Design Manager/Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager / Senior Design Manager Company: AECOM Location: Glasgow, United Kingdom / Manchester, United Kingdom Job Type: Full-time Category: Design Management / Project Management Date Posted: 21 August 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years suggested) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in overseeing and executing design management strategies for complex infrastructure projects, primarily within the UK and internationally, leveraging AECOM's global expertise.
• The position requires a strong blend of technical design understanding, project financial management, and robust stakeholder engagement to ensure successful project delivery and client satisfaction.
• A core function involves managing third-party design consultants, ensuring seamless integration of their contributions into the overall project lifecycle and adherence to contractual agreements.
• The Design Manager will be instrumental in establishing, implementing, and optimizing design management procedures, focusing on quality, compliance, and efficiency across all project phases.
• This role also encompasses team development, mentoring junior design managers, and contributing to the overall leadership and strategy of the design management function within AECOM.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Manager/Senior Design Manager" title suggests a flexible role that can accommodate candidates with varying levels of experience, with potential for increased responsibility and project scope for Senior candidates. The emphasis on international projects indicates a need for adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage design management aspects for diverse infrastructure projects across the UK and internationally, ensuring alignment with AECOM's project delivery standards.
• Oversee AECOM's financial processes related to design projects, including budgeting, invoicing, and financial reporting, to maintain project profitability and client trust.
• Conduct rigorous reviews of work outputs from internal teams and sub-consultants to guarantee quality, accuracy, and compliance with contractual requirements and project specifications.
• Manage sub-consultant relationships by preparing responsibility matrices, drafting back-to-back contracts, and overseeing contract updates and final document preparation.
• Develop and implement comprehensive design management procedures, encompassing roles and responsibilities, scope delineation, design programming, deliverable management, quality control, budget management, change control, and approval processes.
• Organize and facilitate project meetings and design workshops to foster collaboration, resolve design challenges, and ensure effective design coordination among all stakeholders.
• Assist in managing and developing the Design Management team by mentoring junior staff, providing training, conducting performance reviews, and supporting leadership initiatives.
• Achieve AECOM Project Management (PM) accreditation, demonstrating proficiency in AECOM's financial systems and project management processes.
• Prepare and update cash flow projections for projects, monitor sub-consultant invoice submissions, and prepare monthly financial reports to track project expenditure and forecast future financial needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on project governance, financial acumen, and contract management, in addition to core design coordination. The expectation to "Achieve AECOM PM accreditation" signifies a structured approach to professional development and adherence to internal company standards for project management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A strong understanding of the design process is fundamental, likely underpinned by a degree in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical) or Architecture.
• Consideration may be given to candidates with extensive relevant experience in lieu of a formal degree, particularly for Senior Design Manager roles.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing design processes for complex infrastructure projects, with a focus on process optimization and risk mitigation.
• Proven track record in managing sub-consultant scopes of work, including contract negotiation, administration, and performance monitoring.
• Experience in developing and implementing robust design management tools and procedures that enhance project efficiency, quality, and compliance.
• A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in design coordination, project management, or a related role within the engineering or construction industry.

Required Skills:

• In-depth understanding of the complete design process, from conceptualization to construction documentation and handover.
• Proficient project and design programming skills, with the ability to develop, monitor, and report on design schedules using tools like MS Project.
• Hands-on experience in the development and implementation of design management tools and procedures, including workflow design and standardization.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, essential for effective stakeholder management, client liaison, and team collaboration.
• Strong commercial awareness of projects, including contract negotiation, financial management, and risk assessment within a project context.
• Solid construction knowledge and practical experience, enabling a holistic understanding of design implications on site.
• Proficiency in core project management and design software: Microsoft Project for scheduling, Microsoft Excel for financial tracking and data analysis, and Adobe InDesign for document creation and presentation.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AECOM's internal project management and financial systems.
• Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) processes and technologies.
• Knowledge of relevant UK and international design codes, standards, and regulations.
• Experience in managing design projects in specific sectors relevant to AECOM's portfolio (e.g., transportation, buildings, water, energy).
• Accreditation or working towards accreditation as a Project Manager with a recognized professional body.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software proficiency (MS Project, Excel, InDesign) suggests these are critical day-to-day tools. The mention of "AECOM PM accreditation" indicates a formal internal development path and a need for candidates to demonstrate alignment with AECOM's project management methodologies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a portfolio of successfully managed design projects, showcasing progression from initial concept to final delivery, with a focus on complexity and scale.
• Include case studies that highlight your role in process optimization within design management, illustrating improvements in efficiency, cost savings, or quality enhancements.
• Provide evidence of system implementation or significant utilization of design management tools and procedures, detailing the impact on project outcomes.
• Showcase instances where you effectively managed design budgets and change control processes, demonstrating commercial acumen and financial responsibility.

Process Documentation:

• Present examples of design programs, demonstrating your ability to develop realistic timelines, track progress, and report on deviations and mitigation strategies.
• Include documentation related to the establishment and implementation of design management procedures, such as scope delineation matrices, quality assurance plans, and risk management frameworks.
• Showcase your approach to managing design coordination and approvals, including coordination meeting minutes, design review reports, and approval tracking mechanisms.
• Provide examples of financial management processes, such as cash flow projections, sub-consultant invoice monitoring, and financial reporting, demonstrating your ability to manage project finances effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, emphasizing practical application of design management principles, process improvement, and financial control. Candidates should be prepared to detail specific project examples that demonstrate proficiency in all aspects of the design management lifecycle.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• For Glasgow, United Kingdom: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 5-10 years of experience, the estimated salary range is approximately £50,000 - £75,000 per annum.
• For Manchester, United Kingdom: Similar to Glasgow, the estimated salary range is approximately £50,000 - £75,000 per annum.
• 📝 Enhancement Note: These estimates are derived from UK salary data for similar roles in engineering consultancy firms, considering the specified experience level and location. Actual compensation will depend on the specific experience, qualifications, and the final determination of whether the role is filled as a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Work Options: Flexibility to work from AECOM offices, remote locations, or client sites, promoting a balanced work-life integration.
• Professional Development: Access to industry-leading technology and thinking, opportunities for AECOM PM accreditation, and support for continuous learning and skill development.
• Global Opportunities: Potential to work on international projects, expanding professional experience and exposure to diverse markets.
• Comprehensive Well-being Programs: A wide array of compensation, benefits, and well-being programs designed to meet diverse employee needs.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Likely includes a company-matched pension scheme, a standard benefit in the UK.
• Health and Wellness Initiatives: Support for employee health and wellness, potentially including private medical insurance and wellness resources.
• Paid Time Off: Generous holiday entitlement, sick leave, and parental leave policies.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours:

• Typically 40 hours per week, aligning with standard full-time employment in the UK.
• Flexibility in working hours may be available, subject to project demands and team coordination, supporting the hybrid work model.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM, as a large, publicly traded firm, is expected to offer a competitive benefits package that includes robust professional development opportunities and a commitment to employee well-being, reflecting their "Freedom to Grow" ethos.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting Services, Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide spectrum of services across transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and the environment. Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This signifies a large, established organization with extensive resources, a global presence, and a structured corporate environment. Founded: AECOM traces its roots back to 1910. This long history suggests a company with deep industry experience, stability, and a proven track record of adapting to market changes.

Team Structure:

• The Design Management team is likely composed of specialized professionals who focus on coordinating and optimizing the design process across various disciplines. Team size can vary significantly by project, but within AECOM, there are likely dedicated Design Management leads and teams supporting different business units or project types.
• Reporting structures will typically involve reporting to a senior Design Manager, a Project Director, or a Business Unit Lead, depending on the project and organizational hierarchy.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, with frequent interaction with engineers, architects, project managers, commercial teams, clients, and sub-consultants from various disciplines.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach, utilizing analytics for project planning, risk assessment, and performance monitoring to ensure optimal outcomes.
• Workflow planning and optimization are core to their operations, focusing on efficiency, quality, and client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.
• Automation and efficiency practices are likely integrated, leveraging digital tools and technologies to streamline processes and enhance productivity.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's scale and global reach mean that operations professionals within the company are exposed to a wide array of project types and methodologies. The focus on "delivering a better world" and "transforming skylines" indicates a culture that values impactful, large-scale projects.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, suitable for individuals with 5-10 years of relevant experience. It offers a significant opportunity to manage complex design processes and develop leadership skills within a global organization. Reporting Structure: Typically, a Design Manager reports to a Project Director or a Senior Design Manager, with direct responsibility for managing junior design managers and coordinating with various project stakeholders and sub-consultants. Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring the technical and financial success of projects by optimizing the design process, controlling costs, managing risks, and ensuring quality deliverables. Their work directly impacts project timelines, budget adherence, and ultimate client satisfaction, contributing to AECOM's overall revenue and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Manager/Principal Design Manager: Progression to senior roles with increased project responsibility, client management, and strategic input into design management frameworks.
• Project Management: Transition into broader project management roles, overseeing all aspects of project delivery, not just the design phase.
• Sector Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific infrastructure sectors (e.g., transportation, water, energy) and become a subject matter expert.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead teams, mentor junior staff, and contribute to business development and client relationship management.
• International Assignments: Potential to take on design management roles on global projects, offering diverse experiences and career expansion.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's "Freedom to Grow" motto suggests a commitment to employee development. This role provides a clear pathway for career advancement within design management or into broader project leadership roles, supported by internal training and accreditation programs.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM likely operates modern, professional office environments that support collaboration and focused work. Given the hybrid work model, offices would be equipped with meeting rooms, hot-desking facilities, and collaborative workspaces. Office Location(s): The primary locations mentioned are Glasgow and Manchester in the United Kingdom. These are major cities with established AECOM offices, offering accessibility and proximity to other professional services.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, with opportunities to engage with multidisciplinary teams on projects.
• Access to AECOM's comprehensive suite of digital tools and technology, including project management software, design platforms, and communication tools, is expected.
• Regular interaction with project teams, including engineers, planners, project managers, and clients, will be a key part of the daily work environment.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is likely 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, totaling 40 hours per week.
• Hybrid work arrangements offer flexibility, allowing employees to balance office-based work with remote working, subject to project needs and team coordination. This flexibility is crucial for managing detailed design processes and client meetings effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is a significant factor, requiring strong self-management and communication skills to ensure seamless collaboration and project continuity when working remotely or in the office.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review applications and résumés to assess basic qualifications and experience.
• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve a discussion focused on your understanding of the design process, project programming, financial management, and experience with design management procedures. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your portfolio.
• Competency-Based Interview: Questions will assess behavioral competencies such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership, aligning with AECOM's values and the role's requirements.
• Portfolio Presentation/Case Study: You may be asked to present a selection of your work, detailing your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved. This is a critical part of demonstrating your practical skills and impact.
• Final Interview: Typically with senior leadership, this interview will focus on assessing cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the role and AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 diverse projects that best showcase your experience in design management, covering different project types, complexities, and your key responsibilities.
• Focus on Process & Impact: For each project, clearly outline the design management processes you implemented, the challenges encountered, your specific contributions, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, quality enhancements).
• Quantify Achievements: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work. For example, "Reduced design coordination issues by 15% through implementation of a new review process."
• Structure Your Narrative: For case studies, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework to present your experiences clearly and concisely.
• Highlight Software Proficiency: Be ready to discuss how you've utilized MS Project, Excel, and InDesign in your projects to manage schedules, financials, and deliverables.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenario: You might be given a hypothetical project scenario and asked to outline your approach to managing the design process, including programming, sub-consultant management, and risk mitigation.
• Financial Management Task: A task might involve analyzing a project budget, identifying potential cost overruns, and proposing solutions.
• Coordination Problem: You could be presented with a design coordination issue and asked to explain how you would facilitate its resolution.
• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your portfolio and technical solutions clearly and persuasively, as effective communication is key.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess both technical competence and behavioral fit. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates your process-driven approach and quantifiable achievements will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Project: Essential for creating, managing, and tracking project schedules, timelines, and resource allocation. Proficiency in task dependencies, critical path analysis, and progress reporting is crucial.
• Microsoft Excel: Widely used for financial management, including budget tracking, cash flow projections, invoice reconciliation, and data analysis for reporting. Advanced functions, pivot tables, and data visualization skills are highly beneficial.
• Adobe InDesign: Used for creating professional project documentation, reports, presentations, and design program documents. Familiarity with layout, typography, and graphic integration is important.
• Microsoft Office Suite: General proficiency in Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook for daily communication, documentation, and presentation preparation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• AECOM's Internal Project Management Systems: Likely includes proprietary or customized tools for project tracking, financial reporting, and performance monitoring.
• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Potentially used for more advanced data analysis and dashboard creation, though not explicitly mentioned.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: May be used for managing client relationships and business development activities, although not a direct focus of this role.
• Automation Tools: While not specified, any experience with project management workflow automation or integration tools could be beneficial for process optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around project scheduling, financial management, and document creation using standard Microsoft and Adobe software. Candidates should be able to demonstrate practical application of these tools in a design management context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings, particularly in financial management and contract administration.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Proactively identifying opportunities for improvement, innovation, and business growth within project delivery.
• Pioneering Mindset: Embracing new ideas, technologies, and approaches to solve complex infrastructure challenges.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with diverse teams, clients, and stakeholders to achieve shared project goals.
• Excellence: Committing to high standards of quality, performance, and client service in all aspects of work.
• Safety & Sustainability: Prioritizing safe working practices and contributing to environmentally and socially responsible project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• AECOM fosters a collaborative environment where cross-functional teams work together to deliver integrated solutions.
• Expect a culture of open communication, where feedback is encouraged, and challenges are addressed collectively.
• Knowledge sharing is promoted to leverage the collective expertise of the global workforce.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values emphasize innovation, integrity, and a strong sense of purpose in delivering impactful projects. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these values in their approach to work and team interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Portfolios: Juggling multiple complex projects simultaneously, each with unique requirements, timelines, and stakeholders.
• Sub-Consultant Management: Ensuring consistent performance, quality, and adherence to contract terms from a variety of external design partners.
• Navigating International Project Requirements: Adapting to different regulatory environments, cultural norms, and contractual practices for projects outside the UK.
• Maintaining Budgetary Control: Effectively managing project finances, controlling costs, and mitigating risks of budget overruns in a dynamic project environment.
• Driving Design Quality: Ensuring that design deliverables meet high standards of technical accuracy, compliance, and constructability.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AECOM PM Accreditation: A structured program to gain formal project management certification within the company.
• Technical Training: Access to specialized training in design management best practices, new technologies, and industry standards.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior professionals and to mentor junior team members.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in events to stay abreast of industry trends, network with peers, and gain new insights.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Working on projects across different sectors provides broad exposure to various engineering and design disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant opportunities for professional growth, particularly in developing advanced project management and leadership skills within a global context. The challenges are characteristic of large-scale infrastructure projects, requiring strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing design programs and deliverables on a large-scale infrastructure project. How do you ensure timely delivery and quality?" (Focus on programming skills, review processes, and stakeholder communication.)
• "How do you approach the financial management of design projects, including budgeting, cash flow, and managing changes? Provide an example." (Highlight commercial awareness, Excel proficiency, and financial reporting experience.)
• "Walk me through a situation where you had to manage a challenging sub-consultant. What steps did you take, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrate sub-consultant management skills, problem-solving, and contract adherence.)
• "How do you ensure effective design coordination and communication among multiple disciplines and stakeholders?" (Emphasize communication skills, meeting facilitation, and coordination procedures.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work and our commitment to delivering a better world?" (Research AECOM's recent projects, values, and strategic goals.)
• "How do your personal values align with AECOM's core values of integrity, entrepreneurial spirit, and pioneering mindset?" (Reflect on your own professional approach and provide examples.)
• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you handle hybrid working arrangements." (Showcase adaptability, self-management, and collaboration skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Start with an Overview: Briefly introduce yourself and the projects you will present, highlighting the key skills and experiences they demonstrate.
• Project Deep Dives: For each project, clearly articulate:
  • The project's scope, objectives, and your specific role.
  • The design management processes and tools you utilized.
  • Key challenges faced and how you overcame them.
  • The quantifiable results and impact of your work.
• Highlight Software Use: Integrate examples of how you used MS Project, Excel, and InDesign to manage project tasks, finances, and documentation.
• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your decisions, methodologies, and the outcomes of your presented work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be ready to connect your experience directly to AECOM's stated values and project delivery approach. Your portfolio should serve as tangible evidence of your capabilities in managing complex design processes efficiently and effectively.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager / Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights experience directly relevant to design management, project programming, financial control, and sub-consultant management, using keywords from the job description. Quantify achievements where possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that showcases 3-4 key projects demonstrating your process management, problem-solving, and impact, focusing on the required software proficiencies.
• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's global projects, company values, and recent news to better articulate your fit during interviews.
• Practice Your Narrative: Prepare concise and compelling answers to common interview questions, particularly those related to your experience in design management, financial acumen, and team collaboration. Practice presenting your portfolio case studies clearly and efficiently.

⚠️ 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.