Renewables Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Renewables Design Manager

Company: Galliford Try

Location: Leicestershire, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full time

Category: Construction & Engineering Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-27T07:52:33

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead design activities for renewable energy projects with contract values typically between £0.5m and £5m.

• Manage the entire design lifecycle from project award through to completion, ensuring quality and profitability.

• Oversee multiple site designs within a regional framework, reporting to the EV Framework Manager.

• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards, including CDM 2015 and Principal Designer responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on the operational execution of design processes within the construction and infrastructure sector, specifically for renewable energy projects. The emphasis is on managing design delivery, quality control, and regulatory compliance, aligning closely with the principles of project management and engineering operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Project Management: Take full responsibility for design activities on assigned projects, from award to completion, ensuring efficient development and delivery.

• Client & Stakeholder Management: Manage relationships with clients, subcontractors, project teams, and design consultants to facilitate effective design collaboration and project progression.

• Quality & Profitability: Maintain and maximize the quality of service and profitability for all design activities undertaken.

• Regulatory Compliance: Lead the design process in accordance with the Galliford Try Building Management System, ensuring compliance with CDM 2015, including the Principal Designer role where applicable, and adhering to safety in design principles.

• Risk & Opportunity Management: Identify and mitigate design risks, while also realizing opportunities throughout all stages of a bid or project.

• Consultant & Fee Management: Assist in selecting designers for projects, conduct competency checks, and develop/manage the project fee schedule for consultants.

• Programme & Deliverable Management: Develop design programs in conjunction with the Planner, manage Information Release Schedules, and monitor the progress and quality of design deliverables.

• Statutory & Third-Party Processes: Manage key processes such as Planning applications, Building Control approvals, and BREEAM certifications.

• Site Inspections & Quality Assurance: Conduct site inspections to verify that the as-built product aligns with design criteria and quality standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on end-to-end design lifecycle management within a construction context. Key operational aspects include managing project scope, budget (fee schedules), timelines (programmes, Information Release Schedules), stakeholder communications, and ensuring regulatory adherence, all critical for successful project delivery in the infrastructure sector.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a relevant degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Architecture, or a related field is typically expected for a Design Manager role. Professional qualifications or certifications in project management or specific design disciplines would be advantageous.

Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of experience in design management, project management, or a related engineering/construction role, with a proven track record of managing design activities on projects of varying complexity and value. Experience within the renewables or digital infrastructure sector is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• CDM 2015 Expertise: Comprehensive knowledge of CDM 2015 regulations and practical experience in fulfilling the Principal Designer role.

• Design Management: Proven ability to manage and coordinate design processes, ensuring timely and high-quality deliverables.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Understanding of project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and budget management.

• Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate design-related risks.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with clients, subcontractors, and internal teams.

• Commercial Acumen: Understanding of commercial aspects of projects, including managing design changes and fee schedules.

• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Advanced ability to analyze complex issues, develop solutions, and make informed decisions.

• Buildability & Construction Methodology: Understanding of construction processes and the ability to challenge designs that may not be feasible or efficient.

• Health & Safety Awareness: Strong adherence to health and safety policies and the principle of safety in design.

Preferred Skills:

• BREEAM Accreditation/Knowledge: Familiarity with BREEAM assessment processes and sustainability standards.

• Digital Infrastructure Project Experience: Prior experience with projects in the Digital Infrastructure business unit or similar.

• Advanced Planning & Scheduling Software Proficiency: Experience with tools used for project planning and design coordination.

• Contract Management: Understanding of construction contracts and their implications for design.

• Quality Management Systems: Experience working within established quality management frameworks, such as ISO 9001 or Galliford Try's Building Management System.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a blend of technical design knowledge, regulatory compliance (CDM 2015), project execution capabilities, and strong commercial and communication abilities, all critical for a managerial role overseeing the design phase of construction projects. The preference for specific sector experience highlights the specialized nature of the "Renewables" aspect of the title.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Demonstrable examples of successfully managed design projects, showcasing the candidate's role in planning, execution, and delivery. This should include projects within the specified value range (£0.5m-£5m).

• CDM 2015 Documentation: Evidence of experience in fulfilling the Principal Designer role, including sample risk assessments, safety plans, or design risk management reports.

• Design Programme & Schedule Management: Examples of developed design programs, Information Release Schedules, and progress reports, illustrating the ability to manage timelines and deliverables.

• Stakeholder Communication Artifacts: Samples of communication with clients, subcontractors, or design teams that demonstrate effective engagement and problem resolution.

• Commercial Management Examples: Documentation related to managing design fees, change orders, or cost implications of design decisions.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow Optimization: Evidence of contributing to or implementing improvements in design workflows to enhance efficiency and quality.

• Quality Assurance Processes: Examples of how quality has been assured in previous design roles, including site inspection feedback and adherence to management systems.

• Risk Mitigation Strategies: Documentation outlining the process for identifying, assessing, and mitigating design risks on past projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. The emphasis on CDM 2015, project management documentation, and stakeholder communication artifacts provides tangible evidence of a candidate's operational capabilities in managing the design process from concept to site implementation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Renewables Design Manager with 5-10 years of experience in the UK construction sector, particularly in the East Midlands, the estimated annual salary range is between £55,000 and £75,000. This estimate considers the project values managed (£0.5m-£5m), the level of responsibility (managing multiple projects, Principal Designer role), and the company's status as a leading principal contractor.

Benefits:

• Generous Holiday Entitlement: Increasing with years of service, with an option to purchase additional days.

• Corporate Discounts: Access to a range of discounts on various products and services.

• Cycle to Work Scheme: Encouraging sustainable commuting with tax benefits.

• Comprehensive Pension Plan: A structured retirement savings plan.

• Save as You Earn (SAYE) Share Purchase Scheme: Opportunity to invest in company shares.

• Private Medical Scheme: Optional medical coverage for salaried employees.

• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): Confidential 24/7 support for personal and professional issues.

• Professional Association Membership: Paid annual membership to one relevant professional body.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. The company also promotes Agile Working, offering flexibility in when, where, and how work is performed, which will be discussed during the recruitment process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is based on typical market rates for similar roles in the UK construction industry, factoring in location (Leicestershire), experience level, and the scope of responsibilities. The provided benefits package is standard for a mid-to-senior level position within a large construction firm, with specific emphasis on work-life balance and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Infrastructure, with a specific focus on Digital Infrastructure and Renewable Energy projects. Galliford Try is a leading principal contractor in the UK, involved in building essential facilities and infrastructure for communities.

Company Size: Large (Galliford Try is a significant publicly listed company with thousands of employees across the UK). This size implies structured processes, established career paths, and a wide range of projects and opportunities.

Founded: Galliford Try was founded in 1908, bringing over a century of experience and stability to its operations.

Team Structure:

• Reporting Line: The Renewables Design Manager reports to the EV Framework Manager, indicating a structured hierarchy within a specific business unit (Digital Infrastructure).

• Regional Focus: The role operates within a regional team, managing multiple sites across the UK, suggesting a decentralized operational model with central oversight.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with Planners, Project Managers, site teams, clients, subcontractors, and external consultants (designers, statutory bodies).

Methodology:

• Building Management System: Adherence to Galliford Try's established Building Management System for design processes.

• Safety-First Approach: Strong emphasis on Health & Safety, particularly through CDM 2015 compliance and the Principal Designer role.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Implied through the need for analytical skills and managing design deliverables and progress.

• Quality Management: Focus on maintaining and maximizing service quality and ensuring as-built products meet design criteria.

Company Website: https://www.gallifordtry.co.uk/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights Galliford Try's established position, commitment to safety and quality, and its focus on delivering vital infrastructure. The "Digital Infrastructure" business unit suggests a forward-looking approach, and the "Renewables Design Manager" role is a key operational component within this strategy.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role sits at a Mid-Senior Management level. It requires significant technical expertise in design coordination and regulatory compliance, coupled with strong project management and leadership skills to oversee design activities and manage teams/stakeholders. The responsibility for projects up to £5m and the Principal Designer role indicate a high degree of autonomy and accountability.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to the EV Framework Manager, suggesting a clear line of management within the Digital Infrastructure business unit. This structure allows for focused guidance and performance evaluation by a senior operations leader within the company's framework.

Operations Impact: The Renewables Design Manager directly influences project success by ensuring designs are technically sound, compliant, cost-effective, and delivered on time. Their work is critical for minimizing project risks, optimizing construction processes, and ultimately contributing to Galliford Try's profitability and reputation in the renewable energy sector. Effective design management is foundational to safe and efficient project execution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Management: Progression to managing larger, more complex projects or a portfolio of high-value renewable energy schemes.

• Technical Specialization: Deepening expertise in renewable energy design, sustainable construction, or specific engineering disciplines.

• Leadership Development: Moving into broader management roles within the Digital Infrastructure unit or other business areas, potentially overseeing larger design teams or multiple project functions.

• Operations Strategy: Contributing to the development of Galliford Try's design and construction methodologies, particularly in the growing renewables sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager in a large construction firm like Galliford Try typically involves increasing project scope, team responsibility, and strategic input. The "Renewables" and "Digital Infrastructure" focus suggests opportunities in a growth area of the construction industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid. While the role is based in Leicestershire, it involves travel across multiple sites/projects throughout the UK. This suggests a blend of office-based work for planning, coordination, and reporting, and significant time spent on-site for inspections and stakeholder engagement.

Office Location(s): Primary base in Leicestershire, with travel expected to various project locations across the UK. This requires flexibility and the ability to work independently in different environments.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close interaction with internal teams (design, planning, project management) and external stakeholders (clients, subcontractors, consultants).

• Tools & Technology: Access to relevant design software, project management tools, and Galliford Try's internal Building Management System will be standard.

• On-site Engagement: The need for site inspections means working in active construction environments, requiring adherence to site safety protocols.

Work Schedule: While the standard is 40 hours per week, the hybrid nature and project demands may require flexibility. The company's "Agile Working" program suggests that discussions about work patterns and flexibility are encouraged.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature and travel requirement are key aspects of this role, typical for site-based project management positions in construction. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment that combines office-based strategic work with on-site operational execution.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and cover letter for alignment with core requirements, particularly CDM 2015 experience and design management track record.

• First Interview: Likely with the EV Framework Manager or a senior member of the Digital Infrastructure team. Focus on technical expertise, project experience, understanding of CDM 2015, and problem-solving capabilities. Expect behavioral questions related to stakeholder management and risk mitigation.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of selected case studies from the candidate's portfolio. This is crucial for demonstrating practical experience in managing design processes, regulatory compliance, and project outcomes.

• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a more in-depth discussion, a technical assessment or case study exercise related to design management or CDM compliance, and potentially meeting with other key team members or department heads.

• Final Offer: Subject to satisfactory references and background checks.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight CDM 2015 Experience: Clearly articulate your role and responsibilities as a Principal Designer, showcasing your understanding of risk management and safety in design.

• Showcase Project Lifecycle Management: Present case studies that demonstrate your ability to manage designs from inception through to completion, including challenges faced and solutions implemented.

• Quantify Achievements: Wherever possible, use metrics to illustrate project success (e.g., on-time delivery, cost savings through design optimization, reduction in design-related issues on site).

• Demonstrate Stakeholder Management: Include examples of how you effectively communicated and collaborated with diverse groups, resolving conflicts or driving consensus.

• Tailor to Renewables/Infrastructure: Emphasize any experience relevant to renewable energy projects or digital infrastructure, showcasing an understanding of sector-specific challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• CDM 2015 Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle specific CDM 2015 requirements or potential safety issues on a renewable energy project.

• Design Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions requiring you to outline your approach to resolving design conflicts, managing design changes, or ensuring buildability.

• Stakeholder Communication: Practice articulating complex technical information clearly and concisely, demonstrating how you would engage with different levels of stakeholders.

• Commercial Awareness: Be ready to discuss how design decisions impact project costs and timelines, and how you manage design-related commercial aspects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on assessing practical experience through a portfolio and case studies. Candidates need to demonstrate not only theoretical knowledge but also the ability to apply it in real-world construction project scenarios, with a strong emphasis on safety and regulatory compliance.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency with common CAD (e.g., AutoCAD) and BIM (Building Information Modeling) software (e.g., Revit) is often expected for design coordination.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project scheduling and management tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms for developing and monitoring design programs and Information Release Schedules.

• Galliford Try Building Management System: Specific internal system for managing design processes, quality, and compliance.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Excel: Essential for data analysis, financial tracking, and reporting on design progress and risks.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience with creating or interpreting dashboards for project status, risk levels, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (Potentially): While not explicitly mentioned, interaction with client management systems might be involved.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for document sharing, communication, and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software is not listed, a strong foundation in standard construction project management and design coordination tools is assumed. Familiarity with BIM and internal company management systems will be crucial for operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Doing the right thing, with a strong ethical approach to managing designs and client relationships.

• Collaboration: Working effectively with internal teams, subcontractors, and clients to achieve shared project goals.

• Passion: Commitment to the role and the company's purpose of improving people's lives through infrastructure.

• Excellence: Driving high standards in design quality, safety, and project delivery.

• Lasting Change: Contributing to projects that provide long-term value to communities and stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless integration with planning, project management, and site teams to ensure design alignment with construction realities.

• Proactive Communication: Engaging with stakeholders early and often to identify and resolve issues before they impact project timelines or costs.

• Constructive Challenge: Openness to challenging designs or processes that may not be optimal, fostering an environment of continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Galliford Try's stated values are deeply embedded in their operational approach. For a Design Manager, this translates to a commitment to ethical conduct, teamwork, high performance, and a focus on delivering sustainable value through their work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Multiple Projects: Effectively juggling the demands of several projects simultaneously, each with unique timelines, stakeholders, and technical requirements.

• Design Coordination Complexity: Ensuring seamless integration of various design disciplines (structural, mechanical, electrical, civil) and avoiding clashes or omissions.

• Regulatory Landscape: Staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving health, safety, and environmental regulations (e.g., CDM 2015 updates, sustainability standards).

• Client & Stakeholder Demands: Balancing diverse stakeholder expectations, managing scope creep, and navigating potential conflicts.

• Site-Specific Constraints: Adapting designs to unforeseen site conditions or logistical challenges encountered during construction.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to courses and certifications in renewable energy technologies, advanced BIM, or specific project management methodologies.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend industry events to stay updated on best practices, new technologies, and regulatory changes in construction and renewables.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Galliford Try or to mentor junior design professionals.

• Career Path Development: Structured opportunities for advancement within the Digital Infrastructure business unit or across other Galliford Try divisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dynamic and complex nature of managing design in large-scale construction projects. Growth opportunities are tied to developing specialized expertise and leadership skills within a growing sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe your approach to developing a design program for multiple renewable energy projects simultaneously, ensuring efficient information release and integration with construction schedules." (Focus on process, planning, and risk mitigation).

• Stakeholder Management: "How would you manage a situation where a key subcontractor's design proposal significantly deviates from the project's initial brief and impacts the budget?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and commercial awareness).

• Problem-Solving: "Walk me through a complex design challenge you encountered on a previous project. What was your analytical process, what solutions did you propose, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving methodology and impact).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Values: "Galliford Try values integrity and collaboration. Can you provide an example of how you've upheld these values in a challenging project scenario?" (Focus on aligning personal values with company culture).

• Team Dynamics: "How do you foster a collaborative environment within a design team and ensure effective communication with site teams and external clients?" (Focus on teamwork and communication skills).

• Operations Impact: "How do you measure the success of your design management efforts, beyond just delivering drawings? What metrics do you track to demonstrate value and impact?" (Focus on results orientation and ROI).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structured Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the project's objectives, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges encountered, the solutions implemented, and the tangible results achieved (e.g., time saved, cost efficiencies, safety improvements).

• Visual Aids: Utilize drawings, schedules, or diagrams from your portfolio to illustrate key points, but be mindful of confidentiality.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, present data and metrics to support your claims of success and demonstrate the ROI of your design management efforts.

• Focus on Process: Explain the how – your methodologies for planning, risk assessment, stakeholder engagement, and quality control – not just the what.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical application of skills, especially concerning CDM 2015, project lifecycle management, and stakeholder engagement. The portfolio presentation is a critical component for substantiating claims made during the interview.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Renewables Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Oracle Cloud portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate a portfolio that prominently features case studies demonstrating your experience in design management, CDM 2015 compliance (Principal Designer role), project scheduling, and stakeholder engagement, particularly for projects in the £0.5m-£5m range.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords such as "Renewables," "Design Management," "CDM 2015," "Principal Designer," "Project Management," "Risk Mitigation," and "Stakeholder Engagement." Quantify achievements with specific numbers where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare to discuss your approach to design challenges and your understanding of safety regulations. Rehearse your portfolio presentation for clarity and impact.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Galliford Try's values, recent projects (especially in renewables or digital infrastructure), and their commitment to safety and sustainability. Understand their Building Management System and Agile Working policies.

⚠️ 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.