Senior Design Manager - Complex Projects

📍 Job Overview

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

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and technical strategy for complex construction and infrastructure projects within the Social Infrastructure pillar, ensuring alignment with budget, program, and quality objectives.
• Manage and coordinate all external consultants and internal stakeholders throughout the design, procurement, and construction phases, driving efficiency and mitigating risks.
• Oversee compliance with all relevant legislation, building regulations, and company standards, with a particular focus on building safety and fire regulations.
• Drive value engineering initiatives and assess buildability, ensuring innovative and cost-effective design solutions are implemented.
• Implement robust document control and information management processes to facilitate seamless project delivery and handover.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for ensuring the technical integrity and successful execution of complex projects within United Infrastructure's Social Infrastructure business. The emphasis on "Complex Projects" and "High Rise Development" suggests a need for advanced problem-solving skills and experience with large-scale, multi-faceted construction challenges. The inclusion of "Principal Designer" and "Designated Individual" responsibilities indicates a significant level of technical authority and regulatory accountability.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the technical and design processes for complex projects, leading design teams and subcontractors from inception through to construction completion.
• Develop, manage, and report on project-specific design programs, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with overall project timelines and company targets.
• Conduct thorough technical appraisals of design information for bids, assessing requirements, compliance, consultant fees, and production of design programs.
• Evaluate the quality of received design information, identify value engineering opportunities, assess risks, and prepare contractor proposals.
• Review and interrogate consultant and subcontractor designs to ensure compliance with legislation, planning consents, buildability, completeness, accuracy, and best value.
• Manage and coordinate external consultants, driving their day-to-day duties related to design, coordination, and technical production information within defined constraints.
• Ensure all aspects of building design are fully coordinated, including fire safety, structures, M&E, facades, internal specifications, and service/maintenance strategies.
• Establish and manage required scoping for survey and investigative works, ensuring thoroughness and accuracy.
• Oversee subcontractor and supplier design approvals, maintaining trackers and ensuring timely turnaround in line with project programs.
• Manage the flow of design and technical information to Commercial, Operations, and Client teams, ensuring clear and consistent communication.
• Chair and conduct design package presentations in conjunction with consultant and subcontractor designers, facilitating clarity and agreement.
• Monitor and manage change control processes for variations, assessing impacts on drawing revisions, construction programs, and costs.
• Liaise with Planning Authorities and Building Control to ensure submissions are made in accordance with programs and all necessary approvals are obtained.
• Oversee document control, managing the registration, distribution, and processing of design and technical information through workflows on the document management system.
• Conduct site visits and attend site meetings to monitor work execution against benchmarks and designs, and to manage, investigate, and respond promptly to RFIs.
• Oversee and participate in the collation of handover information, including golden thread documentation, H&S files, O&M manuals, and resident packs.
• Uphold and promote company values, with a strong emphasis on world-class Health and Safety standards in all aspects of work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive list of responsibilities highlights the critical nature of this role in bridging the gap between design conception and site execution. The emphasis on "compliance," "buildability," "value engineering," and "risk elimination" underscores the need for a meticulous and strategic approach to design management. The requirement to fulfill "CDM Principal Designer" and "Building Regulations Principal Design" roles signifies a high level of technical expertise and legal responsibility within the UK construction framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

Experience:

• Proven track record of successfully managing all aspects of the design and technical process in relation to residential buildings, particularly high-rise developments.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in design management within the construction industry.
• Experience in designer scoping and managing design programs.
• Demonstrable experience in fulfilling Principal Designer and Building Regulations Principal Design roles under CDM and Building Regulations.

Required Skills:

• Thorough and proactive management style with the capability to lead and coordinate with managers across a wider team.
• Ability to prioritize, delegate effectively, negotiate, motivate, and communicate to influence others and meet required objectives.
• Analytical approach to work with a keen eye for detail and strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Effective people management skills, including goal setting, performance management, giving feedback, direction, support, and coaching.
• Strong technical knowledge and skillset to assess, challenge, and monitor design work compliance.
• Up-to-date construction industry knowledge, including legislation, procedures, and building safety frameworks (Building Safety Act, Building Regulations, HRB Procedure Regulations).
• Knowledge of methodology and sequencing processes in delivering construction projects, including design and pre-construction activities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of management and project teams.
• Valid driving license.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD or Revit).
• Knowledge and understanding of BIM (Building Information Modeling).
• Knowledge of PAS9980 fire risk assessments, EWS1s, and FRAEW.
• Temporary works knowledge and experience.
• In-depth knowledge of contractual requirements, section agreements, and utility application processes.
• Passionate about construction and customer satisfaction, with a focus on high standards and excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The distinction between essential and desirable skills clearly maps out the foundational requirements versus areas that offer a competitive advantage. The emphasis on "High rise development experience" and specific building safety legislation is critical for understanding the project context. The preference for CAD/BIM skills points towards the company's potential adoption of modern design technologies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documented case studies demonstrating successful management of complex residential building designs from concept to completion, highlighting problem-solving and risk mitigation strategies.
• Examples of project-specific design programs developed and managed, showcasing timeline adherence and efficiency.
• Evidence of value engineering initiatives implemented, with clear articulation of cost savings and buildability improvements.
• Samples of coordinated design information packages (e.g., drawings, specifications, schedules) that illustrate a thorough understanding of cross-disciplinary integration.
• Demonstrations of how compliance with building regulations and health & safety legislation (including CDM and the Building Safety Act) was ensured and documented.

Process Documentation:

• Clear examples of workflow design for managing design consultants and subcontractors, including procurement and performance monitoring.
• Methodologies for conducting technical appraisals of design information and assessing contractor proposals.
• Protocols for managing the flow of information, document control, and RFI responses within project lifecycles.
• Frameworks for establishing and managing design scoping for surveys and investigative works.
• Processes for managing change control and variations impacting design, program, and cost.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager, a portfolio is essential for substantiating experience. It should highlight not just the successful completion of projects, but the candidate's strategic approach to design management, their ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, and their capacity to drive efficiency and cost-effectiveness through meticulous process management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Design Manager with 10+ years of experience in London, the estimated salary range is £70,000 - £95,000 per annum. This estimate considers the complexity of projects, the critical nature of the role, and the high cost of living in London.

Benefits:

• Company pension scheme with competitive employer contributions.
• Generous annual leave allowance, with potential for additional days based on service.
• Professional development opportunities, including funding for relevant training, certifications, and membership fees.
• Health and wellbeing programs, potentially including private medical insurance and access to employee assistance programs.
• Opportunities to work on high-profile, complex infrastructure projects that contribute to community development.
• Company car or car allowance, given the travel requirements for site visits and client meetings.
• Potential for performance-related bonuses or incentives.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically around 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.
• Flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines and attend site meetings or urgent coordination workshops, potentially involving occasional extended hours or weekend work, which would typically be compensated or managed through lieu time.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for senior roles in construction design management within the London area. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and the final negotiation. The benefits package is inferred from standard offerings in the UK construction sector for senior positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure Development (Utility and Social Infrastructure sectors). Company Size: United Infrastructure is a dynamic and rapidly expanding business, suggesting a growth-oriented environment. While exact numbers aren't provided, the scale of "critical infrastructure projects" implies a significant organizational footprint. Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly mentioned, the rebranding from "United Living" to "United Infrastructure" indicates a strategic evolution and expansion of services, suggesting a forward-thinking and adaptable organization.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will likely lead a dedicated design team, potentially comprising design coordinators, technical specialists, and administrative support.
• This role requires extensive cross-functional collaboration with Commercial, Operations, Construction, and Project Management teams, as well as external consultants, subcontractors, and clients.
• Reporting lines would typically be to a Director of Design, Technical Director, or Operations Director, depending on the organizational structure.

Methodology:

• United Infrastructure emphasizes delivering innovative solutions to complex challenges, suggesting a culture that values creativity and problem-solving.
• The focus on utility and social infrastructure highlights a commitment to essential services and community improvement.
• A strong emphasis on Health and Safety is a core tenet, as is adherence to company values and robust process management.

Company Website: uig.net (derived from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on both utility and social infrastructure signifies a broad impact on the UK's foundational services and communities. The rebranding suggests a company that is strategically evolving and expanding its capabilities. The emphasis on "dynamic and rapidly expanding" points to a potentially fast-paced work environment with opportunities for involvement in significant growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, requiring substantial experience and strategic oversight. It represents a key leadership role within the technical and design functions of the Social Infrastructure pillar.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will report to senior leadership within the Social Infrastructure division (e.g., Director of Design, Technical Director, or Operations Director). They will, in turn, manage and mentor a team of design professionals and coordinate the efforts of external consultants and subcontractors.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on the success of projects by ensuring designs are technically sound, compliant, buildable, and cost-effective. Their role is critical in mitigating risks, optimizing project delivery, and ultimately contributing to the company's profitability and reputation for quality execution in complex projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into a Head of Design, Technical Director, or broader Project Director roles, overseeing larger portfolios or multiple project streams.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific complex project typologies (e.g., high-rise residential, complex refurbishments) or emerging areas like sustainable design and smart building technology.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to leverage design and technical expertise in roles within project management, pre-construction, or strategic development.
• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership and mentoring skills by guiding junior design staff and contributing to the company's talent development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical stepping stone for experienced design professionals aiming for leadership positions in the construction and infrastructure sector. The company's growth trajectory suggests that individuals who excel in this role will have ample opportunities for career advancement and to shape the future of their technical departments.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work arrangement, with a primary base in one of the National Offices, ideally London. This suggests a blend of office-based collaboration and remote working flexibility.

Office Location(s): Primarily London & Surrounding Areas, United Kingdom. The company has national offices, and candidates willing to travel are considered.

Workspace Context:

• The role requires a balance of collaborative work in an office setting (for team meetings, design reviews, stakeholder coordination) and independent work, potentially from home, for focused analysis and program management.
• Access to necessary design software, document management systems, and communication tools will be provided.
• The work environment likely fosters a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and a strong focus on project delivery and technical excellence.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour week, with the understanding that project demands may require flexibility and occasional extended hours to meet critical deadlines, particularly during peak design or construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid" work arrangement is a key aspect, offering a balance between structured office collaboration and personal flexibility. For a Senior Design Manager, this likely means regular office presence for critical meetings and team engagement, with flexibility for focused work. The emphasis on "London based ideally" reflects the importance of proximity to key stakeholders and project hubs.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter, focusing on experience in complex projects, high-rise development, and compliance with UK building safety legislation.
• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion with senior technical leadership (e.g., Technical Director, Head of Design) to assess technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of design management processes. This stage may include hypothetical scenarios related to design coordination or regulatory compliance.
• Case Study Presentation/Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their best work from their portfolio, focusing on complex projects. This will involve detailing their role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved, with a strong emphasis on design strategy, risk mitigation, and process management.
• Cultural Fit/Team Interview: Meeting with potential direct reports, peers, and senior management to assess leadership style, collaboration skills, and alignment with United Infrastructure's values.
• Final Interview: Discussion with senior executive leadership to confirm suitability for the role and discuss overall strategic fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, quantifying achievements where possible (e.g., cost savings through value engineering, reduction in RFIs through better coordination, successful navigation of complex approvals).
• Highlight Complexity: Select case studies that best demonstrate your experience with "Complex Projects" and "High Rise Development," showcasing how you managed intricate design challenges and multi-disciplinary coordination.
• Demonstrate Process Mastery: Explain the design management processes you employed, including how you managed consultants, subcontractors, document control, and change orders.
• Emphasize Compliance: Showcase how you ensured adherence to UK building safety legislation, Building Regulations, and CDM duties.
• Storytelling: Structure your presentation to tell a compelling story about each project, highlighting challenges, your strategic approach, and successful outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to common design management challenges, such as design clashes, scope creep, consultant performance issues, and regulatory hurdles.
• Practice articulating your strategies for risk identification, mitigation, and management throughout the design lifecycle.
• Familiarize yourself with current UK construction legislation, particularly the Building Safety Act and its implications for Principal Designers and Designated Individuals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly vet candidates for a senior role involving significant technical and regulatory responsibility. A strong, well-prepared portfolio that directly addresses the requirements of managing complex, compliant designs is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD, Revit (experience is desirable, indicating a modern approach to design and modeling).
• Document Management Systems: Proficiency with systems for managing drawings, specifications, and project documentation (e.g., Aconex, Procore, SharePoint, or similar).
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools used for scheduling, task management, and progress tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate and interpret reports from document management and project management systems to track design progress, consultant performance, and identify potential issues.
• Data Analysis: Skills in analyzing design data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for value engineering or process improvement.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information impacts commercial and operational functions is key. Familiarity with integrated project delivery platforms that bridge design, procurement, and site execution is beneficial.
• BIM (Building Information Modeling): Knowledge and understanding of BIM processes and standards (desirable), indicating an ability to work with advanced digital design methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in CAD and BIM software, along with robust document and project management systems, is indicative of the technological landscape for this role. The ability to leverage these tools for effective design coordination, information flow, and progress tracking is essential for success.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation and Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages finding new and effective solutions to complex infrastructure challenges.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Strong emphasis on working effectively across departments and with external partners to achieve common goals.
• Health & Safety Excellence: A commitment to maintaining world-class health and safety standards, integrated into all aspects of work.
• Quality and Buildability: Dedication to ensuring designs are not only compliant but also practical, cost-effective, and of high quality for construction.
• Integrity and Respect: Adherence to company policies, procedures, and ethical standards in all dealings.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Engagement: Encouraging active participation and communication from all team members and stakeholders, including consultants, subcontractors, and internal departments.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Using evidence and analysis to inform design decisions and resolve technical issues.
• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of constantly seeking ways to enhance processes, design methodologies, and project outcomes.
• Constructive Feedback: Fostering an environment where feedback is welcomed and used for development and process refinement.

📝 Enhancement Note: United Infrastructure likely values a combination of technical rigor and collaborative spirit. The emphasis on "world-class Health and Safety" and "innovative solutions" suggests a culture that is both safety-conscious and forward-thinking.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Complex Projects: Simultaneously overseeing the design intricacies of several large-scale, high-rise projects, each with unique challenges and stakeholders.
• Navigating Evolving Legislation: Keeping abreast of and ensuring compliance with rapidly changing building safety regulations in the UK, such as the Building Safety Act, and its implications for duty-holder roles.
• Ensuring Design Coordination: Achieving seamless integration of structural, M&E, façade, and interior designs across multiple disciplines and potentially conflicting requirements.
• Balancing Cost, Quality, and Schedule: Delivering designs that are not only compliant and high-quality but also meet strict budgetary and timeline constraints.
• Stakeholder Management: Effectively managing expectations and communication with a diverse range of stakeholders, including clients, regulatory bodies, consultants, and site teams.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Building Safety Training: Deepen expertise in the nuances of the Building Safety Act, Fire Safety Regulations, and related standards.
• BIM Specialization: Develop advanced skills in BIM management and its application in complex project delivery.
• Leadership Development Programs: Enhance skills in team management, strategic planning, and executive communication.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Stay current with best practices, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes in the construction and infrastructure sectors.
• Mentorship: Benefit from or provide mentorship within the organization, fostering knowledge transfer and career growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to senior design management roles in complex construction environments. The company's commitment to growth also implies substantial opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement, particularly in areas critical to modern construction practices and regulatory compliance.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed the design of a high-rise residential building that faced significant regulatory challenges. How did you ensure compliance and what was the outcome?" (Focus: Regulatory compliance, problem-solving, high-rise experience).
• "Walk us through your process for coordinating design information between multiple disciplines (structural, M&E, façade) on a complex project. What tools and strategies do you employ?" (Focus: Technical coordination, process management, tool proficiency).
• "How do you approach value engineering? Provide an example of a significant value engineering proposal you championed and its impact on project cost and buildability." (Focus: Financial acumen, innovation, buildability assessment).
• "Discuss your experience fulfilling the Principal Designer role under CDM regulations. What are the key responsibilities and challenges?" (Focus: CDM compliance, risk management, regulatory knowledge).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about United Infrastructure's work in Social Infrastructure, and how do you see your role contributing to our mission?" (Focus: Company alignment, understanding of sector impact).
• "How would you foster a culture of collaboration and proactive communication within your design team and with external stakeholders?" (Focus: Leadership style, teamwork, communication strategy).
• "Our company places a high emphasis on Health and Safety. How do you integrate safety considerations into the design process from the outset?" (Focus: Safety culture, proactive design).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of your career and then dive into 2-3 key projects that best represent your experience with complex designs, high-rise developments, and regulatory compliance.
• STAR Method: For each project, clearly outline the Situation, Task, Action (your specific contributions and processes), and Result (outcomes, lessons learned).
• Visual Aids: Use high-quality visuals (drawings, renderings, site photos) to illustrate design challenges and solutions.
• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, provide metrics on cost savings, schedule adherence, risk mitigation, or improvements in buildability.
• Tailor to Role: Explicitly connect your experience and portfolio examples to the requirements outlined in the job description, particularly regarding complex projects, building safety, and team leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific, quantifiable examples and thoroughly understanding the company's focus on complex projects and building safety will be critical for success in the interview process. Demonstrating a proactive, solutions-oriented approach is key for a senior role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.
• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your most relevant projects, focusing on complex residential developments and high-rise experience. Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your technical expertise, leadership, and understanding of UK building safety regulations.
• Tailor Your CV: Highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Complex Projects," "High Rise Development," "CDM Principal Designer," "Building Safety Act," "Design Coordination," and "Value Engineering." Quantify your achievements wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Case Study Presentation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, focusing on challenges, your strategic approach, and successful outcomes for your chosen portfolio projects. Be ready to discuss your process for managing design teams and consultants.
• Research United Infrastructure: Understand their work in utility and social infrastructure, their company values, and their commitment to health and safety. Prepare thoughtful questions to demonstrate your engagement and interest.

⚠️ 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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