis on both technical and managerial skills provides a strong foundation for various leadership opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at an office location in Galway, Ireland, as indicated by the address. This will likely be a professional office environment within a business park, supporting administrative, design, and project coordination functions.
Office Location(s): Unit 4B, Oranmore Business Park, Galway-Co. Galway, H91 Y4A6, Ireland. This location suggests a modern business hub.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will require access to necessary design software and hardware (Revit, AutoCAD, MS Office).
• Opportunities for collaboration will exist within the design team and with other departments physically located in the office.
• A professional office setting conducive to focused work, team meetings, and client interactions.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, on-site position. Standard working hours are expected, likely 40 hours per week, with the understanding that project demands may occasionally require extended hours. The nature of construction project management often involves a degree of flexibility to meet critical deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is standard for management roles that necessitate direct team supervision, client interaction, and coordination with other operational functions. The Galway location places the role within a significant regional hub in Ireland.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter, focusing on experience in construction design management, modular construction, and technical proficiencies.
• First Interview: Typically with an HR representative and/or a hiring manager. This stage assesses your general suitability, communication skills, and alignment with company values. Be prepared to discuss your experience with team management and your understanding of MMC.
• Technical Interview/Assessment: This stage may involve a practical assessment using Revit or AutoCAD, or a detailed discussion about your approach to design challenges, budget management, and quality control. You may be asked to present a portfolio.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior director or executive. This interview focuses on strategic thinking, leadership potential, and long-term fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your experience in modular construction, team leadership, and successful design delivery.
• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design challenges faced, the processes you implemented (especially for quality and budget), and the outcomes achieved.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics wherever possible – e.g., "reduced design time by X%", "managed a design budget of €Y", "led a team of Z designers."
• Showcase Software Skills: Include examples of your work in Revit and AutoCAD, demonstrating complexity and proficiency.
• Emphasize Collaboration: Include examples of how you've worked with other departments and stakeholders to achieve project goals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing difficult team members, resolving design conflicts, or dealing with budget overruns.
• Prepare to articulate your understanding of the benefits and challenges of modular construction and MMC.
• Practice presenting your portfolio concisely and effectively, focusing on key achievements and your management approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be multi-stage, assessing both technical and managerial competencies. A well-prepared portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and leadership capabilities in design management within the construction sector.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D design, and documentation. Expect proficiency in creating complex models, generating drawings, and managing revisions.
• AutoCAD: Standard for 2D drafting and design. Proficiency in creating detailed plans, elevations, and sections.
• MS Office Suite: Crucial for reporting, budget analysis (Excel), presentations (PowerPoint), and general communication (Word, Outlook).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For budget tracking, cost analysis, performance reporting, and data manipulation.
• Project Management Software: Potentially used for tracking design delivery schedules and resource allocation (e.g., MS Project, Primavera, or company-specific tools).
• BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud: For collaborative BIM workflows, document management, and model sharing.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with project management or potentially CRM systems for client feedback is beneficial.
• Automation may be relevant in terms of streamlining design workflows or reporting processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard design software like Revit and AutoCAD is non-negotiable. The ability to leverage these tools for efficient workflow management and data-driven decision-making (especially in Excel for budgeting) will be key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design work that meets rigorous standards.
• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and methods like MMC to improve construction processes.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where different departments work together seamlessly.
• Safety: Prioritizing the health and safety of all team members and in all project aspects.
• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all business dealings and project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands strong collaboration with project managers, site teams, engineers, and client representatives to ensure design intent is translated into reality.
• Open Communication: Encouraging an environment where feedback is shared constructively, and design challenges are addressed proactively.
• Problem-Solving Focus: Working collaboratively to overcome design obstacles and find practical, efficient solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sisk's long-standing reputation suggests a culture that balances traditional construction values with a forward-looking approach to innovation, particularly in areas like MMC. Teamwork and a commitment to quality are likely paramount.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Design and Site Reality: Ensuring design intent is accurately translated and executable in an offsite manufacturing and onsite assembly environment.
• Managing Diverse Teams: Leading and motivating a team with potentially varied skill sets and experience levels.
• Budgetary Constraints: Delivering innovative designs within strict project budgets and timelines.
• Rapid Technological Adoption: Staying current with evolving design software, BIM standards, and MMC technologies.
• Client Communication: Effectively managing expectations and communicating complex design information to non-technical stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM Training: Deepening expertise in BIM workflows, advanced Revit functionalities, and construction visualization.
• MMC Specialization: Gaining in-depth knowledge of various modular and panelised construction techniques, materials, and best practices.
• Leadership Development Programs: Access to Sisk's internal programs for enhancing management and leadership skills.
• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue relevant certifications in project management or specialized design fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to managing design in a fast-paced construction environment, especially with the adoption of MMC. The growth opportunities reflect a commitment to professional development within a large organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a conflict between design requirements and site constraints. How did you resolve it?" (Focus on problem-solving, communication, and understanding of construction realities).
• "How do you ensure the quality and accuracy of design deliverables from your team, especially when working with tight deadlines?" (Highlight process, review mechanisms, and quality control).
• "Walk me through your approach to managing a design budget for a modular construction project." (Demonstrate financial acumen, cost-saving strategies, and budget tracking).
• "How do you motivate and develop your design team members?" (Showcase leadership, mentoring skills, and understanding of team dynamics).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Vision Built and Sisk's approach to modular construction?" (Research their projects, MMC strategies, and company values).
• "How do you envision your role contributing to the company's overall success in the offsite construction market?" (Align your skills with their goals).
• "Describe your experience working in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment." (Provide examples of cross-functional teamwork).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an executive summary of your experience, followed by 2-3 key project case studies.
• Content: For each case study, clearly outline the project scope, your role, challenges, solutions implemented (especially design and budget related), and quantifiable results.
• Visuals: Use high-quality images of drawings, models, or finished projects where appropriate.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a specific timeframe (e.g., 15-20 minutes), leaving ample time for Q&A.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific examples from your experience that align with the responsibilities and challenges of this role will be key. Demonstrating a strong understanding of modular construction and the ability to manage both technical aspects and people effectively will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Sisk careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and portfolio to specifically highlight your experience in modular construction, MMC, team management, budget oversight, and proficiency in Revit/AutoCAD. Prepare 2-3 detailed case studies.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 7+ years of experience, educational qualifications, and key skills, using keywords from the job description such as "Design Management," "Modular Construction," "Revit," "AutoCAD," and "Budget Analysis."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design management philosophy, leadership style, and how you would address the challenges outlined in the job description. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Vision Built and Sisk, focusing on their recent projects, their commitment to MMC, and their company culture to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.