Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: United Infrastructure

Location: Nottingham, Midlands, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations Management / Design Coordination

Date Posted: 2026-03-31

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and coordinate the detailed design process for critical infrastructure projects, ensuring compliance with United Infrastructure's standards and relevant regulations.

• Manage the technical design coordination of schemes, focusing on cost-effectiveness, buildability, and timely delivery to meet company targets and client programs.

• Lead the review of consultant and subcontractor designs, driving high standards and ensuring all deliverables align with project objectives.

• Act as a key liaison for design and technical matters during construction, managing information flow and resolving RFIs promptly.

• Ensure comprehensive documentation, including H&S files and O&M manuals, is compiled and managed throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Design Manager, suggesting a mid-to-senior level responsibility within the design and construction lifecycle. The emphasis on coordinating consultants, subcontractors, and ensuring compliance points towards a crucial operational role in project execution, bridging the gap between design conception and on-site delivery. This aligns with revenue operations by ensuring projects are designed efficiently and cost-effectively, directly impacting project profitability and client satisfaction.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Coordinate technical and design processes, design teams, and subcontractors throughout detail design, procurement, and construction phases, closely monitoring progress to ensure on-time and within-budget delivery.

• Drive the technical design coordination of schemes, ensuring alignment with agreed programmes, company targets, and maximizing revenue through quality, cost-effectiveness, and buildability of the design.

• Assist the Design Manager in reviewing consultant and subcontractor detail design drawings, identifying potential buildability and technical issues early.

• Manage the flow of design information to Commercial, Operations, and Client teams, ensuring clear and timely communication.

• Oversee the processing of information through workflows on the document management system, ensuring accurate filing and adherence to company protocols.

• Monitor and obtain all critical certificates and documentation required for project completion and handover.

• Collateralize required information and liaise with Planning Authorities and Building Control for submissions and obtaining necessary approvals.

• Manage the change control process for variations, including drawing revisions, construction programmes, and costs, ensuring proper documentation and approval.

• Conduct site visits as required to monitor work execution against benchmarks and design specifications.

• Manage, investigate, and respond promptly to Requests for Information (RFIs) from site teams and subcontractors, ensuring complete close-out.

• Compile Health & Safety files and Operations & Maintenance (O&M) manuals, ensuring all required documentation is accurate and complete.

• Ensure designs comply with Company's standards and promote designs that respect budgetary constraints.

• Update and coordinate monthly design schedules, and review/coordinate design and technical issues with Commercial and Operations teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a need for strong process management and stakeholder coordination, core functions within operations. The emphasis on "maximum revenue is generated by the quality, cost effectiveness and buildability of the design" directly links this design role to revenue generation and cost control, a key focus for operations professionals.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum relevant Level 4 qualification (e.g., HNC/NVQ4) in a relevant field.

Experience:

• Proven track record of design coordination within the construction industry.

• Relevant Design and Build experience.

• Experience with CAD (AutoCAD or Revit) is desirable.

• Knowledge and understanding of BIM is desirable.

• Experience with Building Safety Act relevant works and retrofit works is desirable.

• Up-to-date relevant construction industry knowledge, including legislation and procedures.

Required Skills:

• Thorough and proactive management style.

• Ability to prioritize, motivate, and communicate effectively to influence others and meet objectives.

• Analytical approach to work with a keen eye for detail.

• Strong leadership skills: decisive, flexible, good time management, organized, effective under pressure, and able to meet strict deadlines.

• Ability to review drawings and identify buildability and technical issues.

• Proficient in project and process management.

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.

• Expertise in design delivery and assessing risks.

• Effective communication with all levels of management and project teams, both internal and external.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Passionate about construction and customer satisfaction, with a focus on high standards and excellence.

• Proven track record of design requirements for procurement and construction purposes.

• In-depth knowledge of contractual requirements, section agreements, and utility application processes.

• Tenacious and driven.

• Strong practical knowledge of construction work types, methods, and design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications blend technical design knowledge with essential operational management skills such as project management, problem-solving, and communication. The emphasis on "relevant Level 4 qualification" alongside "proven track record" suggests a role that values practical experience as much as formal education, common in operational roles where hands-on execution is critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrated experience in coordinating complex design processes from concept to construction.

• Case studies showcasing successful technical design coordination, including challenges and resolutions.

• Examples of managing design deliverables against program and budget constraints.

• Documentation illustrating involvement in the change control process for design variations.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase understanding of design methodologies and sequencing processes within construction projects.

• Provide examples of workflow management through document management systems.

• Illustrate experience in compiling and managing H&S files and O&M manuals.

• Demonstrate knowledge of regulatory compliance and approval processes with planning authorities and building control.

• Include examples of RFI management and resolution processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of design coordination, project management, and stakeholder communication is essential for this role. Candidates should be prepared to showcase how they have managed design processes, mitigated risks, and ensured compliance, directly linking their work to project success and efficiency.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on regional salary research for a Design Manager role with 5-10 years of experience in the UK construction/infrastructure sector, and considering the responsibilities outlined, an estimated salary range would be between £45,000 and £65,000 per annum. This range is influenced by the specific company's financial health, the complexity of projects, and the candidate's precise experience and qualifications.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary with benefits recognizing expertise.

• Clear career progression opportunities within a fast-growing company.

• Opportunity to play a key role in revitalizing communities and contributing to sustainable infrastructure.

• Potential for professional development and training.

Working Hours:

• Full-time role, typically 40 hours per week.

• The role is on-site, requiring consistent presence at project locations or the company's Nottingham office.

• Occasional flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend essential site meetings or client engagements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on UK-specific data for similar roles, factoring in the "Mid-Senior Level" experience indicated and the "On-site" work arrangement. The benefits highlight career growth and impact, appealing to professionals seeking advancement and meaningful work, which are key considerations for operations roles focused on long-term contribution.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Utility and Social Infrastructure Development. United Infrastructure operates at the intersection of essential services, designing, building, and maintaining critical networks for water, energy, and telecoms, alongside refurbishing and retrofitting homes and communities. This dual focus positions the company as a key player in both essential services provision and urban regeneration.

Company Size: United Infrastructure is described as a "dynamic and rapidly expanding business." While a specific headcount isn't provided, this suggests a company that is growing, likely with a significant number of employees and projects, offering opportunities for career advancement and involvement in diverse initiatives.

Founded: The founding date is not specified, but the description implies a company with established operations in both Utility and Social Infrastructure sectors. This suggests a company with a solid foundation and a clear strategic direction for growth and development.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will likely be part of a broader Project Management or Engineering department.

• The role involves significant interaction with consultant teams, subcontractors, Commercial, and Operations teams, indicating a collaborative, cross-functional operational structure.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on delivering "innovative solutions to the complex challenges our clients face."

• Focus on designing for "quality, cost effectiveness and buildability."

• Commitment to complying with "Company's standards," "current regulations," and promoting "design that respects budgetary constraints."

• Integration of "Health, safety and environmental policy" into all operations.

Company Website: uig.net (derived from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's dual focus on utility and social infrastructure creates a unique operational environment. The emphasis on innovation, cost-effectiveness, and compliance suggests a company culture that values efficiency, technical excellence, and responsible project execution, all critical for successful operations.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Design Manager role sits at a mid-to-senior level, requiring significant experience in design coordination and project execution within the construction and infrastructure sectors. It demands a blend of technical understanding and managerial capability, acting as a bridge between conceptual design and site implementation.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to a senior Design Manager, indicating a clear line of command within the design department. The Design Manager will also work closely with Commercial and Operations teams, highlighting a collaborative reporting dynamic that influences project outcomes.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is crucial for ensuring that projects are designed to be cost-effective, buildable, and compliant with all regulations. This directly impacts project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's ability to deliver on its strategic objectives for infrastructure development and community revitalization. Efficient design processes minimize costly rework and delays, directly contributing to revenue generation and operational efficiency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in project management, design coordination, and construction methodologies, potentially leading to senior Design Manager or Project Director roles.

• Leadership Development: Gain experience in managing teams of consultants and subcontractors, honing leadership and stakeholder management skills essential for senior operations positions.

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific infrastructure sectors (Utility or Social Infrastructure) or specialized areas like BIM, Building Safety Act compliance, or retrofit works, creating niche career paths.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Broaden understanding of commercial, operational, and client-facing aspects of infrastructure projects, preparing for broader operational leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are framed within an operations context, emphasizing skill development, leadership, and cross-functional exposure. This aligns with the career progression typically sought by operations professionals aiming for leadership roles that encompass broader business impact.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, requiring regular presence at project locations. This implies a dynamic work environment that may involve site offices, client premises, and potentially a headquarters office in Nottingham for administrative and coordination tasks.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Nottingham, Midlands, United Kingdom. However, the nature of infrastructure projects means the Design Manager will likely be required to travel to various project sites across the UK as needed.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close collaboration with internal teams (Commercial, Operations) and external stakeholders (consultants, subcontractors, authorities), fostering a highly interactive work setting.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to document management systems, potentially BIM software (Revit, AutoCAD), and project management tools will be crucial for daily operations.

• Team Interaction: Frequent meetings, site visits, and information exchange sessions will be integral to the daily workflow, promoting strong team cohesion and problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected.

• The on-site nature of the role means working hours may need to be flexible to accommodate site requirements, project milestones, and urgent client or subcontractor requests. Regular site meetings may occur outside of standard office hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is a key characteristic of many roles in the infrastructure and construction operations sector. The emphasis on collaboration and access to specific operational tools highlights the practical, hands-on nature of the work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's core responsibilities.

• First Interview: Typically with the hiring manager or a senior member of the design/operations team. Focus on behavioral questions, technical experience, and understanding of design coordination processes.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio of past work, discuss specific design challenges they've overcome, or complete a practical exercise related to design coordination or problem-solving.

• Final Interview: May involve senior management, focusing on cultural fit, strategic thinking, and long-term career aspirations within United Infrastructure.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Design Coordination: Showcase projects where you successfully managed multiple stakeholders (consultants, subcontractors) to achieve coordinated design outcomes.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "Reduced design-related RFIs by 20%," or "Ensured on-time design submission for a £X million project."

• Detail Process Management: Clearly explain your approach to managing design workflows, document control, and change management.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Present case studies of technical or buildability issues encountered and how you effectively resolved them.

• Emphasize Regulatory Compliance: Illustrate your understanding and application of relevant UK construction legislation and standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing design risks and ensuring compliance with health & safety regulations.

• Practice articulating complex design issues and their resolutions concisely.

• Research United Infrastructure's recent projects and company values to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Think about how your role contributes to the company's overall operational efficiency and revenue generation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only technical competence but also operational capabilities like problem-solving, stakeholder management, and process adherence, crucial for a Design Manager role within an infrastructure company.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Document Management Systems: Proficiency in managing and processing information through workflows on systems like Aconex, Procore, or similar platforms.

• Design Software: Experience with CAD software such as AutoCAD is essential. Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) tools like Revit is highly desirable, indicating a forward-thinking approach to design and construction.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, or Monday.com for scheduling, tracking progress, and managing tasks.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Ability to interpret and utilize design-related data for reporting progress, identifying risks, and informing decisions.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data feeds into commercial and operational systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation within document management systems to streamline information exchange.

• Experience with integration tools could be advantageous for understanding how design impacts broader project systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools common in construction operations, focusing on document control, design software, and project management. Proficiency in these areas is critical for efficient workflow management and compliance.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Efficiency & Cost-Effectiveness: A core value is ensuring designs are not only technically sound but also deliver maximum revenue through cost-effectiveness and buildability, aligning with operational efficiency goals.

• Compliance & Safety: Strict adherence to Company standards, current regulations, and health, safety, and environmental policies is paramount, reflecting a responsible and risk-aware operational culture.

• Collaboration & Communication: Fostering strong working relationships with consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams is essential for seamless design coordination and project execution.

• Proactive Management: A proactive management style is valued, encouraging initiative in problem-solving and driving objectives to meet strict deadlines.

• Excellence & Quality: A focus on high standards and customer satisfaction, particularly in revitalizing communities and delivering sustainable infrastructure.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires deep collaboration with Commercial and Operations teams, ensuring design aligns with project financials and execution capabilities.

• Process Review & Feedback: An open approach to reviewing designs and providing constructive feedback to consultants and subcontractors is expected.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices in design, buildability, and problem-solving across project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values highlight a blend of technical rigor, operational efficiency, and collaborative teamwork, which are hallmarks of successful teams in the infrastructure and construction sectors. This emphasis on shared values is crucial for team cohesion and project success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design & Commercial Demands: Effectively coordinating designs that meet technical requirements while adhering to strict budgetary constraints and maximizing revenue.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Navigating diverse expectations and communication styles among consultants, subcontractors, internal teams, and regulatory bodies.

• Ensuring Technical Accuracy & Compliance: Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of evolving construction legislation, company standards, and technical best practices to prevent design errors and ensure compliance.

• Adapting to Project Changes: Effectively managing the change control process for variations in drawings, programs, and costs, ensuring minimal disruption to project timelines and budgets.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in project management methodologies, risk assessment, and contract administration specific to infrastructure projects.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue relevant certifications such as those from CIOB, CIAT, RICS, or specialized BIM/CAD certifications.

• Leadership Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from senior Design Managers and operational leaders, developing strategic thinking and team leadership capabilities.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Gain experience across both Utility and Social Infrastructure sectors, broadening understanding of different project types, challenges, and operational approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for operational roles in complex project environments, requiring adaptability, strong problem-solving, and continuous learning. The growth opportunities are geared towards enhancing these capabilities and fostering career progression within the operations domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to coordinate a complex design with multiple consultants and subcontractors. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure a cohesive and compliant design?" (Focus on process, stakeholder management, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you ensure designs are not only technically sound but also cost-effective and buildable, contributing to maximum revenue for the company?" (Focus on operational efficiency, cost control, and revenue impact.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about United Infrastructure's work in both Utility and Social Infrastructure?" (Demonstrate genuine interest and research.)

• "How do you approach ensuring compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations within the design process?" (Highlight commitment to safety and compliance.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by key responsibility areas (e.g., Design Coordination, Risk Management, Stakeholder Liaison).

• Storytelling: For each project, clearly articulate the objective, your role, the challenges faced, the actions you took, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, time efficiency, compliance achieved).

• Metrics: Quantify your achievements wherever possible. Use data to support your claims about efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and successful delivery.

• Visuals: Include diagrams, drawings, or screenshots where appropriate to illustrate design coordination, workflow processes, or problem resolutions.

• Relevance: Tailor your portfolio presentation to highlight experience most relevant to United Infrastructure's projects and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating a solid understanding of design coordination principles, operational efficiency, and strong stakeholder management skills, all within the context of infrastructure projects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in design coordination, project management, technical design, and stakeholder liaison within the construction/infrastructure sector. Use keywords from the job description such as "Design Coordination," "Technical Design," "Project Management," "Regulations," and "Subcontractors." Quantify achievements with specific metrics if possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a portfolio that showcases your ability to manage complex design processes, coordinate multiple parties, and ensure compliance. Focus on case studies demonstrating problem-solving, cost-effectiveness, and timely delivery.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your experience with specific design coordination challenges, your approach to managing design variations, and how you ensure designs meet both technical and commercial requirements. Practice articulating your contributions to project success and operational efficiency.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with United Infrastructure's company values, recent projects, and its dual focus on Utility and Social Infrastructure. Understand their commitment to innovation and community impact.

⚠️ 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.