Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager Company: United Infrastructure Location: London & Surrounding Areas, United Kingdom Job Type: Full-time Category: Design & Construction Management Date Posted: 2025-10-09 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the technical and design aspects of critical infrastructure projects, ensuring adherence to budget and program timelines.
• Lead and manage design teams, including external consultants and subcontractors, throughout all project phases from design to construction.
• Drive innovation in design processes to enhance buildability, cost-effectiveness, and revenue generation for the Social Infrastructure pillar.
• Ensure comprehensive design coordination, regulatory compliance, and timely approvals to facilitate seamless site commencement.
• Act as a key stakeholder in bid reviews, providing technical appraisals and assessing design requirements for new projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a senior-level position within the Design and Construction Management domain, specifically focusing on the Social Infrastructure pillar of United Infrastructure. The emphasis is on strategic oversight, technical leadership, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure project success. The hybrid nature suggests a need for strong self-management and communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage design and technical processes for projects, ensuring delivery on time and within budget, while meeting company targets for revenue generation through optimized design quality, cost-effectiveness, and buildability.
• Conduct thorough technical appraisals of design information for bids, assessing design requirements, compliance, consultant fee structures, and developing detailed design programs.
• Review and assess the quality of received design information, identifying value engineering opportunities, risks, and preparing contractor proposals.
• Produce, develop, control, and manage project-specific design programs, providing regular progress reporting to relevant stakeholders.
• Manage the procurement of consultant and subcontractor designers, assessing their competency and ensuring adherence to project requirements.
• Fulfill the statutory duties of the CDM Principal Designer and Building Regulations Principal Design role, including acting as the Designated Individual.
• Thoroughly review and interrogate consultant and subcontractor designs for compliance with legislation, system literature, planning consent, buildability, completeness, best value, accuracy, and risk elimination.
• Review and assess alternative construction methods and practices to promote innovation and efficiency.
• Manage and coordinate external consultants, driving high standards in design, coordination, and technical aspects of production information within project constraints.
• Ensure designs comply with company standards and are mindful of 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, and service/maintenance strategies.
• Establish required scoping for survey and investigative works.
• Manage subcontractor and supplier design approvals, maintaining trackers and ensuring timely turnaround.
• Oversee the flow of design and technical information to Commercial, Operations, and Client teams.
• Manage the change control process for variations, including drawing revisions, construction programs, and costs.
• Liaise with Planning Authorities and Building Control for submissions and approvals, overseeing document control for design and technical information.
• Monitor and manage the processing of information through workflows on the document management system, ensuring current drawings are filed correctly.
• Undertake site visits and attend site meetings to monitor work executed against benchmarks and designs.
• Manage, investigate, and respond promptly to Requests for Information (RFIs) from site teams and subcontractors.
• Review and advise on corrective measures for identified design issues.
• Oversee and participate in the collation of handover information, including golden thread documentation, H&S files, O&M manuals, and resident packs.
• Ensure adherence to company values, health, safety, and environmental policies, promoting world-class Health and Safety standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of responsibilities highlights the critical nature of this role in bridging the gap between initial design concepts and site execution. Emphasis is placed on proactive management, risk mitigation, and ensuring compliance with both regulatory and company-specific standards. The inclusion of Principal Designer and Designated Individual roles signifies a high level of statutory responsibility.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum Level 4 (HNC/NVQ4 etc.) Architectural qualification, or equivalent design, technical, and/or construction-based qualification (Desirable).

Experience:

• Proven track record of successfully managing all aspects of the design and technical process in relation to residential buildings (Essential).
• High rise development experience (Essential).
• Experience in designer scoping (Essential).
• Proven track record of design requirements for procurement and construction purposes (Desirable).
• Experience of producing and managing design programs (Desirable).
• Up to date relevant construction industry knowledge including legislation and procedures (Essential).
• Valid driving licence (Essential).
• Knowledge of methodology and sequencing process in delivering a construction project including design and pre-construction activities (Essential).
• Strong technical knowledge and skillset to assess, challenge, and monitor design work compliance (Essential).
• Minimum 10+ years of experience in a relevant design management or technical leadership role (Inferred from Experience Level).

Required Skills:

• Pro-active management style with the capability to lead and coordinate with managers across a wider team.
• Ability to prioritize and delegate effectively, negotiate, motivate, and communicate to influence others and meet objectives.
• Analytical approach to work with a keen eye for detail.
• Leadership skills including assertiveness, decisiveness, flexibility, good time management, and organization.
• Effective at leading/participating in meetings and working well under pressure to strict deadlines.
• Ability to review drawings and identify buildability and technical issues.
• Effective people management of direct reports, including goal setting, performance management, giving feedback, direction, support, and coaching.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Effective communication with all levels of management and project teams, both internal and external.
• 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 the HRB Procedure Regulations.

Preferred Skills:

• Passion for construction and customer satisfaction, with a focus on high standards and excellence.
• 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.
• Knowledge of PAS9980 fire risk assessments, EWS1s, and FRAEW.
• Temporary works knowledge and experience.
• Experience with CAD (AutoCAD or Revit).
• Knowledge and understanding of BIM.
• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIOB, CIAT, or RICS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and a deep understanding of construction processes and regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning building safety. The "Essential" skills are critical for daily operations, while "Desirable" skills offer a competitive advantage and align with industry best practices in modern construction design. The inferred 10+ years of experience is typical for a Senior Design Manager role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of Managed Projects: Detailed examples showcasing your leadership in managing design processes from inception to completion, highlighting successful delivery against budget, timeline, and quality objectives. Focus on residential building projects and high-rise developments.
• Demonstration of Design Coordination: Evidence of your ability to coordinate complex designs involving multiple disciplines (structural, M&E, facade, etc.), showcasing your approach to resolving conflicts and ensuring integrated solutions.
• Value Engineering Initiatives: Examples of how you have identified and implemented value engineering opportunities to improve cost-effectiveness and buildability without compromising quality or safety.
• Regulatory Compliance Examples: Documentation or descriptions of projects where you successfully navigated complex building regulations, CDM, and Building Safety Act requirements, including your role as Principal Designer.

Process Documentation:

• Design Program Management: Examples of project-specific design programs you have developed and managed, including reporting mechanisms and adaptation strategies for changes.
• Risk Management & Mitigation: Documentation outlining your approach to identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks throughout the project lifecycle.
• Information Flow Management: Evidence of systems or processes you've implemented for managing the flow of design and technical information between internal teams, consultants, subcontractors, and clients.
• Change Control Procedures: Examples of how you have managed the change control process for variations, demonstrating your ability to track impacts on drawings, programs, and costs.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should not only showcase completed projects but also clearly articulate the candidate's strategic thinking, process management capabilities, and problem-solving skills. Emphasis on specific deliverables like design programs, risk registers, and change logs will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: £65,000 - £85,000 per annum.
• Explanation: This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in London and surrounding areas with 10+ years of experience in the construction sector. Factors considered include the role's seniority, responsibility for project delivery, management of teams and budgets, and the specific requirements for building safety legislation compliance. This range reflects the demand for experienced professionals in this specialized field within a major metropolitan area.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Model: Flexibility to balance office-based work with remote work, promoting work-life integration.
• Pension Scheme: Comprehensive company pension scheme to support long-term financial planning.
• Health & Wellbeing Programs: Access to employee assistance programs and wellness initiatives.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, including support for relevant training, certifications, and membership fees for professional bodies.
• Company Car/Allowance: Likely provision of a company car or car allowance, given the requirement for travel and a valid driving license.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave allowance.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 per week, Monday to Friday. However, given the project-driven nature of the role and the need to meet deadlines, some flexibility may be required, including occasional attendance at evening or weekend meetings or site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar senior roles in the London construction market. The inclusion of a company car/allowance is inferred from the requirement for a valid driving license and the nature of site visits typical for this role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Utilities, and Social Infrastructure. United Infrastructure operates in sectors critical to public services and community development, focusing on delivering essential infrastructure projects. Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the description of "dynamic and rapidly expanding business" and the mention of "National Offices" suggests a medium-to-large enterprise, likely employing several hundred to over a thousand individuals. This size offers opportunities for both structured processes and potential for significant impact. Founded: The rebranding from "United Living" to "United Infrastructure" indicates a recent strategic evolution, suggesting a company that is adapting and growing. The exact founding date of United Living is not provided, but the rebranding points to a company with established operations looking to expand its scope or market position.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will likely be part of a broader Design or Technical department, reporting to a Head of Design, Technical Director, or a Director of Operations within the Social Infrastructure pillar.
• The role involves managing both internal teams (potentially design coordinators, technicians) and external consultants (architects, engineers, specialist consultants).
• Close collaboration with Commercial, Operations, and Construction teams is a key aspect of the role, indicating a matrixed or highly integrated project delivery structure.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on reviewing technical specifications, assessing design information, and utilizing data from site feedback (RFIs, site visits) to inform design adjustments and improvements.
• Process Optimization: A core aspect of the role involves refining design processes, implementing value engineering, and ensuring buildability and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborative Problem-Solving: The role requires working closely with various stakeholders to resolve design challenges, coordinate efforts, and achieve project objectives.

Company Website: uig.net (Inferred from domain_derived: uig.net)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on critical infrastructure implies a commitment to quality, safety, and long-term impact. The "rapidly expanding" nature suggests a dynamic environment where process improvement and efficient project delivery are highly valued.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management position, indicating a significant level of responsibility and leadership. As a Senior Design Manager, you are expected to operate with a high degree of autonomy, manage complex projects, and influence strategic decisions related to design and technical delivery. Reporting Structure: Typically, a Senior Design Manager would report to a Director-level executive within the Social Infrastructure division, such as a Technical Director, Head of Design, or Operations Director. They would, in turn, manage a team of design professionals and external consultants. Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a direct and substantial impact on project success. Effective design management ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality and safety standards. This directly influences profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation for delivering critical infrastructure. Decisions made by the Senior Design Manager can significantly affect buildability, long-term maintenance costs, and the overall value delivered.

Growth Opportunities:

• Director-Level Roles: Progression to roles such as Head of Design, Technical Director, or a broader Operations Director position within United Infrastructure.
• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas like high-rise development, building safety regulations, or advanced construction technologies (BIM, modular construction).
• Cross-Pillar Experience: Opportunities to move into design management roles within the Utility Infrastructure pillar, broadening experience across different project types.
• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training programs and opportunities to mentor junior design staff, preparing for future leadership challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Design Manager role is a pivotal position within the company's project delivery framework. Growth opportunities are substantial, leading towards executive leadership or deep technical specialization within the infrastructure sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work arrangement, indicating a mix of office-based and remote work. The company has "National Offices," suggesting well-equipped facilities for collaboration and focused work. Office Location(s): Primarily London-based, but open to candidates willing to travel to other national offices. This implies a need for flexibility in location and travel commitments. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates frequent interaction with internal teams (Commercial, Operations, Construction) and external consultants, likely involving a mix of formal meetings and informal discussions.
• Tools and Technology: Access to standard office technology, project management software, and potentially specialized design and BIM software (AutoCAD, Revit). Effective document management systems are critical.
• Team Interaction: Regular participation in design coordination workshops, package reviews, and team meetings, fostering a collaborative and communicative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is complemented by the necessity for flexibility to meet project deadlines and attend site visits or critical meetings, which may occur outside of standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role requires strong self-discipline and time management. The emphasis on collaboration and site visits suggests a dynamic work environment that balances structured office work with hands-on project engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by HR or a recruitment specialist to assess basic qualifications and experience.
2. Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a Director or Head of Department) to delve into your experience, leadership style, and understanding of design management principles. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.
3. Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to complete a technical assessment or present a case study from your portfolio, demonstrating your problem-solving skills, technical knowledge, and ability to manage complex design challenges. This could involve reviewing a set of drawings or a design problem.
4. Panel Interview: An interview with a panel of key stakeholders, potentially including representatives from Commercial, Operations, and other senior design personnel. This assesses your cultural fit, collaborative approach, and ability to communicate effectively across different departments.
5. Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with a senior executive, leading to a job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio logically. For each project, clearly state your role, the project's scope, your key responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (budget, timeline, quality, safety).
• Highlight Key Responsibilities: Specifically showcase examples related to:
  • Leading design teams and external consultants.
  • Managing design programs and information flow.
  • Ensuring compliance with CDM, Building Regulations, and Building Safety Act.
  • Value engineering and buildability improvements.
  • Resolving complex design conflicts.
  • Site liaison and RFI management.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate impact (e.g., "Reduced design program by 2 weeks," "Achieved 15% cost saving through value engineering," "Managed a design budget of £X million").
• Showcase Technical Acumen: Include examples of your ability to review and interrogate technical drawings and specifications. If you have experience with BIM or CAD, provide relevant examples.
• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience with residential buildings and high-rise developments, as these are explicitly mentioned requirements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Coordination Exercise: Be ready to discuss how you would coordinate a complex design scenario, identify potential clashes (e.g., between MEP services and structural elements), and propose solutions.
• Regulatory Compliance Scenario: Prepare to discuss how you would ensure compliance with the Building Safety Act for a new residential project, outlining your role as Principal Designer and your approach to competency management.
• Problem-Solving Questions: Anticipate questions about how you would handle a situation where a subcontractor's design is non-compliant or significantly delayed, or how you would manage conflicting requirements from different stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only technical competence but also leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities. A well-curated portfolio that directly addresses the job requirements is critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Tools for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).
• Document Management Systems: For organizing, distributing, and controlling design and technical information (e.g., Aconex, Procore, SharePoint).
• CAD Software: Experience with AutoCAD and/or Revit is highly desirable for reviewing and understanding technical drawings.
• BIM Software: Knowledge and understanding of Building Information Modeling (BIM) principles and software are preferred, indicating a modern approach to design and construction.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, reporting, and creating trackers (e.g., for consultant fees, design approvals, RFIs).
• Presentation Software: Tools like PowerPoint for preparing design presentations and progress reports for stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information interfaces with commercial and operational systems is crucial. Familiarity with systems that manage project lifecycles and stakeholder communication is beneficial.
• Workflow Automation: Experience with or understanding of workflow automation within document management systems or project management platforms.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with project management and document control systems is essential for day-to-day operations. Familiarity with BIM and CAD software is increasingly important for design professionals in the construction industry.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Health and Safety: A paramount value, with a strong emphasis on delivering world-class Health and Safety standards in all aspects of work. This translates to rigorous adherence to procedures and proactive risk management.
• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to high standards in design and construction, ensuring client satisfaction and the delivery of robust, long-lasting infrastructure.
• Efficiency & Cost-Effectiveness: A focus on maximizing revenue through quality, cost-effectiveness, and buildability of designs, demonstrating a results-oriented approach.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing effective communication and coordination across internal teams, external consultants, and subcontractors to achieve shared project goals.
• Pro-activity & Innovation: Encouraging a proactive management style, analytical thinking, and the exploration of value engineering and alternative construction methods.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role demands seamless collaboration with Commercial, Operations, and Construction teams, requiring clear communication channels and a shared understanding of project objectives.
• Process Review Culture: An environment that encourages the review and improvement of design and technical processes, including feedback loops from site execution to design development.
• Knowledge Sharing: Implicitly, fostering an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights are shared among design teams and project stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be driven by a strong commitment to safety, quality, and efficient delivery, with a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Candidates who align with these values and can effectively navigate cross-functional relationships will thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Demands: Managing multiple projects simultaneously, each with unique design requirements, tight deadlines, and budget constraints, while ensuring quality and safety.
• Navigating Regulatory Complexity: Keeping abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving construction legislation, particularly the Building Safety Act and associated regulations, which carry significant responsibility.
• Managing External Stakeholders: Effectively coordinating and managing the performance of diverse external consultants and subcontractors, ensuring they meet United Infrastructure's standards and project timelines.
• Integrating New Technologies: Adapting to and potentially implementing new design technologies, such as advanced BIM or offsite manufacturing methods, to improve efficiency and buildability.
• Site-Specific Issues: Addressing unforeseen site conditions or challenges that require rapid design adjustments and problem-solving from a distance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Building Safety Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in the Building Safety Act, CDM regulations, and related competency frameworks, potentially leading to specialized certifications.
• BIM and Digital Construction: Further development in BIM workflows and digital construction technologies to enhance design coordination and project delivery.
• Leadership and Management Skills: Access to leadership development programs to hone people management, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Industry Conferences and Networking: Participation in industry events to stay updated on best practices, new technologies, and regulatory changes.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior design professionals and learn from senior leadership within United Infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to senior roles in complex construction projects, requiring resilience and continuous learning. The growth opportunities are geared towards advancing leadership capabilities and technical specialization within the infrastructure sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Leadership & Strategy: "Describe your approach to leading a design team and managing external consultants to deliver a complex residential project on time and within budget." Focus on your process for setting objectives, monitoring progress, and ensuring quality.
• Regulatory Compliance & Risk: "How would you ensure compliance with the Building Safety Act and CDM regulations for a high-rise residential development? Discuss your role as Principal Designer and how you manage design-related risks." Be prepared to articulate your understanding of duty holder responsibilities.
• Problem-Solving & Decision Making: "Walk me through a situation where you identified a significant design flaw or buildability issue late in the design process. What steps did you take to resolve it, and what was the outcome?" Emphasize your analytical process and decision-making under pressure.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to United Infrastructure and this specific Senior Design Manager role within our Social Infrastructure pillar?" Research the company's recent rebranding, project types, and values.
• "How do you foster a collaborative working environment, especially when dealing with diverse internal teams and external partners?" Discuss your communication style and experience in cross-functional collaboration.
• "How do you ensure that design decisions align with budgetary constraints and contribute to the company's profitability?" Highlight your experience with value engineering and cost-effective design.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Begin with a high-level overview of your most relevant projects, highlighting key achievements and responsibilities that directly match the job description.
• Deep Dive into Key Projects: Select 2-3 projects that best exemplify your skills in residential development, high-rise construction, and regulatory compliance. For each, clearly articulate:
  • The Challenge (e.g., complex site, tight budget, regulatory hurdles).
  • Your Role and Responsibilities (especially Principal Designer duties).
  • The Solution/Process (how you managed design, coordination, value engineering).
  • The Outcome (quantifiable results in terms of budget, timeline, quality, safety).
• Demonstrate Process: Use visual aids (drawings, schedules, flowcharts) to illustrate your design management processes, information flow, and change control mechanisms.
• Address Key Requirements: Explicitly link your portfolio examples to the essential skills and qualifications listed in the job description, such as your experience with the Building Safety Act, high-rise developments, and technical coordination.
• Q&A Readiness: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your portfolio items and your decision-making rationale.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews for senior roles often involve behavioural and situational questions. Preparing specific examples from your experience, structured using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), will be highly beneficial. Demonstrating a clear understanding of the company's industry and the specific challenges of the Social Infrastructure pillar is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.smartrecruiters.com.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your CV and any accompanying documents highlight your experience in residential building design, high-rise developments, and statutory compliance (CDM, Building Safety Act). Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description.
• Highlight Key Achievements: Quantify your accomplishments where possible, focusing on successful project delivery, cost savings through value engineering, and effective stakeholder management.
• Prepare for Technical Discussion: Be ready to discuss your technical knowledge, design management processes, and experience with relevant software (CAD, BIM, project management tools).
• Research United Infrastructure: Understand the company's mission, values, and the specific focus of its Social Infrastructure pillar. Be prepared to articulate why you are a good cultural fit and how your experience aligns with their strategic goals.

⚠️ 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.