Senior Design Manager - Water sector

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager - Water Sector

Company: AECOM

Location: Glasgow, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations Management / Design Management (Infrastructure)

Date Posted: March 18, 2026

Experience Level: 7+ Years (Senior Level)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary design teams for critical infrastructure projects within the water sector, ensuring successful project delivery and client satisfaction.

• Drive the growth and development of the Design Management function by mentoring junior staff and consistently demonstrating exceptional value and strategic insight.

• Cultivate and strengthen relationships with internal engineering and design professionals, as well as external stakeholders, to foster collaboration and identify new business opportunities.

• Oversee financial processes, including invoicing and business planning, to ensure operational efficiency and alignment with AECOM's strategic objectives.

• Implement and rigorously adhere to AECOM's established design management procedures, quality standards, and contractual obligations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Design Manager, indicating a significant level of responsibility in managing complex infrastructure projects and teams. The focus on the "Water Sector" and broader infrastructure (power, nuclear, renewables) suggests a need for deep industry knowledge and a strategic approach to operational oversight. The emphasis on client-facing skills and business development points towards a role that blends technical leadership with commercial acumen.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Manage both AECOM internal and external design teams in the successful design and delivery of water, power, nuclear, and renewables infrastructure projects across the UK and internationally.

• Support senior leadership in business development initiatives, team performance reviews, and strategic planning for the Design Management function.

• Act as a key point of contact for clients, fostering strong relationships, understanding their needs, and ensuring high levels of satisfaction through professional service delivery.

• Oversee and manage AECOM's financial processes related to design management projects, including invoicing, budget tracking, and financial reporting.

• Contribute to the ongoing business planning for the Design Management team, continuously reviewing targets and monitoring progress to ensure alignment with company objectives.

• Lead the implementation of comprehensive Design Management Procedures, including but not limited to:

  • Establishing robust communication and information exchange protocols.
  • Overseeing design coordination efforts to ensure seamless integration of all disciplines.
  • Managing the change management process effectively to control scope and mitigate risks.
  • Ensuring adherence to stringent quality management systems and standards.

• Proactively manage design risks and conduct value engineering exercises to optimize project outcomes and cost-effectiveness.

• Liaise with clients and stakeholders to manage statutory approvals and ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements.

• Establish and monitor design schedules and progress using tools like Earned Value Management (EVM) to maintain project timelines and budgets.

• Define project governance, roles, responsibilities, and scopes of work, and effectively manage sub-consultant performance.

• Organize project meetings, facilitate decision-making processes, and ensure clear communication channels are maintained throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of project management, team leadership, financial oversight, and client relationship management, all within the specialized context of infrastructure design. The mention of EVM and specific design management procedures indicates a need for candidates with a strong understanding of structured project delivery methodologies and robust operational controls.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, or a related built environment discipline.

Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in the management of multi-disciplinary design teams within the built environment sector.

• Proven track record of successfully managing and delivering complex infrastructure projects, with a strong emphasis on the water sector.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Expertise in leading and coordinating complex multi-disciplinary design processes for infrastructure projects.

• Team Leadership & Mentoring: Proven ability to manage, motivate, and develop design teams, including mentoring junior design managers.

• Client Relationship Management: Strong client-facing skills, with a focus on understanding client needs and ensuring satisfaction.

• Financial Acumen: Experience in managing project finances, including invoicing, budgeting, and financial reporting.

• Project Delivery Methodologies: Proficiency in established project management frameworks, including understanding of EVM, schedule management, and risk assessment.

• Communication & Stakeholder Management: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders, clients, and regulatory bodies.

• Quality Assurance: Commitment to upholding and implementing high-quality standards in design outputs and processes.

Preferred Skills:

• Business Development: Experience in identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, contributing to revenue growth.

• International Project Experience: Familiarity with managing projects in international contexts.

• Specific Sector Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of the UK water sector, including regulatory frameworks and operational challenges.

• Digital Tools Proficiency: Familiarity with design collaboration platforms and project management software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical expertise in design and infrastructure, strong leadership capabilities, and commercial awareness. The requirement for 7+ years of experience managing multi-disciplinary teams suggests a senior role demanding significant practical experience and a strategic mindset.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Comprehensive examples of infrastructure projects managed, detailing the scope, challenges, your role, and the successful outcomes achieved. Focus on projects within the water sector or similar infrastructure domains.

• Process Improvement Documentation: Evidence of implemented design management procedures, workflow optimizations, or risk mitigation strategies that demonstrably improved efficiency, quality, or cost-effectiveness.

• Client Relationship Management Examples: Documentation or case studies illustrating how you have successfully managed and developed client relationships, leading to repeat business or expanded project scope.

• Financial Management Examples: Demonstrations of your ability to manage project budgets, track financial performance (e.g., using EVM principles), and oversee invoicing processes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Examples of how you have designed, implemented, or refined design workflows to enhance collaboration, streamline information exchange, and improve overall project delivery timelines.

• Implementation & Automation: Documentation showcasing your experience in implementing new design management tools, systems, or processes, and any efforts towards automation within the design lifecycle.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Clear articulation of how you measure the success of design management processes, including key performance indicators (KPIs) used, data analysis methods, and reporting on project performance against contractual obligations.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior operations role like this, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. It should showcase not just what was done, but how it was done, with a focus on process, efficiency, and quantifiable results. The emphasis should be on the candidate's ability to manage complex operational workflows within design management.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on location (Glasgow, UK), experience level (7+ years senior management), and industry (infrastructure consulting), a competitive salary range is estimated between £65,000 - £90,000 per annum.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Working Model: Flexibility to balance office-based and remote work, promoting work-life integration.

• Professional Development: Access to training programs, continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities, and support for professional accreditations.

• Health & Well-being: Comprehensive health insurance, employee assistance programs, and well-being initiatives.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Competitive pension scheme with employer contributions.

• Generous Annual Leave: Ample paid time off to ensure rest and rejuvenation.

• Life Assurance: Financial protection for employees and their families.

• Opportunities for Global Mobility: Potential to work on international projects and gain global experience.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid work model offers flexibility in scheduling, allowing for efficient management of design processes and client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary ranges for senior roles in specialized sectors like water infrastructure consulting in the UK can vary significantly. The provided range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks. AECOM, as a large global firm, is expected to offer a robust benefits package.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting (Global Leader)

Company Size: Large Enterprise (50,000+ employees globally)

Founded: 1910 (AECOM has a long-standing history in engineering and design)

Team Structure:

• The Design Management team likely operates as a specialized unit within a larger business line, such as Buildings & Places or another relevant division (e.g., Water, Power).

• Reporting structure will involve direct oversight from senior leadership within the Design Management function and potentially within the specific sector (e.g., Water sector lead).

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM emphasizes leveraging data and analytics for project planning, risk assessment, and performance monitoring.

• Integrated Project Delivery: A focus on collaborative approaches to design and project execution, breaking down silos between disciplines.

• Digital Innovation: Commitment to leveraging advanced digital tools and technologies for design, collaboration, and project management.

• Sustainability Focus: Strong emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, integrated into project lifecycles.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's global presence and long history suggest a culture that values expertise, innovation, and a commitment to delivering impactful infrastructure. The emphasis on sustainability and digital transformation is key. The "Hybrid Work" model indicates a modern approach to workplace flexibility.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Level

Reporting Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP of Design Management and/or a Sector Lead within AECOM's operational structure.

Operations Impact:

• Directly influences the successful execution and profitability of major infrastructure projects, particularly within the vital water sector.

• Contributes to AECOM's reputation for technical excellence, client satisfaction, and timely project delivery, which are critical for securing future business and maintaining market leadership.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Progression: Potential to advance into Director-level roles, overseeing larger teams, broader portfolios, or specific business units.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise within the water sector or expand into other infrastructure domains managed by AECOM.

• Business Development Leadership: Developing a strong track record can lead to roles with greater responsibility in strategic growth and client acquisition.

• Global Project Exposure: Opportunities to lead or contribute to high-profile international projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career trajectory for a Senior Design Manager at a firm like AECOM is typically one of increasing responsibility, strategic influence, and leadership. Growth is often tied to performance, business development success, and the ability to manage increasingly complex and high-value projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Work Model

Office Location(s):

• Primary Location: Glasgow, UK (177 Bothwell Street)

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: AECOM offices are designed to foster collaboration, with meeting rooms, project spaces, and informal areas. The hybrid model encourages purposeful office visits for team meetings, client engagements, and focused collaborative work.

• Technology & Tools: Access to AECOM's robust IT infrastructure, including advanced design software, project management platforms, and communication tools essential for managing distributed teams and complex projects.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to connect with a diverse range of professionals across engineering, design, project management, and commercial functions, fostering knowledge sharing and professional development.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid model offers flexibility, allowing for adaptable scheduling to manage project demands, client availability, and personal needs, while ensuring core working hours for team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role implies a need for strong self-management and communication skills. The workspace context suggests an environment that supports both independent work and collaborative efforts among a geographically dispersed but interconnected team.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter, focusing on relevant experience in design management, infrastructure projects (especially water sector), and leadership capabilities.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on design management methodologies, project delivery strategies, risk management, and experience with multi-disciplinary teams. Expect questions on how you've handled complex design challenges.

• Leadership & Client Management Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team mentoring capabilities, client relationship management skills, and business development acumen.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their best work, focusing on case studies that demonstrate their impact on project success, process improvements, and client satisfaction.

• Final Interview/Panel: May involve senior leadership from the business line or sector, focusing on strategic fit, cultural alignment, and overall suitability for the senior role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the problems you solved, the actions you took, and the measurable results achieved (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, client satisfaction scores).

• Showcase Process: Detail your approach to design management, including how you established procedures, managed teams, coordinated disciplines, and mitigated risks.

• Highlight Client Engagement: Provide examples of how you managed client expectations, built relationships, and contributed to business growth.

• Tailor to AECOM: Research AECOM's current projects, values, and strategic priorities (e.g., sustainability, digital transformation) and subtly align your examples to demonstrate your understanding and contribution.

• Quantify Achievements: Use numbers and data wherever possible to demonstrate the scale and impact of your contributions.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions related to managing difficult stakeholders, resolving design conflicts, handling project delays, or responding to unexpected project changes.

• Practice articulating your leadership philosophy and how you foster a high-performing team environment.

• Consider how you would approach business development and client engagement for AECOM's water sector services.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior role will be rigorous, focusing not only on technical competence but also on leadership, strategic thinking, and cultural fit. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or AECOM's internal project management systems for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking (including EVM).

• Design Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like BIM 360, Autodesk Construction Cloud, or similar platforms for managing design documents, facilitating communication, and coordinating across disciplines.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data for performance monitoring, risk assessment, and decision-making. Familiarity with Excel for data manipulation and reporting is essential.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating or utilizing dashboards for key performance indicators (KPIs) related to design progress, budget adherence, and quality metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding of CRM principles for client management and business development support is beneficial.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with tools or concepts that can automate routine design management tasks or reporting processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, a Senior Design Manager is expected to be proficient in industry-standard project management and collaboration software. The ability to leverage data for decision-making and reporting is critical.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings, maintaining professionalism in client interactions and project execution.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design and project outcomes, pushing the boundaries of technical capability.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where open communication, knowledge sharing, and mutual support are paramount for achieving collective goals.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to drive efficiency and deliver better project results.

• Sustainability: Integrating environmental responsibility and sustainable practices into project design and delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Inclusive: Actively engaging with all project stakeholders, ensuring diverse perspectives are considered.

• Solution-Oriented: Focusing on identifying and implementing effective solutions to design and project challenges.

• Transparent Communication: Maintaining open and honest communication channels to build trust and manage expectations effectively.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working seamlessly with engineering disciplines, project managers, commercial teams, and clients to ensure alignment and coordinated delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values emphasize integrity, excellence, collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. A Senior Design Manager is expected to embody these values and promote them within their teams and project interactions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Teams: Effectively leading and coordinating design professionals with varied backgrounds, expertise, and working styles across multiple disciplines.

• Complex Project Demands: Navigating the intricacies of large-scale infrastructure projects with tight deadlines, budget constraints, and evolving client requirements.

• Stakeholder Alignment: Balancing the needs and expectations of multiple stakeholders, including clients, regulatory bodies, internal departments, and sub-consultants.

• Adapting to Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with rapidly evolving design technologies, digital tools, and construction methodologies.

• Business Development Pressure: Contributing to the growth of the Design Management team by securing new projects and expanding AECOM's client base.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Training: Access to AECOM's leadership development programs to enhance management and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend leading industry events to stay abreast of trends, network, and gain insights into best practices.

• Mentorship Programs: Participation in or provision of mentorship, fostering personal and professional growth within the organization.

• Advanced Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining relevant professional certifications (e.g., PMP, RICS, ICE) to enhance expertise.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide range of projects across different sectors and geographies, offering continuous learning and skill diversification.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior role in a large consulting firm, requiring strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and adaptability. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering clear paths for career advancement and skill enhancement within AECOM.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully managed a multi-disciplinary design team through a complex infrastructure project. What were the key challenges and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your process, leadership, and problem-solving).

• "How do you ensure quality and compliance with contractual obligations in design deliverables, especially when working with external consultants?" (Highlight your quality management and oversight processes).

• "Walk me through your approach to managing design risk and conducting value engineering exercises." (Demonstrate your proactive risk management and cost optimization strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the water sector, and how do you see your role contributing to our strategic goals?" (Research recent AECOM projects and sustainability initiatives).

• "AECOM values integrity, excellence, and collaboration. Can you provide an example of how you've embodied these values in your previous roles?" (Prepare specific anecdotes that align with AECOM's stated values).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "STAR" Method: Structure your case studies using the Situation, Task, Action, Result framework.

• Quantify Impact: Be ready to present metrics related to budget, schedule, quality, and client satisfaction for your showcased projects.

• Process Focus: Clearly explain the design management processes you implemented or managed.

• Visual Aids: Use slides or visual aids to illustrate project complexity, team structures, and key outcomes.

• Conciseness: Present the most impactful elements of your experience efficiently, respecting the interviewer's time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of design management processes within the infrastructure sector. Highlighting achievements with quantifiable results and aligning with AECOM's values will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the AECOM careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights 2-3 key infrastructure design management projects, emphasizing your leadership role, process improvements, and quantifiable results. Tailor case studies to showcase experience relevant to the water sector and client relationship management.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 7+ years of experience managing multi-disciplinary design teams, your expertise in design management procedures, and any business development achievements. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your responses to common interview questions, focusing on the STAR method for behavioral questions and preparing specific examples of your problem-solving, leadership, and client management skills.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's current projects, values, and strategic objectives, particularly within the water and infrastructure sectors. Understand their commitment to sustainability and digital innovation.

⚠️ 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.