Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: United Infrastructure

Location: Swanley, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design & Technical Management (Construction/Infrastructure)

Date Posted: 2026-02-26T10:39:47.353

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage all design and technical aspects of construction and infrastructure projects, ensuring successful delivery within budget and program constraints.

• Oversee external consultants and internal teams, driving coordinated design processes from procurement through to construction completion.

• Ensure strict adherence to company standards, current regulations, and building safety legislation, including CDM and Building Regulations.

• Identify and implement value engineering opportunities to maximize revenue and enhance the cost-effectiveness and buildability of designs.

• Manage the entire design lifecycle, including scoping, procurement of design services, and rigorous review of design information for compliance and completeness.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Design Manager within the construction and infrastructure sector, specifically within United Living Property Services (ULPS). The primary focus is on managing the technical and design elements of residential building projects, with a significant emphasis on compliance with evolving building safety regulations. The level of experience required (10+ years) and the depth of responsibilities suggest a critical leadership role within project delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage technical and design processes for projects, including design teams and subcontractors, from inception through procurement and construction.

• Monitor design progress against agreed programs, ensuring company targets for quality, cost-effectiveness, and buildability are met to generate maximum revenue.

• Review and contribute to bid processes by undertaking technical appraisals of design information, assessing compliance, consultant fee requirements, and developing design programs.

• Assess the quality of received design information, identify value engineering opportunities, mitigate risks, and prepare contractor proposals.

• Review and ensure compliance with Employer's Requirements (ER) technical specifications.

• Produce, develop, control, and manage project-specific design programs, providing regular progress reporting.

• Undertake the procurement of consultant and subcontractor designers, assessing their competency and provided evidence.

• Monitor and manage consultant fees and invoicing, ensuring budget adherence.

• Fulfill the role of CDM Principal Designer, ensuring compliance with the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations.

• Fulfill the Building Regulations Principal Design role and act as the named Designated Individual for compliance.

• Conduct thorough reviews of consultant and subcontractor designs to ensure compliance with legislation, system literature, planning consent, buildability, completeness, best value, accuracy, and overall risk elimination.

• Review and assess alternative build methods and practices to optimize project delivery.

• Manage and coordinate external consultants in their day-to-day duties related to design, coordination, and technical aspects of production information, driving high standards within time, quality, budget, and technical constraints.

• Ensure designs comply with company standards and promote design that respects budgetary constraints.

• Organize and manage technical coordination workshops, package reviews, and design team meetings.

• Ensure full coordination of all building design aspects, including fire safety, structures, M&E, facades, internal specifications, service strategies, and maintenance strategies.

• Issue fully complete, correct, and coordinated design packages to Commercial and Construction teams.

• Establish the required scoping for survey and investigative works.

• Maintain and deliver in accordance with company values, promoting a culture of health and safety excellence.

• Manage subcontractor and supplier design approvals, maintaining a tracker in line with the program.

• Manage the flow of design and technical information to Commercial, Operations, and Client teams.

• Update and coordinate monthly design schedules.

• Chair and undertake design package presentations in conjunction with consultant and subcontractor designers.

• Review and coordinate design and technical issues with Commercial and Operations teams.

• Monitor changes from the Client, design consultants, subcontractors, and proposed changes by the construction team, managing the change control process for variations.

• Collate information and liaise with Planning Authorities and Building Control for submissions and approvals.

• Oversee document control, including registration and distribution of design and technical information, ensuring efficient workflow processing.

• Ensure current drawings are filed correctly and design information exchange adheres to company protocol.

• Conduct site visits as required for monitoring and to attend site and project meetings.

• Monitor executed work on-site against benchmarks and design specifications.

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

• Review and advise on corrective measures for identified design issues.

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

• Oversee and participate in the collation of handover information, including the golden thread, H&S files, O&M manuals, and resident packs.

• Comply with all company policies, procedures, and instructions, particularly concerning health, safety, and environmental policies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities list is extensive and covers the full spectrum of design and technical management in construction. It emphasizes the need for a proactive, detail-oriented individual capable of managing multiple stakeholders and complex processes. The inclusion of CDM Principal Designer and Building Regulations Principal Design roles highlights a critical focus on regulatory compliance and safety, particularly relevant in the current construction landscape.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Minimum Level 4 (HNC/NVQ4 etc.) Architectural qualification, or equivalent design, technical, and/or construction-based qualification. Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIOB, CIAT, RICS) is desirable.

Experience: 10+ years of experience, with a proven track record of successfully managing all aspects of the design and technical process in relation to residential buildings, particularly high-rise developments.

Required Skills:

• Thorough and proactive management style with strong leadership capabilities.

• Ability to lead and coordinate with managers across a wider team.

• Skill in prioritizing and delegating tasks effectively.

• Strong negotiation, motivation, and communication skills to influence stakeholders.

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

• Leadership skills including assertiveness, decisiveness, flexibility, and effective time management.

• Organized and effective at leading/participating in meetings, with the ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines.

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

• Effective people management of direct reports, including goal setting, performance management, feedback, direction, support, and coaching.

• Proven problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

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

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

• Knowledge of methodology and sequencing processes in delivering a construction project, including design and pre-construction activities.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Understanding of the building safety legislative framework, including the Building Safety Act, Building Regulations (duty holder roles & competency requirements), and HRB Procedure Regulations.

• Strong technical knowledge and skillset to assess, challenge, and monitor design work compliance.

• Experience in designer scoping.

Preferred Skills:

• Passion for construction and customer satisfaction, with a focus on high standards and excellence.

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

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

• Tenacious and driven work ethic.

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

• Experience in producing and managing design programs.

• Knowledge of PAS9980 fire risk assessments, EWS1s, and FRAEW.

• Temporary works knowledge and experience.

• Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD or Revit).

• Knowledge and understanding of BIM (Building Information Modeling).

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications section clearly distinguishes between essential and desirable skills, providing a balanced perspective on candidate requirements. The emphasis on both technical design acumen and strong 'soft skills' like leadership, communication, and problem-solving is crucial for a senior role. The specific mention of high-rise development experience and building safety legislation underscores the specialized nature of this position within the current construction regulatory environment.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of successful project delivery from a design and technical management perspective, showcasing end-to-end project lifecycle involvement.

• Case studies detailing significant value engineering initiatives, highlighting cost savings, improved buildability, or enhanced design quality achieved.

• Evidence of managing and coordinating external consultants and subcontractors, including examples of performance management and issue resolution.

• Documentation illustrating the management of design programs, including development, tracking, and reporting mechanisms.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow diagrams or process maps illustrating the design management process from project inception through to construction issue, including key stages, decision points, and stakeholder involvement.

• Documentation demonstrating experience with change control processes, including variation management, impact assessment on program and cost, and approval workflows.

• Examples of RFI management processes, showing how site queries were handled, investigated, and resolved efficiently.

• Documentation related to the Principal Designer role under CDM regulations, outlining safety management processes and risk mitigation strategies.

• Records or descriptions of how handover information (golden thread, H&S files, O&M manuals, resident packs) is collated and managed.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio is critical. It should not just list projects but demonstrate the candidate's strategic thinking, problem-solving abilities, and leadership in managing complex design processes. The focus should be on quantifiable achievements and clear evidence of process management, particularly in areas like value engineering, risk mitigation, and regulatory compliance.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the Senior Design Manager title, 10+ years of experience, specific responsibilities (including Principal Designer roles), and location in the South East of England, a competitive salary range is estimated between £60,000 - £85,000 per annum. This estimate is benchmarked against similar roles in the UK construction and infrastructure sector, considering the complexity and regulatory demands.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary recognizing expertise and experience.

• Comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

  • Pension scheme with employer contributions.

  • Life assurance.

  • Health and well-being programs.

  • Opportunities for professional development and training.

  • Paid time off (holiday entitlement).

  • Potential for performance-related bonuses.

  • Company car or car allowance, given the requirement for site visits and a valid driving license. Working Hours: 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time role in the UK construction industry. While core hours are standard, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend site meetings, particularly for on-site roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Design Manager in the UK with significant experience and high-level responsibilities. The inclusion of a company car/allowance is a common benefit for roles requiring frequent travel to construction sites.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: United Infrastructure operates within the UK's vital infrastructure, construction, and property services sector. Their focus is on creating resilient infrastructure, affordable housing, and improved living spaces, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity. The Property Services pillar (ULPS) specifically targets revitalization of homes and communities, regeneration, and ensuring building safety standards for public sector clients.

Company Size: United Living Group is a substantial organization, indicated by its multiple complementary businesses and its role in significant national projects. While an exact employee count isn't provided, the scope of operations suggests a large enterprise, likely employing several hundred to over a thousand individuals. This size implies established processes, a structured hierarchy, and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: United Living was founded to address the need for modern, sustainable infrastructure and housing solutions. The company's mission to be the partner and employer of choice highlights a commitment to excellence, innovation, and community impact. Its structure into four complementary businesses indicates a strategic approach to market coverage and service delivery.

Team Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely be part of a broader Project Delivery or Technical Services team within United Living Property Services (ULPS). This team will include project managers, construction managers, quantity surveyors, and other technical specialists. The reporting structure will place the Senior Design Manager at a leadership level, potentially reporting to a Head of Design, Technical Director, or a Senior Project Director. Collaboration with Commercial, Operations, and Client teams is explicitly mentioned, indicating a highly integrated cross-functional working environment.

Methodology: United Living emphasizes a mission-driven approach focused on creating a sustainable and inclusive society through resilient infrastructure and improved living spaces. Their operations likely involve robust project management methodologies, a commitment to health and safety, and a focus on delivering value for public sector clients. The emphasis on design quality, cost-effectiveness, and buildability points to a pragmatic and results-oriented operational methodology.

Company Website: uig.net

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and structure suggest a commitment to social impact and long-term infrastructure development. The Senior Design Manager role is central to achieving these goals by ensuring the technical integrity and successful execution of projects. The emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity likely permeates the company culture and operational practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a Senior-level position, requiring extensive experience (10+ years) and a high degree of autonomy and responsibility. It sits at a critical juncture, bridging strategic design planning with practical construction execution. The Senior Design Manager is expected to lead teams, manage complex technical challenges, and ensure compliance with stringent regulations.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director-level position within the Property Services pillar, such as a Technical Director, Head of Design, or a Senior Project Director. They will, in turn, manage and coordinate external consultants and potentially internal design staff or junior designers. This structure allows for direct oversight of all design-related project activities.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a profound impact on project success. Their ability to ensure designs are compliant, cost-effective, buildable, and delivered on time directly influences:

• Project Profitability: Through effective value engineering and cost control.

• Project Timelines: By ensuring smooth design progression and timely issue of information.

• Health and Safety: By fulfilling Principal Designer duties and ensuring robust safety considerations in design.

• Client Satisfaction: By delivering projects that meet or exceed requirements and regulatory standards.

• Company Reputation: Through the successful delivery of high-quality, safe, and sustainable projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to roles such as Head of Design, Technical Director, or Director of Project Delivery within United Living.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas like high-rise construction, sustainable design, or building safety compliance, potentially leading to consultancy or specialized project leadership roles.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior design managers and technical staff, contributing to the development of future talent within the organization.

• Strategic Input: Involvement in shaping design strategies, standards, and best practices across the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Design Manager role offers significant opportunities for career advancement, particularly within a growing organization like United Infrastructure. The emphasis on building safety and complex residential developments provides a strong foundation for specialized expertise and leadership development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based on-site or within a hybrid model that requires significant time at project locations. While there may be a head office or regional office for administrative tasks, the core responsibilities necessitate active engagement with construction sites and consultant offices. This environment is typically dynamic and fast-paced.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Swanley, England. However, as a Senior Design Manager, there will be a need to travel to various project sites across the UK, as indicated by the requirement for a valid driving license and on-site responsibilities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role demands constant collaboration with site teams, project managers, commercial teams, external consultants, and clients. This involves regular meetings, workshops, and site visits.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to project management software, document management systems, CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit), and potentially BIM platforms will be essential. The company will likely provide the necessary hardware and software licenses.

• Operations Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with the project delivery team, design consultants, and subcontractors is integral to the role, fostering a team-oriented approach to problem-solving and project execution.

Work Schedule: Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, the demands of construction projects may necessitate occasional flexibility, including working extended hours or weekends to meet critical deadlines, respond to site issues, or attend urgent meetings. This flexibility is often balanced with the company's commitment to employee well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role means that candidates should be comfortable with travel and working in a construction environment. The blend of office-based coordination and site-based oversight is characteristic of senior construction management positions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CVs and cover letters to assess qualifications, experience, and suitability against essential criteria.

• First Interview: Likely with an HR representative or a hiring manager to discuss career history, motivations, and general suitability. This stage might include behavioral questions.

• Technical Interview/Assessment: A more in-depth interview, potentially involving a technical challenge or case study presentation. This will focus on design management expertise, understanding of regulations (CDM, Building Regs), buildability, value engineering, and problem-solving skills. Candidates may be asked to present elements of their portfolio.

• Final Interview: With senior leadership (e.g., Director of Operations, Technical Director) to assess strategic thinking, leadership potential, cultural fit, and overall alignment with the company's vision and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your most relevant and impactful projects, focusing on high-rise residential developments if possible.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings from value engineering, time saved through efficient design coordination, risk mitigation examples).

• Showcase Process Management: Highlight your experience in managing design programs, consultant procurement, technical appraisals, and change control.

• Demonstrate Regulatory Knowledge: Include examples or discuss how you ensured compliance with CDM regulations, Building Regulations, and the Building Safety Act.

• Prepare for Presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio, explaining your contributions clearly and concisely. Practice your presentations to ensure a smooth and engaging delivery.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Focus: Expect a scenario-based problem, such as a design coordination issue, a value engineering proposal, or a compliance query. Prepare to outline your approach, decision-making process, and proposed solution.

• Regulatory Understanding: Be ready to discuss your interpretation and application of key legislation like CDM 2015 and the Building Safety Act 2022, including duty holder responsibilities.

• Buildability & Value Engineering: Prepare examples of how you've improved the buildability of designs or identified significant cost savings through value engineering.

• Stakeholder Management: Consider how you would manage conflicting demands from different stakeholders (client, site team, consultants) and articulate your communication strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role like this is rigorous. Candidates should be prepared to delve deep into their technical expertise and demonstrate their leadership capabilities through concrete examples and well-structured presentations of their work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Tools like MS Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms for program development, tracking, and reporting.

• Document Management Systems (DMS): Platforms such as Aconex, Procore, or SharePoint for managing the flow and control of design and technical information.

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD is essential. Experience with Revit and other BIM-related software is highly desirable for modern design coordination.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal and external team communication and coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced Excel skills for data analysis, cost tracking, and reporting.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise reports and presentations on design progress, risks, and budget status.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information interfaces with commercial and operational systems is beneficial. Experience with ERP systems or project accounting software could be an advantage.

• Design Software Integration: Understanding how CAD/BIM software integrates with other project lifecycle tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong technical aptitude with design software and project management tools is a prerequisite. The ability to adapt to and effectively utilize the company's specific technology stack will be crucial for success.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Health & Safety: A paramount value, reflected in the company's drive for "world-class Health and Safety" and the explicit requirement for compliance with H&S policies.

• Collaboration: Emphasized through the requirement to work effectively with diverse teams (Commercial, Operations, Client, Consultants) and to chair coordination workshops.

• Quality & Excellence: Driven by the pursuit of high standards in design, buildability, and customer satisfaction.

• Efficiency & Value: Focus on delivering projects cost-effectively, identifying value engineering opportunities, and maximizing revenue through smart design.

• Sustainability & Inclusivity: Reflecting the company's broader mission to create a more sustainable and inclusive society through its projects.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role necessitates seamless collaboration with Commercial and Operations teams to ensure designs are aligned with budget, program, and site execution capabilities.

• Process Review Culture: Regular technical coordination workshops and package reviews indicate a culture of open discussion, feedback exchange, and continuous improvement of design processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: The responsibility for managing information flow and resolving RFIs promotes a collaborative approach to problem-solving and knowledge sharing across project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate an alignment with these values, particularly in their approach to health and safety, team collaboration, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, efficient, and sustainable projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Evolving Regulations: Keeping abreast of and implementing changes related to the Building Safety Act and associated regulations as a Principal Designer.

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Demands: Balancing the needs and expectations of clients, site teams, consultants, and regulatory bodies.

• Ensuring Design Buildability & Cost-Effectiveness: Finding the optimal balance between innovative design, buildability on-site, and adherence to strict budgetary constraints.

• Coordinating Multi-Disciplinary Designs: Effectively integrating structural, M&E, façade, and interior specifications to create a cohesive and compliant final design.

• Rapid Project Timelines: Meeting demanding program requirements in a fast-paced construction environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to training programs focused on advanced building safety legislation, BIM, specific construction methodologies, or project management techniques.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Opportunities to attend industry events and pursue professional certifications relevant to design management, construction safety, or specific technical areas.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential for mentorship from senior leaders within United Infrastructure to guide career development and strategic thinking.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of infrastructure and residential projects provides continuous learning and exposure to different challenges and solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant but also present excellent opportunities for professional growth and skill development, particularly in specialized areas of construction management and regulatory compliance.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy & Methodology: "Describe your approach to developing a comprehensive design program for a high-rise residential project. How do you ensure it aligns with the overall project timeline and budget?" "How do you ensure buildability and cost-effectiveness are integrated into the design process from inception?"

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "Walk me through a time you had to manage conflicting design requirements from different stakeholders. What was your strategy and the outcome?" "How do you foster effective communication and collaboration between design consultants and the site construction team?"

• Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Describe a complex technical design issue you encountered on a previous project. How did you identify the root cause, what solutions did you propose, and what was the impact of your resolution?" "How have you implemented value engineering to achieve significant cost savings or improve project outcomes?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about United Living's commitment to sustainability and building safety, and how would your role contribute to these objectives?"

• "How do you align with a company culture that emphasizes collaboration and a proactive approach to health and safety?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) format. Clearly define the context, your specific role and responsibilities, the actions you took, and the measurable results achieved.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your design management contributed to project success, cost savings, risk reduction, or enhanced safety. Use data and metrics wherever possible.

• Highlight Regulatory Compliance: Be prepared to discuss your role in fulfilling Principal Designer duties and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, using specific project examples.

• Be Interactive: Engage with the interviewers, answer their questions directly, and be open to discussing your thought process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be looking for a blend of technical expertise, leadership capability, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of construction regulations. Practicing responses to these types of questions, drawing on specific examples from your portfolio, will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.smartrecruiters.com.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience in residential building design management, high-rise developments, CDM Principal Designer roles, and knowledge of building safety legislation. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select your strongest projects that showcase your skills in design coordination, value engineering, program management, and regulatory compliance. Be ready to present and discuss these in detail during interviews.

• Research United Infrastructure: Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and recent projects, particularly within their Property Services pillar. Understand their commitment to sustainability and building safety.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral, technical, and situational questions, drawing on specific examples from your experience and portfolio. Be ready to discuss your approach to managing design challenges and leading teams.

⚠️ 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.