Design Manager, PMD (Project Management & Delivery)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, PMD (Project Management & Delivery)

Company: Ramboll

Location: Copenhagen, Capital Region of Denmark, Denmark

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Project Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-03-13

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design efforts for major, complex, and high-visibility infrastructure projects globally, with significant decision authority over design approach, governance, requirements, and interface management.

• Drive the establishment and continuous improvement of the new global Project Management & Delivery (PMD) department, setting standards for delivery excellence, robust governance, and common ways of working.

• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional development within multidisciplinary, international teams.

• Contribute strategically to major project pursuits and proposals, including bid strategy, budgeting, resource planning, risk assessment, and client engagement.

• Actively shape the PMD department's direction, culture, and capabilities, positioning Ramboll as a trusted advisor and strategic enabler for successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a newly established global department (PMD) focused on enhancing project delivery excellence for large-scale infrastructure. The Design Manager's responsibilities extend beyond technical design leadership to actively contribute to departmental strategy and operational framework development, indicating a significant impact on Ramboll's global project execution methodology. The emphasis on "mega and large-scale infrastructure projects" suggests a need for experience in managing complex stakeholder environments and large budgets.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define and execute the design approach for mega and large-scale infrastructure projects, ensuring alignment with strategic project goals, client requirements, and industry best practices.

• Establish and maintain robust design governance frameworks, ensuring all design decisions are meticulously documented and adhere strictly to regulatory and client specifications.

• Proactively control and manage project requirements and interfaces, ensuring seamless integration and consistency across all disciplines and project lifecycle stages.

• Track design decisions, assumptions, and implement rigorous change management processes to effectively handle modifications and updates, minimizing project disruption.

• Manage detailed design schedules, meticulously aligning all design activities with overarching project timelines and critical milestones.

• Champion and promote the adoption of digital delivery tools and methodologies to enhance client outcomes and prepare for future project innovations.

• Cultivate a collaborative environment within multidisciplinary teams, fostering a culture of shared accountability, continuous learning, and professional growth.

• Build and nurture strong, enduring relationships with clients, partners, and key stakeholders, reinforcing Ramboll's position as a preferred partner for complex infrastructure solutions.

• Contribute significantly to major project pursuits and proposals, encompassing bid strategy formulation, accurate budgeting, effective resource planning, thorough risk assessment, and strategic client engagement.

• Collaborate effectively with international colleagues on cross-border projects, ensuring inclusive teamwork and efficient knowledge sharing across diverse global teams.

• Actively participate in the continuous development of PMD capabilities, refining standards, and enhancing established ways of working to maximize client value delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership and strategic operational contribution. Emphasis on "robust design governance," "controlling project requirements and interfaces," and "change management processes" points to a need for strong operational rigor and process implementation skills beyond traditional design management. The expectation to "champion and promote the adoption of digital delivery" indicates a forward-looking role requiring an understanding of modern project execution technologies.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• An advanced degree in Engineering (specifically Civil Engineering with a focus on bridges, tunnels, metro, marine, road, or rail) or an equivalent academic background.

Experience:

• Proven track record of leading design efforts for large-scale, complex infrastructure projects, with direct accountability for delivery outcomes.

• Extensive experience in establishing and managing comprehensive design governance structures.

• Demonstrated success in controlling intricate project requirements and managing complex cross-disciplinary interfaces.

Required Skills:

• Advanced degree in a relevant engineering discipline or equivalent project delivery experience.

• Deep understanding of regulatory, technical, and operational challenges inherent in major infrastructure projects.

• Expertise in cross-disciplinary coordination and modern design and delivery frameworks.

• Proven ability to establish and manage design governance frameworks.

• Strong proficiency in controlling project requirements and managing complex interfaces.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively.

• Professional fluency in English, both written and verbal.

• Strategic mindset with strong business acumen, enabling confident decision-making in complex situations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with digital delivery tools and methodologies in infrastructure projects.

• Demonstrated ability to foster and lead high-performing, collaborative teams.

• Experience working in an international, cross-border project environment.

• Strong understanding of risk assessment and mitigation strategies within design delivery.

• Leadership qualities that inspire innovation and drive delivery excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for an "advanced degree in engineering" coupled with "equivalent project delivery experience" suggests flexibility for candidates with extensive practical experience. The emphasis on "large-scale, complex infrastructure projects" and "accountability for delivery outcomes" strongly indicates a need for candidates with a proven operational track record in managing high-stakes projects, rather than purely theoretical design expertise. The "preferred skills" hint at a desire for leaders who can champion new methodologies and foster a progressive team environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies showcasing leadership in the design of large-scale, complex infrastructure projects.

• Documented evidence of establishing and managing robust design governance frameworks, including process documentation and implementation examples.

• Examples of successful requirements management and interface control strategies for intricate projects.

• Demonstrations of how digital delivery tools and methodologies were leveraged to improve project outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflows detailing the methodology for defining and executing design approaches on major projects.

• Frameworks for design governance, including decision-making protocols and approval processes.

• Methodologies for requirements elicitation, documentation, and validation.

• Processes for interface management, ensuring integration across disciplines and stakeholders.

• Strategies for tracking design decisions, assumptions, and implementing effective change control.

• Examples of detailed design schedule management and milestone tracking.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, the depth of responsibilities implies a strong need for candidates to be prepared to showcase their experience through detailed examples. The emphasis on governance, requirements, interfaces, and digital delivery suggests that candidates should have well-defined processes they can articulate and demonstrate. This is crucial for a role that involves setting standards for a new global department.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Commitment to professional development and continuous learning opportunities.

• Leadership guided by established company principles, fostering a supportive management environment.

• Inclusive and welcoming company culture that values individual uniqueness.

• Opportunities for inspiration through colleagues, diverse clients, and significant projects.

• Benefits associated with working for a foundation-owned company, suggesting long-term stability and a focus on societal impact.

• Flexibility in work-life balance, as part of a positive and inclusive approach to work.

• Health and wellness programs.

• Pension scheme.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 37-40 hours per week, with flexibility offered as part of Ramboll's inclusive approach to work. Occasional overtime may be required to meet project deadlines and critical milestones, especially during proposal phases or key project delivery stages.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is an estimate based on similar roles in Copenhagen, Denmark, considering the specified experience level (10+ years) and the nature of the role (Design Manager for mega infrastructure projects). The "foundation-owned company" aspect is highlighted as a potential benefit, implying stability and a values-driven approach. The mention of "flexibility" in working hours is noted, but the core role in project delivery will likely necessitate adherence to project timelines.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Consultancy. Ramboll operates globally, focusing on sustainable change and delivering innovative solutions across various sectors including Buildings, Transport, Water, Environment & Health, Energy, Management Consulting, and Architecture & Landscape.

Company Size: Over 18,000 employees globally, operating across 35 countries. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources and a broad international reach, offering diverse opportunities for collaboration and professional growth.

Founded: Ramboll was founded in Denmark and is a foundation-owned company. This heritage suggests a long-term perspective, a commitment to societal impact, and a stable corporate structure.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will be part of the new global Project Management & Delivery (PMD) department.

• This department comprises a diverse range of specialists including project directors, project managers, commercial managers, requirements managers, planners, interface managers, document controllers, and digital delivery specialists.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Ramboll emphasizes using data to drive insights and inform decision-making for sustainable solutions.

• Workflow Planning & Optimization: The establishment of the PMD department itself signifies a strategic focus on optimizing project delivery workflows and governance.

• Automation & Efficiency: A commitment to digital delivery and continuous improvement suggests an embrace of automation and efficiency-driven practices in project execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is anchored in responsibility, sustainability, and a long-term vision due to its foundation ownership. The creation of the PMD department indicates a strategic investment in operational excellence and standardization across global projects. The collaborative and international nature of the work is a key aspect of the company's operational methodology.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within project delivery operations, specifically focused on the design phase of large-scale infrastructure projects. It is a pivotal role in a new strategic department, offering the opportunity to influence and shape global delivery standards. The "Design Manager" title, coupled with the scope of responsibilities, places this position at a level demanding significant expertise, strategic thinking, and leadership capabilities, often considered an advanced management or principal-level role within operations.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report into the PMD department leadership, likely a Project Director or Head of PMD. They will work in close collaboration with various service lines and functional teams (project managers, commercial managers, etc.), requiring strong matrixed management and influence skills to coordinate design efforts across different business units and geographies.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is critical to the success of Ramboll's largest and most complex infrastructure projects. By defining and governing the design approach, managing requirements and interfaces, and driving digital delivery, they directly impact project predictability, efficiency, quality, client satisfaction, and ultimately, Ramboll's profitability and reputation in the infrastructure sector. Their contributions are key to enabling sustainable growth and achieving Ramboll's strategic goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership in a New Department: Opportunity to be a foundational member of the global PMD department, significantly influencing its development, processes, and culture.

• Specialization and Expertise: Deepen expertise in managing design for mega-infrastructure projects, potentially leading to roles like Project Director or Head of Design within PMD.

• Cross-Functional Advancement: Potential to move into broader project management roles or leadership positions within Ramboll's service lines, leveraging their extensive project delivery experience.

• Mentorship and Development: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and project managers, contributing to the development of future talent within Ramboll's operations.

• Industry Influence: Contribute to shaping industry best practices in design management for complex infrastructure projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is designed for individuals with substantial experience who are looking to make a strategic impact. The opportunity to build a new department from the ground up is a significant growth area. The career path suggests progression towards more strategic oversight of project delivery or specialization in managing the most complex global infrastructure challenges.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based on-site in Copenhagen, Denmark, at Ramboll's office located at Hannemanns Allé 53. This suggests a professional office setting designed to facilitate collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Hannemanns Allé 53, 2300 København S, Denmark. This location in Copenhagen provides access to a major European hub with good infrastructure and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office design likely supports multidisciplinary teamwork, with spaces for meetings, workshops, and informal discussions, essential for coordinating complex design efforts.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to Ramboll's suite of project management, design, and digital delivery tools and technologies will be available, supporting efficient workflow and communication.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with a diverse team of project managers, engineers, and other specialists, fostering knowledge sharing and a sense of community within the PMD department and across service lines.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with an expectation of standard office hours (approx. 37-40 hours/week). While flexibility is offered, the demands of managing large-scale infrastructure projects and contributing to proposal development may require adapting work hours to meet critical deadlines and client needs, particularly in an international context.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" requirement in Copenhagen is a key factor. The workspace context emphasizes collaboration and access to technology, which are crucial for a Design Manager involved in complex, digitally-enabled infrastructure projects. The flexibility mentioned is contextualized by the demanding nature of project delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess alignment with core requirements, particularly advanced engineering background and extensive infrastructure project leadership experience.

• Competency-Based Interview: Focus on behavioral questions to assess leadership style, problem-solving abilities, stakeholder management skills, and experience with design governance, requirements, and interface management.

• Technical/Case Study Interview: Discussion of past projects, focusing on specific challenges related to design approach, governance, and delivery outcomes. Candidates may be asked to present or discuss a specific case study from their portfolio.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential colleagues and senior leadership to assess fit with Ramboll's collaborative, international, and sustainability-focused culture.

• Final Decision: Evaluation based on overall experience, technical expertise, leadership potential, and cultural alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you defined and executed design approaches for large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Highlight instances where you established and managed design governance frameworks, detailing the processes and outcomes.

• Showcase your experience in controlling project requirements and managing complex interdisciplinary interfaces, using concrete project examples.

• Be ready to articulate your approach to managing detailed design schedules and ensuring timely delivery.

• If applicable, present examples of how you've leveraged digital delivery tools and methodologies to enhance project outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Candidates should anticipate questions related to strategic decision-making, managing ambiguity, conflict resolution within teams, and driving innovation in project delivery.

• Be ready to articulate your leadership philosophy, particularly concerning team building, fostering collaboration, and driving accountability.

• Prepare to discuss how you would approach setting standards and driving adoption of new processes and technologies within a newly formed global department.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates must be prepared to present detailed evidence of their experience during interviews. The focus on governance, requirements, and interfaces suggests that interviewers will probe for specific methodologies and successful implementations. The role in a new department implies a need to demonstrate strategic thinking and change management capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with standard project management platforms (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6) for scheduling and resource management.

• Design & Engineering Software: Familiarity with industry-standard CAD/BIM software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D) and potentially specialized engineering analysis tools relevant to civil infrastructure.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar platforms for document sharing, communication, and team collaboration.

• Digital Delivery Tools: Familiarity with digital twins, data analytics platforms, and visualization tools that support modern infrastructure project delivery.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with tools for tracking project progress, budget, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Ability to interpret and report on design metrics, risk assessments, and interface status.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how client relationship management contributes to project success is beneficial.

• Experience with process automation tools for workflow optimization and efficiency gains within project delivery is a plus.

• Familiarity with enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems or integrated project management information systems (PMIS) that link design and project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Digital Delivery" aspect is a recurring theme, suggesting that proficiency or at least familiarity with modern digital tools for BIM, data analytics, and collaboration is highly valued. While specific software isn't listed, the description implies a need for a technically adept Design Manager comfortable with a digital-first approach to project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Sustainability: A core value informing all aspects of Ramboll's work, from project design to company operations.

• Collaboration: Emphasis on working together across disciplines, geographies, and service lines to achieve shared goals.

• Innovation: Encouragement of new ideas and approaches to solve complex challenges and improve delivery methods.

• Integrity & Responsibility: Commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and delivering on promises, reflecting the foundation-owned structure.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, positioning Ramboll as a trusted partner.

• Continuous Improvement: A drive to constantly refine processes, enhance capabilities, and raise the bar for delivery excellence.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration with project directors, project managers, commercial managers, and technical specialists across Ramboll's global service lines.

• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that actively promotes sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across international teams.

• Process-Oriented: A focus on establishing and adhering to robust governance frameworks and common ways of working to ensure consistent, high-quality project delivery.

• Inclusivity: A commitment to creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and contribute to better outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values are strongly aligned with Ramboll's identity as a foundation-owned company committed to sustainability. The collaboration style is inherently international and cross-functional, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills to navigate diverse teams and project requirements.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Establishing New Departmental Standards: As part of a new global department, a key challenge will be defining, implementing, and gaining buy-in for new design governance, processes, and ways of working across diverse international teams.

• Managing Complexity of Mega-Projects: Leading design for "mega and large-scale" infrastructure projects inherently involves managing significant technical complexities, large budgets, extensive stakeholder groups, and high levels of risk.

• Driving Digital Adoption: Encouraging and ensuring the effective adoption of digital delivery tools and methodologies across teams accustomed to traditional approaches can be a significant change management challenge.

• Balancing Global Consistency with Local Needs: Ensuring standardized processes while accommodating the unique regulatory, technical, and cultural contexts of projects in different regions.

• Cross-Border Collaboration: Navigating cultural differences, time zones, and communication barriers to foster effective teamwork on international projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Strategic Impact: Opportunity to shape the future of project delivery at Ramboll through the PMD department's development.

• Leadership Development: Advanced training and mentorship in leading large-scale, international project teams and driving operational excellence.

• Industry Best Practices: Exposure to cutting-edge practices in infrastructure design, project management, and digital delivery through global projects.

• Professional Networking: Building a strong network of peers and leaders across Ramboll's global operations and with external clients and partners.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific infrastructure sectors or advanced project delivery methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges are centered around change management, process implementation, and navigating complexity inherent in global mega-projects. The growth opportunities are significant, offering a chance to influence strategic direction and develop advanced leadership skills in a reputable, forward-thinking organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach defining and implementing a robust design governance framework for a new global department, considering diverse project types and geographical locations?" (Focus on phased implementation, stakeholder engagement, and clear documentation.)

• "Describe a situation where you successfully managed complex interdisciplinary requirements and interfaces on a large infrastructure project. What were your key strategies and outcomes?" (Emphasize proactive management, communication, and problem-solving.)

• "What is your vision for leveraging digital delivery tools in the design management of mega-infrastructure projects? How would you champion their adoption within Ramboll?" (Highlight benefits, user training, and phased implementation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you see yourself contributing to Ramboll's commitment to sustainability through your role as Design Manager?" (Connect design decisions to environmental and social impact.)

• "Describe your experience working in international, multidisciplinary teams. What strategies do you employ to foster collaboration and ensure effective knowledge sharing across borders?" (Emphasize inclusion, communication, and conflict resolution.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your presentation around key responsibilities: Design Approach Definition, Governance Implementation, Requirements & Interface Management, Schedule Control, and Digital Delivery Advocacy.

• Case Study Selection: Choose 2-3 prominent projects that best exemplify your experience with large-scale, complex infrastructure and your ability to manage design effectively.

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the scale of the project, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, risk mitigation, improved client satisfaction).

• Process Focus: Be prepared to walk through your methodologies for governance, requirements, and interface management, highlighting the tools and processes you utilize.

• Digital Integration: If possible, demonstrate how digital tools were integrated into your design management process and the benefits achieved.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, strong operational process management, and leadership in a complex, international context. Candidates should be ready to articulate their methodologies and provide concrete examples that align with the core responsibilities and the establishment of a new global department.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application and CV through the online portal on Ramboll's careers page.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and any supplementary documents to highlight your experience in leading design for large-scale infrastructure projects, establishing design governance, and managing complex requirements and interfaces. Prepare specific examples of your achievements in these areas.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience with keywords such as "Design Management," "Infrastructure Projects," "Project Delivery," "Design Governance," "Requirements Management," "Interface Management," "Digital Delivery," and "Stakeholder Management." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly review the job description and this enhanced profile. Practice answering potential interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples and your strategic approach to the challenges outlined. Prepare specific talking points about your experience with leading teams, managing complex projects, and driving process improvements.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Ramboll's mission, values, recent projects (especially in infrastructure), and their commitment to sustainability. Understand the strategic importance of the new PMD department and how your role contributes to Ramboll's overall objectives.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions to provide a comprehensive overview. All details, especially regarding compensation and specific interview stages, should be verified directly with Ramboll during the application process.