Partnership/Framework Lead Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Partnership/Framework Lead Design Manager Company: United Infrastructure Location: London, United Kingdom Job Type: Full-time Category: Operations Management / Design Management (Construction Sector) Date Posted: October 9, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the Technical Team (Design Managers, Design Coordinators, Document Controllers) across all project lifecycle stages from bid to handover, ensuring operational excellence and technical delivery.
• Drive the design and technical development of multiple infrastructure projects, focusing on delivering high-quality, cost-effective, and buildable solutions that meet client requirements and business objectives.
• Provide expert technical guidance, ensure regulatory compliance, and foster strong relationships with internal teams, external consultants, and subcontractor designers.
• Mitigate project risks, uphold quality standards, safeguard profit margins, and contribute to new bid opportunities through technical appraisals and value engineering.
• Champion a positive and inclusive team environment, focusing on individual development, performance management, and the empowerment of team members to achieve strategic goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Partnership/Framework Lead Design Manager," has significant operational responsibilities due to its focus on managing technical teams, project delivery, process adherence, resource allocation, and risk mitigation within the construction sector. It bridges design leadership with operational oversight, requiring a candidate adept at both technical execution and management. The emphasis on "frameworks" and "partnerships" suggests a strategic component in managing ongoing client relationships and established project pipelines.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide clear, visible leadership and direction to the Technical Team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and accountability throughout all project phases.
• Develop and maintain robust, process-driven methodologies for design and technical delivery, ensuring consistent high standards and adherence to company Technical Operating Procedures.
• Manage the allocation of resources, monitor team workloads, and track Technical Team resource costs against agreed budgets, ensuring efficient and cost-effective operations.
• Proactively identify and mitigate project risks, safeguard profit margins, and cultivate strong client relationships to position the organization as the partner of choice.
• Contribute to new bid opportunities by conducting technical appraisals of design information, assessing compliance, consultant fees, and design program requirements, including identifying value engineering opportunities.
• Ensure timely and accurate production and management of design programs, coordinating with Commercial and Construction teams to deliver complete and coordinated design packages.
• Oversee the building regulations Principal Designer role (Dutyholder), ensuring thorough reviews of design information for compliance with legislation, buildability, and risk elimination.
• Manage the change control process for variations related to drawing revisions, construction programs, and costs, ensuring proper documentation and approval.
• Ensure all planning and building control applications are submitted and approvals gained in accordance with the agreed program.
• Monitor subcontractor and supplier design trackers, ensuring timely approvals and conducting package presentations before formal release.
• Uphold company values, policies, and procedures, with a strong emphasis on health, safety, and environmental standards in all aspects of work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a strong operational focus, extending beyond pure design management to encompass the operational efficiency of the technical delivery process, financial oversight of team resources, risk management, and strategic input into bids. The emphasis on "process-driven approach," "resource allocation," "budget tracking," and "risk mitigation" are core operational functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While specific educational requirements are not detailed, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or a related discipline is typically expected for a role of this seniority.
• Professional certifications related to project management (e.g., APM, Prince2) or design management in construction would be advantageous.

Experience:

• Proven track record in successfully managing all aspects of the design and technical process for residential buildings, with a strong emphasis on high-rise developments.
• Significant experience in leading and developing technical teams, including design managers, coordinators, and document controllers.
• Demonstrable experience in contributing to new bid opportunities, including technical appraisals and value engineering.
• Experience in fulfilling the Building Regulations Principal Designer role (Dutyholder).

Required Skills:

• Leadership & People Management: Proven ability to lead, motivate, coach, and develop a technical team, including goal setting, performance management, and fostering an inclusive environment.
• Design Management: Comprehensive understanding of the design lifecycle for residential and high-rise developments, including bid support, design coordination, and handover.
• Technical Expertise: Strong technical knowledge to assess, challenge, and monitor design work for compliance with legislation, buildability, and company standards.
• Project & Program Management: Skilled in prioritizing, delegating, and managing tasks effectively, with a strong understanding of construction project methodology and sequencing processes.
• Regulatory Compliance: Up-to-date knowledge of construction industry legislation, building regulations (including dutyholder roles, competency requirements), and the Building Safety Act.
• Risk Management & Quality Assurance: Ability to identify and mitigate risks, uphold quality standards, and ensure designs are compliant and cost-effective.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, effective at all levels of management and with internal/external stakeholders.
• Commercial Acumen: Understanding of budgets and financial management, with the ability to ensure cost-effective team performance and maximize revenue through design.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with high-rise developments.
• Knowledge of the Building Safety Act and associated regulations.
• Skills in negotiating, influencing, and building strong relationships with consultants and subcontractors.
• Analytical mindset with strong attention to detail.
• Experience in developing and upskilling teams.
• Valid driving license.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications list is robust, emphasizing practical experience and leadership. The "Required Skills" section is particularly detailed, highlighting a blend of technical, managerial, and interpersonal competencies crucial for operational success in a design management context. The mention of "high-rise developments" and specific building safety legislation indicates a specialized area of focus within residential construction.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented examples of successfully managed design processes for residential and high-rise projects, showcasing end-to-end delivery from bid to handover.
• Case studies demonstrating effective leadership and management of technical teams, highlighting team development, performance improvements, and collaborative problem-solving.
• Evidence of risk mitigation strategies implemented within design processes, with demonstrable outcomes in safeguarding profit margins and quality.
• Examples of contributions to new bid opportunities, including technical appraisals, value engineering proposals, and assessment of consultant fees/programs.
• Demonstrations of how regulatory compliance (e.g., Building Regulations, Building Safety Act) was ensured and managed throughout design phases.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to demonstrate a thorough, process-driven approach to managing design and technical delivery.
• Proficiency in developing, implementing, and adhering to Technical Operating Procedures is essential.
• Ability to manage and track design programs, resource allocation, and team costs against agreed budgets.
• Experience in utilizing document management systems for organizing, tracking, and exchanging design information.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio would ideally showcase not just design outputs but the processes used to achieve them, the management of those processes, and the outcomes in terms of efficiency, cost, quality, and safety. The emphasis on "process-driven approach" and "Technical Operating Procedures" implies that candidates should be prepared to discuss their systematic methods for managing design delivery.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the location (London, UK), experience level (5-10 years), and the senior management nature of this role, an estimated salary range would be £65,000 - £85,000 per annum. This is based on industry benchmarks for Lead Design Managers, Senior Design Managers, and Technical Leads in the UK construction sector, considering the responsibility for multiple projects and team leadership.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary (as estimated above).
• Pension scheme contribution.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.
• Potential for performance-related bonuses or incentives.
• Company car or car allowance (indicated by the requirement for a valid driving license).
• Paid time off and holiday entitlement.
• Contribution to a positive and supportive team environment.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.
• The role requires flexibility to meet project deadlines and client demands, which may involve occasional extended hours or weekend work, particularly during critical project phases or bid periods.
• Hybrid working model allows for 3 days in the office and 2 days remote, offering a balance between collaborative in-office work and personal flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges for senior roles in London are competitive. The requirement for a driving license strongly suggests a company car or allowance is part of the benefits package, a common perk for site-based or client-facing management roles in construction. The hybrid model indicates a modern approach to work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure (Utility and Social Infrastructure sectors). United Infrastructure specializes in designing, building, and maintaining critical infrastructure, including utility networks (water, energy, telecoms) and social infrastructure (residential retrofit, refurbishment, maintenance). Company Size: United Infrastructure is described as a "dynamic and rapidly expanding business." While an exact number isn't provided, this suggests a company that is growing, likely employing several hundred to over a thousand employees, and operating with a degree of agility. Founded: The company has rebranded from United Living to United Infrastructure, indicating a strategic evolution. The founding date of the original entity would provide context on its established history and experience in the market.

Team Structure:

• The role involves leading the "Technical Team," which includes Design Managers, Design Coordinators, and Document Controllers. This team operates across all project stages.
• Close collaboration is expected with Operations and Commercial teams to resolve issues and ensure integrated project delivery.
• The role reports to the "Head of Technical" and involves interaction with Directors and Managers across the wider team, indicating a structured, hierarchical organization with cross-functional reporting.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on a "process-driven approach" and "operational excellence."
• Focus on delivering "innovative solutions" to complex challenges.
• Commitment to "high-quality, cost-effective, and buildable design."
• Upholding "world-class health and safety standards."
• Promoting an "inclusive, supportive team environment" with open communication.

Company Website: https://www.uig.net/ (Note: The provided URL is for UIG.net, which likely pertains to United Infrastructure).

📝 Enhancement Note: The company operates within a critical sector, delivering essential services. The rapid expansion suggests opportunities for growth and involvement in diverse projects. The culture appears to value excellence, process, collaboration, and safety, with a recent rebranding indicating a strategic direction towards broader infrastructure.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Lead/Managerial role within the technical and design operations of the company. It sits at a senior individual contributor or first-line management level, responsible for a specialized team and significant project oversight. It's a crucial link between strategic design direction and on-the-ground project execution.

Reporting Structure:

• Reports to the Head of Technical.
• Manages a team of Design Managers, Design Coordinators, and Document Controllers.
• Collaborates closely with Operations and Commercial teams.
• Interacts with Directors and Managers across the wider business.

Operations Impact:

• The role directly impacts project success by ensuring designs are compliant, cost-effective, and buildable, which in turn affects project timelines, profitability, and client satisfaction.
• Effective technical leadership contributes to the company's reputation, its ability to win new bids, and its overall operational efficiency in delivering infrastructure projects.
• By managing risks and quality, the role protects the company's financial interests and its commitment to safety and regulatory standards.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to Head of Technical, Director of Design, or a more senior operations management role within the company as it expands.
• Specialization: Deeper expertise in specific infrastructure types (e.g., high-rise residential, utilities) or in areas like Building Safety Management.
• Strategic Involvement: Increased involvement in business development, strategic planning, and framework development for new partnerships.
• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor and develop junior design and technical staff, building future leadership pipelines.
• Industry Recognition: Potential to represent the company at industry forums or contribute to best practice development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a growing infrastructure company. The emphasis on team development and strategic contributions suggests opportunities for individuals looking to move into broader operational leadership or specialized technical management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as Hybrid, with an expectation of 3 days in a National Office (ideally London-based) and 2 days remote. This suggests a modern office environment designed for collaboration, team meetings, and focused work, balanced with the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s):

• Primarily London-based, but candidates willing to travel are considered, indicating a national presence for United Infrastructure's operations.
• Specific office locations are not detailed but would likely be strategically placed to support project delivery across the UK.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office days are intended for team meetings, cross-functional collaboration with Operations and Commercial teams, and direct management of the Technical Team.
• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software, project management tools, and document management systems will be provided to facilitate efficient work.
• Team Interaction: The hybrid model allows for regular face-to-face interaction with the reporting team and wider management, fostering strong working relationships.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time hours (approx. 40 hours per week) apply.
• Flexibility is required to meet project demands, which may necessitate working beyond standard hours during peak periods or critical project milestones. The hybrid arrangement offers some flexibility in managing personal time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect of the work environment, balancing the need for in-person collaboration with employee flexibility. The emphasis on collaboration implies that office days will be structured around team activities and stakeholder engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess experience in residential/high-rise design management, team leadership, and regulatory knowledge.
• First Interview: Likely with HR and/or a senior manager, focusing on behavioral questions, leadership style, and overall fit with company culture and values. Expect questions related to team management, conflict resolution, and project challenges.
• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a technical assessment or case study presentation related to managing a design process, resolving a complex technical issue, or developing a bid proposal. This stage will evaluate problem-solving skills, technical acumen, and strategic thinking.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership (e.g., Head of Technical, Operations Director) to discuss strategic alignment, long-term vision, and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process & Outcomes: Your portfolio should highlight not just the final designs but the processes you implemented, the challenges you overcame, and the results achieved (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, risk reduction, quality improvements).
• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics and data to demonstrate the impact of your leadership and process improvements. For example, "Reduced design approval times by 15%" or "Managed a technical team of 10 across 5 concurrent projects."
• Highlight Leadership: Include examples of team development, coaching, and how you fostered a high-performing team environment.
• Demonstrate Regulatory Understanding: Present case studies that clearly show how you navigated complex building regulations and safety legislation.
• Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by key responsibility area, with clear summaries for each section. Be prepared to walk through 1-2 key projects in detail.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Focus: Anticipate a case study that requires you to outline a strategy for managing a complex design challenge, improving team efficiency, or responding to a client request with budget constraints.
• Process & Strategy Articulation: Be ready to articulate your systematic approach to design management, risk mitigation, and team leadership. Focus on how you would implement and enforce company procedures.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Practice explaining how you would communicate with various stakeholders (internal teams, clients, consultants, subcontractors) to ensure alignment and resolve issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely multi-stage, designed to assess both technical competence and leadership capabilities. A strong portfolio that demonstrates a systematic, process-oriented approach to design management, coupled with quantifiable achievements in team leadership and risk mitigation, will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Modeling Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD), BIM (Building Information Modeling) software (e.g., Revit, Navisworks), and potentially 3D modeling tools.
• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms for project planning, scheduling, and tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing, versioning, and distributing project documentation (e.g., Aconex, Procore, SharePoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, financial tracking, and reporting.
• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating reports on project progress, team performance, and technical compliance. This could involve using built-in features of project management software or dedicated reporting tools.
• Data Visualization: Ability to create clear and concise visualizations (charts, graphs) to present data to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly stated as a CRM role, understanding client interaction and relationship management is key. Experience with client management aspects of project management platforms would be relevant.
• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or principles to streamline design approval processes or administrative tasks within the technical team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role heavily relies on digital tools for design, project planning, and documentation management. A candidate's familiarity with BIM and robust project management/document control systems will be critical for operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering consistently high standards in design and technical execution.
• Process-Driven: Adherence to established procedures and a methodical approach to managing work.
• Collaboration: Working effectively with internal teams (Operations, Commercial) and external partners (consultants, subcontractors).
• Accountability: Empowering team members to take ownership of their work and responsibilities.
• Safety & Compliance: Upholding the highest standards of health, safety, and regulatory adherence.
• Innovation: Seeking innovative solutions to complex infrastructure challenges.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless integration with Operations and Commercial teams to ensure project alignment and issue resolution.
• Partnership Approach: Building and nurturing strong relationships with consultant and subcontractor designers, fostering a collaborative rather than purely contractual dynamic.
• Open Communication: Promoting an environment where open communication is encouraged, feedback is exchanged, and individuals feel valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a blend of structured processes with a proactive, collaborative, and people-centric approach. The values align with a responsible and efficient operator in the infrastructure sector.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Projects: Overseeing the design and technical delivery for numerous concurrent projects, each with unique requirements and timelines.
• Balancing Stakeholder Demands: Navigating the diverse needs and expectations of clients, internal teams, consultants, and subcontractors.
• Ensuring Regulatory Adherence: Staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving construction legislation, particularly in building safety.
• Team Development & Performance: Motivating and upskilling a technical team, managing performance, and resolving interpersonal dynamics within a hybrid work environment.
• Cost & Schedule Pressures: Delivering high-quality designs within strict budget constraints and aggressive program timelines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Building Safety Training: Deepening expertise in the Building Safety Act and dutyholder responsibilities.
• Leadership & Management Development: Access to training programs focused on strategic leadership, team optimization, and operational management.
• Industry Specialization: Gaining in-depth knowledge of specific infrastructure sectors or complex construction methodologies.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders or to mentor emerging talent within the organization.
• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining relevant professional qualifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for professional growth by tackling complex challenges in a dynamic industry, with clear pathways for leadership development and skill enhancement in critical areas like building safety and project operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Strategy: "Describe your process for managing the technical delivery of multiple concurrent infrastructure projects. How do you ensure consistency in quality and compliance across different projects and team members?"
• Team Leadership: "How do you motivate and develop a technical team, particularly in a hybrid work environment? Provide an example of a time you successfully coached or developed a team member."
• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a key subcontractor’s design is significantly delayed and impacting the project program. What steps would you take to resolve this, considering cost, quality, and client relationships?"
• Risk Management: "How do you proactively identify and mitigate risks within the design process for a high-rise residential project? What is your approach to ensuring compliance with the Building Safety Act?"
• Bid Contribution: "Describe your experience in contributing to new bid opportunities. What key technical aspects do you focus on during the appraisal process?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about United Infrastructure and our work in social and utility infrastructure?"
• "How do you embody our company values of excellence, collaboration, and safety in your daily work?"
• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration between design teams and operations/commercial departments?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Process: When presenting case studies, emphasize the methodology and processes you implemented for design management, team leadership, and risk mitigation.
• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics to demonstrate the tangible results of your efforts (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements).
• Highlight Leadership: Showcase your ability to lead, develop, and motivate teams.
• Address Challenges: Be prepared to discuss specific challenges faced in past projects and how you overcame them.
• Tailor to UIG: Connect your experience and approach to the specific needs and values of United Infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of operational processes in design management, robust leadership skills, and a proactive approach to risk and compliance, particularly within the context of UK construction legislation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.
• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a portfolio that highlights your experience in managing design processes for residential and high-rise developments. Include specific case studies demonstrating your team leadership, risk mitigation strategies, and contributions to bid processes. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your CV to emphasize keywords such as "Lead Design Manager," "Technical Delivery," "Team Leadership," "Regulatory Compliance," "Building Regulations," "Project Management," "Risk Mitigation," and "Construction Methodology." Clearly articulate your experience with high-rise developments and your understanding of the Building Safety Act.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your operational strategy for managing design teams and projects. Be ready to discuss your approach to stakeholder management, problem-solving, and fostering a positive team culture. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with United Infrastructure's projects, values, and recent rebranding. Understand their focus on utility and social infrastructure and how your role contributes to their mission and growth objectives.

⚠️ 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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