Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager
Company: Sisk
Location: Maccelsfield, UK
Job Type: FULL_TIME
Category: Construction Management / Design Operations
Date Posted: May 19, 2025
Experience Level: 6+ Years (Mid-to-Senior Level)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is critical for overseeing and driving the design process within the Life Science sector for a 5-year framework contract.
• The Design Manager will be responsible for the end-to-end management of design consultants, sub-consultants, and sub-contractors, ensuring timely and accurate delivery of design information.
• A key aspect involves mentoring and guiding Design Coordinators, fostering their professional development and ensuring project-level design execution excellence.
• The position demands a strong understanding of project development from early stages (RIBA Stage 2) through to completion (RIBA Stage 7), managing multiple concurrent projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the responsibilities and required experience place this role firmly within the operations and project execution side of construction, with a strong emphasis on process management, stakeholder coordination, and talent development. The operations focus is on ensuring design information flows effectively to site execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full spectrum of design consultants, sub-consultants, and design sub-contractors to guarantee the correct and punctual provision of all design-related information necessary for site execution.
• Actively manage Design Coordinators, providing mentorship and guidance to enhance their project management capabilities and understanding of design delivery.
• Contribute to and critically review the Employer's Requirements and Contractor's Proposal for compatibility and feasibility, identifying potential design or contractual risks early.
• Provide comprehensive support and oversight to Design Coordinators throughout the construction phase, troubleshooting issues and ensuring adherence to design intent.
• Chair and meticulously minute Design meetings, ensuring clear action points, decisions, and follow-ups that align with the overall project design and delivery schedule.
• Ensure production of design information is in line with project timelines and contractual obligations, proactively managing dependencies and potential delays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on technical design oversight and people management, typical of a senior operations role in construction. The emphasis on mentoring Design Coordinators indicates a need for strong leadership and development skills within the operations team.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree in a construction-related discipline (e.g., Civil Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management).

Experience:

• Minimum of six years of progressive experience within the construction industry.
• Proven track record in managing project development lifecycle from RIBA Stage 2 through to RIBA Stage 7.
• Experience in concurrently managing multiple projects.
• Significant experience in fit-out and remodelling works, specifically within Pharmaceutical projects.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in overseeing the entire design process from inception to completion.
• Project Development Lifecycle: Deep understanding of RIBA stages and their implications for design delivery.
• Pharmaceutical Project Experience: Specific knowledge of fit-out and remodelling within this highly regulated sector.
• NEC Contracts Knowledge: Familiarity with the contractual framework and its impact on design and project delivery.
• Architectural or MEP Design Background: A foundational understanding from either discipline to effectively manage consultants.
• Life Science/Manufacturing/Assembly Process Knowledge: Understanding of the operational requirements of these environments.
• Microsoft Office Suite Proficiency: Competency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for reporting, analysis, and communication.
• View Point for Projects (4Projects) Expertise: Demonstrated ability to use this project management software for document control and collaboration.
• Mentoring & Leadership: Ability to guide and develop junior team members (Design Coordinators).
• Design Coordination Oversight: Experience in managing and reviewing the work of Design Coordinators.
• Meeting Facilitation: Skill in chairing and minuting technical meetings effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with other project management or BIM software relevant to modern construction.
• Familiarity with Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) principles in pharmaceutical settings.
• Experience in framework agreements and managing multiple small to medium-sized works.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level (6+ years) and specific project types (Pharmaceutical) indicate a need for a candidate with a solid foundation in construction operations and a specialized understanding of complex environments. The inclusion of specific software like View Point for Projects is a key technical requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Lifecycle Documentation: Examples showcasing management of design from RIBA Stage 2 through to Stage 7, demonstrating process control and adherence to project phases.
• Case Studies of Fit-Out/Remodelling Projects: Detailed accounts of pharmaceutical or similar life science projects, highlighting challenges, design solutions, and successful execution.
• Contractual Adherence Evidence: Demonstrations of managing projects under NEC Contracts, including how design aspects were handled within the contractual framework.
• System Implementation & Workflow Efficiency: Examples of how design information was managed and disseminated using tools like View Point for Projects to ensure efficient site execution.
• Metrics & ROI Demonstration: Evidence of how design management contributed to project timelines, budget adherence, and quality outcomes, ideally with quantifiable results.

Process Documentation:

• Design Development Workflows: Documentation illustrating how design information is initiated, developed, reviewed, approved, and issued for construction.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Processes: Evidence of established processes for seamless collaboration between design teams, site teams, clients, and other stakeholders.
• Risk Management & Mitigation: Examples of processes for identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks throughout the project lifecycle.
• Quality Assurance & Control: Documentation of processes used to ensure design information meets required quality standards and specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate a structured approach to design management, process control, and problem-solving within the specified project types and contractual frameworks. Evidence of managing multiple projects simultaneously and mentoring capabilities will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range of £55,000 - £75,000 per annum, depending on experience and specific qualifications.

Benefits:

• Company Pension Scheme: Contribution towards retirement savings.
• Life Assurance: Financial protection for dependents.
• Health and Wellbeing Programs: Access to initiatives promoting employee health.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and career advancement.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Potential for Bonuses: Performance-related incentives may be available.
• Travel Expenses: Reimbursement for business travel as required.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.
• The role is designated as "On-site," requiring full-time presence at the Maccelsfield location.
• Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines or attend critical meetings outside standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 6+ years of experience in the UK construction sector, specifically within specialized fields like life sciences and pharmaceutical projects. The on-site nature of the role is a key factor, and benefits will be typical for a large, established construction firm.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction. John Sisk & Son operates as a family-owned international construction company with a strong reputation for delivering projects with trust, certainty, and value. Company Size: Large (John Sisk & Son is a significant international player). This implies robust processes, established career paths, and a diverse workforce. Founded: John Sisk & Son has a long history, founded in 1859. This heritage suggests a stable, experienced organization with deep industry knowledge and a commitment to long-term growth and employee development.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will report into a project team, likely led by a Project Director or Framework Manager.
• They will directly manage Design Coordinators, forming a core part of the project's technical delivery team.
• Close collaboration is expected with site operations teams, commercial teams, procurement, and client representatives.
• The "Life Science team" suggests a specialized division within Sisk, focusing on complex projects within this sector.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using project data, performance metrics, and client feedback to inform design and execution strategies.
• Process Optimization: A continuous drive to refine workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance the certainty of project delivery.
• Collaboration & Communication: A strong belief in open communication and collaborative problem-solving across all project stakeholders.
• Safety & Quality Focus: An unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety and construction quality.

Company Website: https://www.sisk.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Sisk's long history and family ownership suggest a culture that values stability, long-term relationships, and employee loyalty. The emphasis on "trust, certainty, and value" translates into a need for reliable, process-driven operations professionals. The specific mention of the "Life Science team" indicates a specialized focus where operational excellence is paramount.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Mid-to-Senior level within the operations and project delivery function. It requires significant technical expertise and management experience, with a focus on design process oversight rather than direct site labor management.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports to Project Director / Framework Manager.
• Manages Design Coordinators.
• Works closely with Site Managers, Project Managers, Commercial Managers, and client-side design teams.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager's role is crucial in ensuring that the design information provided is accurate, compliant, and constructible, directly impacting project timelines, budget adherence, quality, and overall client satisfaction within the Life Science framework.
• Effective design management minimizes costly on-site errors, rework, and delays, thereby directly contributing to the profitability and success of the projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Management: Progression to managing design for larger, more complex frameworks or individual flagship projects.
• Project Management: Transition into a full Project Manager role, taking responsibility for broader project delivery aspects.
• Operations Leadership: Moving into senior operational roles such as Head of Design, Construction Director, or similar leadership positions within Sisk.
• Specialization: Deepening expertise within the Life Science sector, becoming a go-to expert for complex pharmaceutical or biotech projects.
• Professional Development: Access to Sisk's internal training programs, external courses, and potential for further qualifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear pathway for career progression within a large, established construction firm. The specialization in Life Sciences provides a niche that is in high demand, offering opportunities for deep expertise and advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, working within the project environment. This implies a dynamic setting, potentially involving site visits and close proximity to ongoing construction activities. The role is described as an "On-site role for the DM working along side the Sisk framework team and client framework team."

Office Location(s): Maccelsfield, UK (Charter Way, SK102NA). Specific site locations will vary depending on the projects within the 5-year framework.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires extensive interaction with various Sisk team members and client representatives, fostering a collaborative, solutions-oriented workspace.
• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary project management software (e.g., View Point for Projects), communication tools, and standard office facilities will be provided.
• Team Interaction: Daily interaction with Design Coordinators, site teams, and project leadership is expected, creating a highly integrated and communicative work setting.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours/week).
• The nature of construction projects may necessitate occasional flexibility to attend critical meetings, site inspections, or address urgent design issues, particularly during peak project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-site" designation is key. This isn't a remote or hybrid role, meaning candidates must be comfortable working directly within the project's operational hub, which could include site offices. The environment will be fast-paced and demanding, requiring adaptability.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess minimum qualifications and experience.
• Technical Interview: Focused discussion on design management experience, project development lifecycle, NEC contracts, pharmaceutical project specifics, and software proficiency. This stage will likely involve behavioral questions related to managing teams and resolving design conflicts.
• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present selected projects from their portfolio, detailing their role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes, with a specific focus on design coordination and delivery processes.
• Stakeholder/Team Interview: Meeting with potential colleagues or senior management to assess cultural fit, communication style, and leadership potential.
• Final Offer: Based on successful completion of all interview stages.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Relevant Projects: Prioritize pharmaceutical or life science fit-out/remodelling projects. Showcase your experience managing multiple concurrent projects.
• Demonstrate Process: Clearly articulate your approach to design management, from inception (RIBA Stage 2) through to completion (Stage 7). Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your design management on project success (e.g., reduction in RFIs, on-time delivery, budget savings related to design efficiency).
• Showcase NEC Contract Experience: Detail how you've managed design processes within NEC contractual frameworks, including communication, change management, and dispute resolution.
• Detail Mentorship Experience: Provide examples of how you have mentored and developed junior design professionals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to design conflicts, delays, or issues with design consultants/sub-contractors.
• Practice articulating your problem-solving approach, emphasizing collaboration, adherence to process, and effective communication.
• Think about how you would manage a situation where design information is not being delivered on time or to the required standard.
• Be ready to discuss your understanding of the Life Science sector's unique design and operational requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on NEC contracts, pharmaceutical projects, and the RIBA stages suggests interviewers will probe deeply into technical knowledge and practical application. A well-structured portfolio that directly addresses these requirements will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• View Point for Projects (4Projects): Essential for document control, collaboration, and managing project information flow. Proficiency is a stated requirement.
• Microsoft Office Suite:
  • Word: For official documentation, reports, and correspondence.
  • Excel: For data analysis, tracking, scheduling, and financial tracking related to design elements.
  • PowerPoint: For presentations, project updates, and internal training.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated, expect to use project management software features for reporting on design progress, RFI logs, and potential delays.
• Ad-hoc reporting may be required using Excel based on data extracted from project systems.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable in the core sense of a Sales or Marketing CRM. However, project management software like 4Projects serves as a system of record for design-related activities and communication, acting as a form of project-specific "relationship/information management."
• Automation would likely refer to efficient workflow processes within 4Projects or standardizing templates for documentation rather than complex software automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in View Point for Projects (4Projects) is a non-negotiable technical requirement. The broader technology stack is standard for construction management, focusing on document control and communication.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Trust: Operating with honesty and transparency in all dealings with team members, clients, and subcontractors.
• Certainty and Value: A commitment to delivering projects predictably and efficiently, providing tangible value to clients.
• Safety First: An unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals on site.
• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards in all aspects of work, from design coordination to project execution.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication and mutual support are paramount.
• Continuous Improvement: A mindset focused on learning from experiences and refining processes to enhance future project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and Engaged: Actively participating in design meetings, site discussions, and cross-functional team collaborations.
• Solution-Oriented: Focusing on identifying and implementing practical solutions to design and construction challenges.
• Respectful Communication: Engaging with all stakeholders, from junior coordinators to senior clients, with professionalism and respect.
• Knowledge Sharing: Willingness to share expertise, mentor colleagues, and contribute to a learning environment within the operations team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Sisk's stated values of "trust, certainty, and value" are deeply ingrained. Professionals in this role must embody these principles, demonstrating reliability, efficiency, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes. The emphasis on "great people" suggests a supportive team environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Concurrent Projects: The framework involves multiple small to medium works, requiring exceptional organizational skills and the ability to prioritize effectively across various project demands.
• Complex Pharmaceutical Design Requirements: Navigating the stringent regulations, specialized equipment needs, and high-performance standards of pharmaceutical facilities.
• Coordination Across Diverse Teams: Effectively managing and coordinating design consultants, sub-contractors, and internal project teams with potentially competing priorities.
• Ensuring Design Information Accuracy and Timeliness: The critical nature of design information for site execution means any delays or errors can have significant consequences.
• Mentoring and Developing Junior Staff: Balancing managerial duties with the need to develop and support Design Coordinators.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Sector Knowledge: Gaining deep expertise in the Life Science and pharmaceutical construction sector.
• Advanced Project Management: Developing skills in managing complex frameworks and multiple concurrent projects.
• Leadership Development: Enhancing mentoring, team management, and stakeholder communication skills through hands-on experience and potential training.
• Industry Best Practices: Staying abreast of evolving design technologies, construction methodologies, and regulatory requirements within the sector.
• Internal Training Programs: Access to Sisk's structured learning and development initiatives for career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant but also present excellent opportunities for professional growth, particularly in specialized construction sectors and multi-project management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Management Approach: "Describe your process for managing design consultants and sub-contractors from project inception to completion, particularly on pharmaceutical fit-out projects." Focus on your structured approach, risk mitigation, and quality control.
• NEC Contract Application: "How have you applied NEC contract principles to manage design information and resolve disputes related to design deliverables?" Be ready with specific examples.
• Team Leadership & Mentoring: "Describe a time you mentored a junior team member who was struggling with their responsibilities. What was the outcome?" Highlight your coaching style and ability to develop talent.
• Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a complex design coordination issue you faced on a past project. How did you identify the root cause, and what steps did you take to resolve it?" Emphasize collaboration and data-driven solutions.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Sisk and our commitment to 'trust, certainty, and value'?" Show you've researched the company's core principles.
• "How do you ensure a culture of safety and quality within your design management responsibilities?" Link your actions to Sisk's values.
• "Describe your ideal working environment and how you contribute to a collaborative team culture." Align your response with Sisk's emphasis on "great people."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the context, your specific role, key challenges, design solutions implemented, your management approach (especially for NEC contracts and pharmaceutical specifics), and the quantifiable results achieved.
• Focus on Process: Demonstrate not just the final outcome but the systematic approach you took to manage the design process, document information, and coordinate stakeholders.
• Highlight Mentorship: Include examples of how you guided Design Coordinators or other team members within your portfolio projects.
• Visual Aids: Use clear visuals (diagrams, photos if appropriate, charts) to illustrate complex points or project scope.
• Be Concise and Impactful: Tailor your presentation to the likely interview duration, focusing on the most relevant and impressive aspects of your experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a candidate who not only understands the technical aspects of design management but also possesses strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills, all within the context of Sisk's operational philosophy and the specific demands of the Life Science sector.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Sisk careers portal.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your experience in pharmaceutical fit-out/remodelling, NEC contract management, and multi-project development. Prepare concise summaries focusing on process, challenges, and outcomes.
• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 6+ years of construction industry experience, specific accomplishments in design management, and proficiency in required software (View Point for Projects). Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare for Technical Questions: Review your knowledge of RIBA stages, NEC contracts, and the unique requirements of life science facilities. Practice articulating your problem-solving and leadership approaches.
• Research Sisk: Understand the company's history, values, and recent projects, particularly within the Life Science sector, to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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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