Senior Design Manager – Governance Assurance Lead

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager – Governance Assurance Lead Company: Mace Location: London, England, United Kingdom Job Type: Full-time, Regular Category: Design Management & Assurance (Construction/Infrastructure Operations) Date Posted: December 09, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years (Senior Level) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the implementation of design governance and assurance frameworks within the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) project portfolio, ensuring adherence to client business, statutory, legal, and contractual obligations.
• Lead multi-disciplinary teams through RIBA Design Stages 2-6, meticulously managing deliverables, timelines, and quality standards to meet complex client requirements.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by analyzing lessons learned, identifying process bottlenecks, and establishing clear escalation pathways for design-related issues.
• Foster a collaborative environment that promotes technical excellence and effective stakeholder engagement across all design disciplines and project teams.
• Act as a key point of contact for design governance and assurance, providing expert advice and strategic oversight to project leads and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title suggests "Design Manager," the core responsibilities and emphasis on governance, assurance, processes, and stakeholder management align closely with operations-focused roles within the construction and infrastructure sectors. This role is about operationalizing design processes and ensuring compliance rather than pure design creation. The "Senior" designation and 10+ years of experience indicate a strategic, leadership-oriented position within the operations framework.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the implementation of the Ministry of Justice (MOJ) design governance, assurance, and process frameworks, ensuring alignment with project objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate and lead multi-disciplinary design teams through RIBA Design Stages 2-6, ensuring timely and quality delivery of all design outputs.
• Conduct rigorous design reviews and assurance checks to guarantee quality, compliance, and client satisfaction, embedding portfolio standards and best practices.
• Develop and refine appropriate processes and tools in collaboration with Technical Assurance leads and Project Management leads to enhance design delivery efficiency and effectiveness.
• Act as the primary escalation point for design-related issues, facilitating structured problem-solving and decision-making to mitigate risks and ensure project continuity.
• Manage weekly multi-disciplinary meetings, setting priorities, resolving escalations, and ensuring clear communication channels for design progress and challenges.
• Oversee the validation of design deliverables, contract documentation, and adherence to established design protocols and client requirements.
• Manage the onboarding process, resource allocation, and team performance for design assurance activities across various project lots (SSHP).
• Support Project Leads by providing expert design advice, facilitating stakeholder engagement, and contributing to comprehensive risk management strategies.
• Drive continuous improvement by reviewing lessons learned, identifying trends, and implementing enhancements to design management processes and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize operational oversight of the design lifecycle, process implementation, and stakeholder management, which are core functions within a GTM or Project Operations context, particularly in large-scale infrastructure projects. The focus on "governance," "assurance," "processes," and "stakeholder engagement" strongly points to an operations-centric role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree-qualified with a strong academic record in a relevant discipline (e.g., Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management).
• Membership in professional bodies such as RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects), RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors), or equivalent, demonstrating a commitment to industry standards and professional development.

Experience:

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience specifically in design assurance and the delivery of complex projects within the construction or infrastructure sectors.
• Proven track record in managing design governance frameworks and implementing robust assurance processes.
• Extensive experience in stakeholder engagement, building strong relationships with diverse internal and external parties.
• Demonstrated success in managing multi-disciplinary teams and coordinating complex project workflows.

Required Skills:

• Design Management Systems: Expertise in utilizing and implementing design management systems for tracking, reporting, and controlling design processes.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Exceptional ability to build rapport, communicate effectively, and manage expectations with a wide range of stakeholders, including clients, design teams, and project managers.
• RIBA Stages & Building Standards: In-depth knowledge of the RIBA Plan of Work stages (Stages 2-6) and comprehensive understanding of relevant building standards and codes.
• NEC Contract Expertise: Familiarity with the NEC (New Engineering Contract) suite of contracts and their implications for design management and delivery.
• Governance & Compliance: Strong understanding of governance principles and the ability to ensure compliance with client requirements, statutory regulations, and contractual obligations.
• Continuous Improvement Methodologies: Experience in implementing and driving continuous improvement initiatives, utilizing feedback loops and lessons learned to optimize processes.
• Technical Excellence: A keen eye for technical detail and the ability to assess the quality and suitability of design solutions.
• Risk Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating risks associated with design processes and project delivery.
• Multi-Disciplinary Coordination: Proven ability to manage and coordinate the work of diverse design disciplines (e.g., structural, mechanical, electrical, architectural).
• Design Assurance: Expertise in performing design reviews, validations, and quality checks to ensure design integrity and client alignment.
• Health & Safety Legislation: Knowledge of relevant health and safety legislation and its application within design and construction processes.
• Resource Allocation & Team Performance: Skills in managing team resources effectively, allocating tasks, and monitoring performance to achieve project goals.
• Client Requirements Management: Ability to interpret and operationalize client requirements into actionable design and delivery plans.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working within or for government bodies, particularly the Ministry of Justice.
• Familiarity with specific project management software and collaboration platforms relevant to large-scale construction projects.
• Experience in developing and implementing training programs for design governance and assurance.
• Knowledge of BIM (Building Information Modeling) standards and implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on RIBA stages, NEC contracts, and specific industry knowledge (MOJ, building standards) signifies a role deeply embedded in the operational execution of construction projects. The breadth of required skills points to a senior role demanding significant operational acumen and cross-functional leadership.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Optimization Case Studies: Evidence of successfully designing, implementing, or refining design governance and assurance processes, demonstrating tangible improvements in efficiency, quality, or compliance.
• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Examples of complex stakeholder engagement scenarios, detailing strategies used to build consensus, resolve conflicts, and achieve project objectives.
• Design Review & Assurance Frameworks: Documentation or examples of frameworks developed or utilized for design reviews, quality assurance, and compliance checks within large projects.
• Risk Mitigation Plans: Case studies showcasing the identification and management of design-related risks, including mitigation strategies and their effectiveness.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Models: Examples of how you have facilitated collaboration between diverse design disciplines and project teams to achieve unified project goals.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience in mapping, documenting, and optimizing design workflows, from initial concept through to detailed design and handover.
• Implementation & Automation: Examples of implementing new processes or leveraging technology to automate aspects of design governance, assurance, or reporting.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Ability to define key performance indicators (KPIs) for design management and assurance, and to analyze data to report on process performance and identify areas for improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on governance and assurance, a portfolio demonstrating structured operational thinking, process design, and measurable outcomes is crucial. The ability to articulate how processes were improved and their impact is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers with 10+ years of experience in London within the construction and infrastructure sector, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between £75,000 - £100,000 per annum. This estimate considers the seniority of the role, the specialized knowledge required (MOJ, NEC, RIBA), and the cost of living in London.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Pension Scheme: Generous employer contributions to a company pension plan.
• Life Assurance: Financial protection for your beneficiaries.
• Generous Annual Leave: A competitive allowance for paid time off, plus public holidays.
• Professional Development: Support for further training, certifications, and conferences relevant to design management, governance, and assurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Encouraging sustainable commuting options.
• Employee Referral Scheme: Incentives for recommending qualified candidates.
• Potential for Bonuses: Performance-related bonuses may be available.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.
• The role is described as Hybrid, suggesting a blend of on-site work in London and remote working flexibility. Specific days in the office may be determined by project needs and team collaboration requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on typical senior-level roles in London's construction/infrastructure sector, considering the specialized nature of governance and assurance. Benefits are standard for large professional services firms in the UK.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, Consultancy, Infrastructure Development. Mace operates at the intersection of construction expertise and consultancy, enabling them to deliver complex projects and unlock potential for clients across various sectors. Company Size: Mace is a large global company, typically employing over 6,000 people worldwide, indicating a structured organizational environment with established processes and a significant market presence. Founded: Mace was founded in 1990, bringing over three decades of experience and a strong reputation in the industry.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role sits within a broader operations or project delivery framework, likely closely aligned with the Technical Assurance lead and wider project management teams.
• Reporting: This Senior Manager will likely report to a Director or Head of Design Management/Assurance, with direct management responsibilities for a team of design professionals and coordinators.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role necessitates deep collaboration with various design disciplines (architectural, structural, MEP, etc.), project managers, client representatives (MOJ), and potentially commercial and risk management teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Assurance: Emphasis on using data and defined metrics to validate deliverables and assess compliance.
• Process Standardization: Implementing and enforcing standardized design governance and assurance processes across the MOJ portfolio.
• Collaborative Problem-Solving: Fostering a culture where teams work together to identify and resolve design challenges efficiently.
• Continuous Improvement: Actively seeking feedback and lessons learned to refine methodologies and enhance delivery outcomes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Mace's culture is built on values emphasizing safety, client focus, integrity, and opportunity. For an operations role, this translates to a structured, process-oriented environment with a strong emphasis on delivering client promises and ensuring safe, compliant project execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management position, indicating a role responsible for significant operational oversight, strategic implementation of governance frameworks, and team leadership within a specific project portfolio (MOJ). It requires a blend of technical understanding and strong operational/management skills.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within Mace's project delivery or technical assurance functions. They will manage a team of design professionals and coordinators, influencing design outcomes across multiple project lots.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the successful delivery of Ministry of Justice projects by ensuring design quality, compliance, and adherence to contractual requirements. Effective governance and assurance minimize project risks, control costs, and ensure the final product meets client expectations, thereby contributing to Mace's reputation and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into roles with broader portfolio responsibility, such as Head of Design Assurance, Director of Project Delivery, or similar leadership positions within Mace.
• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of design governance, risk management, or contract administration within complex infrastructure projects.
• Industry Influence: Contribute to the development of industry best practices in design assurance and governance through Mace's consultancy arm.
• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor and develop junior design managers and technical staff, fostering the next generation of operations leaders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role represents a significant step in a career focused on the operational aspects of construction and infrastructure project delivery, offering clear pathways for advancement into strategic leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working model, combining remote work with a significant presence in the London office for collaboration and client engagement. Office Location(s): Primarily based in London, England, with potential for project-specific site visits as required. The office environment is expected to be professional and collaborative, supporting a large workforce engaged in diverse projects.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The London office likely serves as a hub for client meetings, team coordination, and strategic planning sessions.
• Operational Tools: Access to Mace's standard suite of project management, collaboration, and design software will be provided.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with project teams, senior management, and client representatives, fostering a dynamic work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Standard 40-hour work week, with flexibility expected to meet project deadlines and client demands.
• The hybrid arrangement allows for a balance between focused individual work and in-person collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role aligns with modern workplace expectations, balancing operational efficiency with employee well-being and flexibility.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: Review of CV and application form by HR/Recruitment to assess core qualifications and experience.
2. Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion focused on your experience in design management, governance, assurance, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. Expect questions about your approach to implementing processes and managing complex projects.
3. Technical/Panel Interview: This stage may involve a panel of stakeholders (e.g., Technical Assurance Lead, Project Director, MOJ representative) to assess your in-depth knowledge of RIBA stages, NEC contracts, building standards, and your ability to handle complex design challenges.
4. Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to prepare and present a case study demonstrating your experience in a relevant area, such as implementing a design governance framework, resolving a complex design issue, or managing a challenging stakeholder situation.
5. Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic alignment, and overall suitability for the role and Mace.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by functional area (governance, assurance, stakeholder management).
• Quantify Achievements: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, and the measurable impact (e.g., % reduction in design errors, % improvement in schedule adherence, successful client sign-off).
• Demonstrate Process Thinking: Highlight your ability to design, implement, and refine operational processes. Show how you ensure compliance and drive continuous improvement.
• Showcase Stakeholder Management: Include examples that illustrate your ability to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes, build consensus, and manage differing priorities.
• Tailor to Mace & MOJ: If possible, subtly tailor your presentation to reflect an understanding of Mace's values and the specific challenges of working within the MOJ environment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Design Exercise: Be prepared to be asked to outline how you would approach developing or improving a design governance process for a new project or within a specific context.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Practice responding to hypothetical design challenges, focusing on your systematic approach to analysis, solution development, and stakeholder communication.
• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing difficult stakeholders or resolving conflicts within multi-disciplinary teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only technical expertise but also operational leadership, problem-solving skills, and the ability to implement and manage complex processes within a structured client environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with industry-standard project management platforms (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project, Aconex, Procore) for planning, tracking, and reporting on project progress.
• Design Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools facilitating multi-disciplinary design collaboration and document management (e.g., BIM 360, Bentley ProjectWise, Trimble Connect).
• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with robust document control systems to manage contracts, specifications, drawings, and reports.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word, Excel (for data analysis, reporting, and tracking), PowerPoint (for presentations), and Outlook (for communication).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to utilize Excel or more advanced analytics tools to analyze design data, identify trends, and generate performance reports.
• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating and interpreting dashboards that visualize project status, compliance metrics, and key performance indicators.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM sales role, understanding how design information interfaces with broader project management and client relationship systems may be beneficial.
• Familiarity with workflow automation tools could be an advantage for streamlining governance and assurance processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools critical for managing complex projects, facilitating collaboration, and ensuring rigorous documentation and reporting in a construction operations context.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First - Going Home Safe and Well: A paramount value, meaning a commitment to safe design practices, risk mitigation in design processes, and promoting wellbeing within the team.
• Client Focus - Deliver on Our Promise: A dedication to understanding and meeting the Ministry of Justice's specific requirements, ensuring the quality and integrity of design deliverables, and fostering long-term client relationships.
• Integrity - Always Do the Right Thing: Upholding ethical standards in all design governance and assurance activities, ensuring compliance with legal and contractual obligations, and influencing positive outcomes.
• Create Opportunity - For Our People to Excel: Fostering a culture of continuous improvement, professional development, and knowledge sharing within the design management team, encouraging individuals to enhance their skills and contribute to overall success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A proactive approach to integrating design management with other project functions (e.g., project management, technical assurance, commercial) to ensure holistic project delivery.
• Process Review & Feedback: Encouraging open communication and feedback loops for continuous refinement of design processes and assurance methods.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the team and wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are deeply embedded in its operations, guiding how teams interact, make decisions, and execute projects, particularly in high-stakes environments like government infrastructure.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating MOJ Requirements: Understanding and effectively implementing the specific governance and assurance protocols mandated by the Ministry of Justice, which can be complex and rigorous.
• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of multiple stakeholders, including client representatives, various design disciplines, and internal project teams.
• Ensuring Design Quality Across Multiple Projects: Maintaining consistent high standards of design quality and governance across a portfolio of projects, each with unique requirements and challenges.
• Adapting to Evolving Standards: Staying abreast of changes in building codes, health and safety legislation, and industry best practices to ensure ongoing compliance and effectiveness.
• Driving Continuous Improvement: Overcoming inertia and resistance to change when implementing new processes or improvements within established project structures.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Governance & Assurance Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of project governance, risk management, and quality assurance frameworks.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading industry events focused on construction, design management, and public sector projects.
• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior leaders within Mace for guidance and career development.
• Leadership Development: Formal training and practical experience in team leadership, strategic planning, and operational management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior operations roles in large-scale, regulated environments, offering significant opportunities for professional growth and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to implementing a robust design governance framework for a large-scale government project like those within the MOJ." (Focus on structured methodology, stakeholder buy-in, and key controls.)
• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication between diverse design disciplines, especially when conflicts arise?" (Highlight communication strategies, mediation skills, and focus on project objectives.)
• "Walk us through a time you identified a significant risk in a design process and how you managed it to a positive outcome." (Use the STAR method, emphasizing proactive identification, mitigation steps, and impact.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Mace and our values, and how do you see them aligning with your professional approach?" (Research Mace's recent projects, values, and sustainability initiatives.)
• "How do you foster a culture of continuous improvement within a project team?" (Discuss methods for gathering feedback, implementing lessons learned, and encouraging innovation.)
• "How do you measure the effectiveness of design assurance processes?" (Prepare to discuss KPIs, reporting mechanisms, and impact on project outcomes.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise & Impactful: Focus on 2-3 key projects or initiatives that best demonstrate your core strengths in design governance, assurance, and stakeholder management.
• Problem-Solution-Result: Clearly articulate the challenge, your specific actions, and the quantifiable results for each case study. Use visuals if appropriate.
• Process Focus: Emphasize how you designed, implemented, or improved operational processes and their impact on project success.
• Stakeholder Dynamics: Illustrate your ability to manage complex relationships and achieve buy-in from diverse groups.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a systematic, process-driven approach to managing design operations, coupled with strong leadership and stakeholder management skills, tailored to the context of large public sector projects.

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📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Mace Careers portal.
• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in design management, governance, assurance, stakeholder engagement, and project delivery within the construction/infrastructure sector. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Assemble a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 key achievements. Focus on process improvements, successful stakeholder management, and quantifiable results in design assurance. Be ready to present this during the interview process.
• Research Mace & MOJ: Understand Mace's values, recent projects, and the specific context of working with the Ministry of Justice. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.
• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare answers to common interview questions related to design management, operational processes, risk mitigation, and team leadership, using the STAR method for behavioral questions.

⚠️ 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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