Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Built Australia

Location: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Management / Construction Operations

Date Posted: August 14, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Provide expert design leadership and independent technical insight across tenders, ECI, and live commercial construction projects.

• Act as a trusted advisor to project teams, offering strategic guidance to strengthen design outcomes and mitigate risks throughout the project lifecycle.

• Review design documentation, identify opportunities for improvement in buildability and project performance, and support informed decision-making.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external consultants to enhance design approaches and contribute to continuous improvement of design management processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is explicitly described as not being embedded within a single project, highlighting a strategic, business-wide advisory function. This suggests a focus on process standardization, best practice dissemination, and high-level risk assessment across the entire Built Australia portfolio. The emphasis on "independent design expertise" and "trusted advisor" points to a senior position requiring strong technical credibility and interpersonal skills to influence project teams.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough reviews of design documentation (architectural, engineering, etc.) at key project stages, providing technical insights and identifying potential risks or areas for enhancement.

• Proactively identify opportunities to improve design outcomes, focusing on buildability, constructability, cost-effectiveness, and overall project performance metrics.

• Support project teams in navigating complex design challenges, facilitating problem-solving sessions, and driving informed decision-making processes.

• Foster strong collaborative relationships with internal project managers, construction teams, and external consultants (architects, engineers, specialist subcontractors) to align on design objectives.

• Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of design management frameworks, processes, and best practices across Built Australia's project portfolio.

• Provide mentorship and guidance to less experienced design professionals within project teams, fostering a culture of design excellence.

• Ensure adherence to National Construction Code (NCC), building codes, legislative requirements, and company design standards across all relevant projects.

• Contribute to tender evaluations by providing expert design input and risk assessments for new project opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibility of "Contribute to continuous improvement of design management processes across the business" indicates a strategic component beyond project-specific tasks. This implies involvement in developing playbooks, standard operating procedures, or training materials for design management within Built Australia, requiring a strong understanding of process optimization and change management within the construction sector.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering (Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical), or a related built environment discipline.

• Post-graduate qualifications or certifications in Design Management, Project Management, or Construction Law are highly advantageous. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in design management, specifically within the commercial construction sector.

• Proven track record of managing design aspects across multiple building typologies (e.g., commercial offices, residential, retail, industrial).

• Experience in providing independent design advisory services or working in a central design governance role.

• Demonstrated experience with various project delivery methods, including tenders, ECI (Early Contractor Involvement), and traditional Design-Bid-Build. Required Skills:

• Design Management: Comprehensive understanding of the design process from concept through to construction documentation and handover.

• Commercial Construction Expertise: In-depth knowledge of construction methodologies, materials, and typical challenges in commercial building projects.

• Technical Documentation Review: Ability to critically assess architectural drawings, engineering specifications, and other technical documentation.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively engage with clients, project teams, consultants, and regulatory bodies.

• Building Codes & Legislation: Deep understanding of the National Construction Code (NCC), Australian Standards, and relevant local building regulations.

• Project Lifecycle Management: Familiarity with all phases of the construction project lifecycle and the role of design within each.

• Buildability & Constructability Analysis: Ability to assess designs for practical construction feasibility and efficiency.

• Risk Management: Proficiency in identifying, assessing, and mitigating design-related risks.

Preferred Skills:

• Mentoring & Leadership: Ability to guide, influence, and mentor project teams and individuals.

• Contractual Knowledge: Understanding of common construction contracts and their implications on design responsibilities.

• Digital Tools Proficiency: Familiarity with BIM (Building Information Modeling) software and collaboration platforms.

• Cost Management Awareness: Understanding of how design decisions impact project budget and value engineering.

• Negotiation & Diplomacy: Skills in constructively challenging and influencing stakeholders in sensitive situations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a "broad, holistic view of projects — beyond a single discipline" and the ability to "influence and challenge constructively, even in complex or sensitive situations" points to a candidate who can think strategically and operate with a high degree of autonomy and gravitas. This is more than just technical oversight; it involves navigating organizational dynamics and driving consensus.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Review Case Studies: Examples showcasing critical analysis of design documentation, highlighting identified issues, proposed solutions, and the positive impact on project outcomes (e.g., reduced RFI's, improved buildability, cost savings).

• Project Lifecycle Experience: Demonstrations of involvement across various project stages, from tender support and ECI to detailed design review and construction phase advisory.

• Systematic Approach: Evidence of a structured methodology for design review, risk assessment, and stakeholder consultation, illustrating a repeatable and effective process.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Case studies detailing complex design challenges encountered and the candidate's approach to facilitating solutions and informed decision-making.

• Process Improvement Contributions: Examples of contributions made to enhancing design management processes, standards, or best practices within previous organizations.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing or contributing to design management plans, checklists, or review templates.

• Documentation illustrating a systematic approach to identifying and managing design risks throughout the project lifecycle.

• Examples of communication protocols or reporting structures used for design-related updates and decision-making.

• Materials demonstrating a focus on continuous improvement, such as lessons learned documentation related to design processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's strategic nature and focus on business-wide improvement, a portfolio demonstrating not just project-level success but also contributions to process development and standardization will be highly valued. The emphasis should be on how the candidate's work has led to systemic improvements in design quality, risk reduction, and project delivery efficiency across multiple projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: AUD $160,000 - $200,000 per annum (estimated)

Explanation of Estimate: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in commercial construction in Sydney, Australia, with 10+ years of experience. This range reflects the strategic nature of the role, the level of responsibility, and the requirement for specialized technical expertise and leadership. Factors influencing placement within the range include the depth and breadth of experience, specific project typologies managed, and demonstrated impact on project outcomes and business processes.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Coverage for medical, dental, and optical needs.

• Superannuation Contributions: Competitive employer contributions above the mandatory rate.

• Professional Development: Support for ongoing training, certifications, and industry conferences related to design management and construction.

• Generous Leave Entitlements: Annual leave, personal/carer's leave, and long-service leave.

• Flexible Work Arrangements: While the role is primarily on-site, Built Australia may offer flexibility where operational needs permit.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and work-related issues.

• Wellbeing Programs: Initiatives focused on physical and mental health.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses tied to individual and company achievements.

Working Hours:

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

• The role requires significant on-site presence to engage with project teams, necessitating adherence to project schedules. Flexibility may be considered for non-project-critical activities, subject to operational requirements and management approval.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on publicly available data for similar roles in Sydney, Australia. It is crucial for candidates to research current market rates for Senior Design Managers in commercial construction in Sydney and be prepared to discuss their salary expectations based on their experience and the specific responsibilities of this role. The benefits package is typical for senior roles in large Australian construction firms.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction & Property Development. Built Australia operates across a broad spectrum of construction projects, including commercial, residential, institutional, and infrastructure. They are known for their commitment to innovation, digital solutions, and sustainable building practices.

Company Size: Over 1,300 employees. This indicates a large, established organization with significant resources, a structured hierarchy, and potential for diverse project exposure. For operations professionals, this size often means more formalized processes, opportunities for specialization, and a robust support network.

Founded: Built Australia was founded in 1998. This provides a history of established expertise and market presence, suggesting stability and a proven track record in the construction industry.

Team Structure:

• Design Management Function: This role operates as a central advisory function, not embedded within a single project. It suggests a dedicated design management team or a group of senior design professionals who provide oversight and expertise across multiple projects.

• Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Design, Chief Operating Officer, or a senior executive responsible for project delivery and technical excellence. They will collaborate closely with Project Directors, Project Managers, and site-based teams.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role demands extensive collaboration with project delivery teams, procurement, legal, finance, and external consultants, including architects, engineers, and specialist contractors.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Built Australia emphasizes using data and digital solutions for smarter, safer, and more efficient outcomes. This role will likely involve analyzing project data related to design performance, buildability, and risk.

• Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement: The company culture fosters innovation and new ways of working. This Senior Design Manager is expected to actively contribute to refining and improving design management processes.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: The emphasis on "pushing each other to achieve exceptional results" and "bringing their strengths together" suggests a collaborative approach to tackling complex challenges, especially in design.

Company Website: https://www.built.com.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's positioning as combining "Tier 1 capability with the agility of private ownership" suggests a dynamic environment where strategic input can lead to swift implementation. The mention of "investing heavily in digital solutions" is a key indicator for operations roles, implying a need for comfort with technology and data.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Management / Principal Advisor. This role represents a senior position within the design and construction operations sphere. It requires a high degree of autonomy, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence decision-making at multiple levels of the organization. The focus is on overarching project success and business process enhancement rather than day-to-day project execution.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will operate as a crucial advisor, likely reporting to a senior executive (e.g., Director of Design, COO, or Head of Project Delivery). They will have a dotted-line reporting or strong collaborative relationship with project-specific leadership, influencing their design direction and risk management.

Operations Impact: The role's primary impact is on improving the quality, efficiency, and risk profile of Built Australia's project portfolio. By providing expert design oversight, the Senior Design Manager directly contributes to:

• Enhanced project outcomes and client satisfaction.

• Reduced project risks, leading to fewer delays and cost overruns.

• Improved buildability and constructability, optimizing site operations.

• Standardization and continuous improvement of design management processes across the business.

• Fostering a culture of design excellence and innovation. Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to lead a dedicated Design Management team or expand responsibilities to oversee broader technical governance functions.

• Strategic Influence: Opportunity to shape company-wide design strategies, standards, and digital transformation initiatives within the construction process.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Exposure to a wide range of building typologies and project scales can broaden expertise across the entire built environment.

• Mentorship Roles: Formal or informal opportunities to mentor junior designers, engineers, and project managers, developing leadership skills.

• Industry Recognition: Potential to represent Built Australia at industry forums or contribute to industry best practice development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's strategic, non-project-embedded nature suggests a career path focused on organizational influence and process leadership rather than pure project management. Growth would likely involve expanding the scope of advisory services or moving into executive roles related to technical operations and strategy.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Built Australia operates with a hybrid model, balancing on-site project engagement with office-based work. The Senior Design Manager role is described as "not embedded within a single project," implying a primary base at one of Built's main offices, likely in Sydney.

Office Location(s): Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Specific office locations within Sydney would need to be confirmed, but it's expected to be a professional corporate office environment conducive to collaboration and strategic planning.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment will likely feature meeting rooms, project rooms, and open-plan areas designed to facilitate interaction and teamwork among design, project management, and other corporate functions.

• Technology & Tools: Access to modern office technology, including high-speed internet, communication platforms, and potentially specialized design software or data analytics tools used by Built Australia.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities to engage with a diverse group of professionals from various disciplines within the construction and corporate sectors, fostering knowledge sharing and a holistic understanding of the business.

Work Schedule: The role requires a standard full-time commitment (approximately 40 hours per week). While there's an emphasis on on-site project engagement, the strategic nature of the role may allow for some flexibility in how and when non-project-critical work is completed, subject to operational needs and manager approval. This flexibility is crucial for effective data analysis, documentation review, and strategic planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" designation is critical. While the role is strategic, the core responsibility involves reviewing documentation and advising project teams, which often necessitates physical presence at project sites or offices to engage directly with stakeholders and understand site-specific constraints.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and cover letter by HR and potentially a senior member of the design or operations team to assess alignment with core requirements.

• First Interview: Typically with the hiring manager (e.g., Director of Design) to discuss experience, technical expertise, and understanding of design management principles within construction.

• Technical/Case Study Interview: This stage will likely involve a detailed discussion of portfolio items and may include a specific case study or problem-solving exercise related to design challenges, buildability, or risk assessment. Candidates will be expected to articulate their thought process and demonstrate strategic decision-making.

• Stakeholder/Panel Interview: Interviews with other key stakeholders, such as Project Directors, Operations Managers, or senior technical leads, to assess collaboration style, influencing ability, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive to discuss strategic alignment and long-term vision for the role within Built Australia.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 strong examples that best represent your experience in design management within commercial construction. Prioritize projects demonstrating complex challenges, innovative solutions, and significant impact.

• Highlight Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your specific role and actions, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, risk reduction, enhanced quality). Use metrics wherever possible.

• Demonstrate Process: Showcase your structured approach to design review, risk identification, and stakeholder engagement. Explain your methodologies and how you adapt them to different project contexts.

• Address NCC & Codes: Be prepared to discuss your expertise in navigating building codes and legislative requirements, perhaps with an example of a complex compliance issue you resolved.

• Showcase Influence: Include examples where you successfully influenced project teams or stakeholders to adopt better design practices or overcome significant design hurdles.

• Tailor to Built: Research Built Australia's recent projects and values. Frame your portfolio examples to align with their focus on innovation, digital solutions, and building better outcomes.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Prepare for questions asking how you would approach specific design challenges (e.g., a significant design conflict discovered late in the project, a client request for a major design change, managing multiple conflicting stakeholder interests).

• Buildability & NCC: Be ready to discuss common buildability issues and how to address them through design, and articulate your approach to ensuring NCC compliance on complex projects.

• Process Improvement Ideas: Think about potential areas for improvement in design management processes within a large construction firm like Built Australia and be ready to articulate your ideas.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "trusted advisor" and "independent insight" nature of the role, expect the interview process to heavily scrutinize your ability to influence without direct authority and to provide clear, actionable, and well-reasoned advice. The portfolio is your primary tool for demonstrating this capability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with enterprise-level project management platforms used in construction (e.g., Procore, Aconex, Oracle Aconex, Microsoft Project) for tracking project progress, documentation, and communication.

• BIM Software: Experience working with or reviewing models from BIM platforms such as Autodesk Revit, Navisworks, or similar, for clash detection, visualization, and design coordination.

• Document Management Systems: Proficiency with systems for storing, organizing, and accessing project documentation (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex DMS, or proprietary systems).

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, modeling, and reporting on design performance, risk assessments, and buildability metrics.

• Data Visualization Tools: Exposure to tools like Power BI or Tableau for creating dashboards and reports that communicate complex design and project data effectively to stakeholders.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear, concise reports summarizing design reviews, risk assessments, and recommendations.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design data integrates with broader project management and client relationship systems may be beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation tools or processes that streamline design review and approval cycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "investing heavily in digital solutions" suggests that proficiency with, or at least a strong aptitude for, digital tools like BIM and project management software is essential. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they leverage technology to enhance design management processes and outcomes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to achieving the highest standards in project outcomes, driven by meticulous design management and rigorous oversight.

• Innovation & Smarter Ways of Working: A forward-thinking approach that embraces new technologies and methodologies to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability in construction.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief that collective effort and diverse perspectives lead to better solutions, fostering an environment where individuals support and challenge each other constructively.

• Ownership & Accountability: Taking personal responsibility for outcomes, driving initiatives forward, and ensuring commitments are met with integrity.

• Practical Problem-Solving: A grounded approach to challenges, focusing on actionable solutions that are practical and effective within the context of construction sites and project constraints.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires seamless integration with project teams, fostering open communication and a shared understanding of design objectives and challenges across different disciplines.

• Constructive Challenge Culture: An environment where questioning and challenging ideas is encouraged, provided it's done respectfully and with the aim of improving outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing & Mentorship: A culture that values the sharing of expertise and experience, with senior members actively mentoring and developing others to elevate the collective capability of the design and operations teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: Built Australia's emphasis on "curiosity, ownership and a willingness to stretch themselves" and valuing "collaboration, practical problem-solving" indicates a culture that rewards proactive individuals who are not afraid to question the status quo and work effectively within a team-oriented structure.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Strategic Oversight with Project Realities: The primary challenge will be providing high-level, independent advice while navigating the day-to-day pressures, conflicting priorities, and established practices of individual project teams.

• Influencing Without Direct Authority: Effectively guiding and influencing project teams and stakeholders who may have differing opinions or established ways of working, requiring strong negotiation and communication skills.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Technologies & Regulations: The construction industry is dynamic, with continuous advancements in digital tools and evolving building codes. Staying current and integrating these into design management practices will be ongoing.

• Managing Diverse Project Typologies: Applying design management expertise effectively across a wide range of building types, each with unique challenges and requirements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Gaining experience across a broad portfolio of construction projects, from commercial towers to residential developments, significantly broadens expertise.

• Digital Transformation Initiatives: Participating in and contributing to Built Australia's investment in digital solutions for construction and design management.

• Leadership & Mentorship Development: Opportunities to refine leadership skills through guiding project teams and potentially mentoring junior staff.

• Industry Best Practices: Staying at the forefront of design management, construction technology, and regulatory changes through continuous learning and engagement with industry trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role's challenge lies in its strategic, cross-project nature. Success will depend on the candidate's ability to build relationships, communicate effectively, and demonstrate tangible value through improved design outcomes and process efficiencies across the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for conducting a comprehensive design review on a complex commercial construction project." (Focus on your systematic approach, key checks, and documentation).

• "How do you balance the need for design innovation with the constraints of budget, schedule, and buildability?" (Highlight your pragmatic approach and ability to find optimal solutions).

• "Walk us through a time you identified a significant design risk or flaw on a project. How did you communicate this, and what was the outcome?" (Emphasize your communication, problem-solving, and risk mitigation skills).

• "How would you approach influencing a project team that is resistant to adopting a new design standard or process you recommend?" (Focus on your stakeholder management, negotiation, and persuasion techniques). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about Built Australia and this specific Senior Design Manager role?" (Research Built's projects, values, and recent news. Align your answer with their focus on innovation and building better outcomes).

• "How do you contribute to a culture of continuous improvement within a design or project delivery team?" (Provide examples of process enhancements you've implemented or suggested).

• "Describe your experience working with diverse teams and stakeholders in the construction industry." (Highlight your collaborative and diplomatic approach). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio example, use a clear STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework. Start with the project context, define the challenge, detail your specific actions, and quantify the results.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify outcomes wherever possible (e.g., "Reduced RFI's by 15%," "Identified cost savings of $50,000," "Mitigated critical structural risk").

• Showcase Your Process: Explain how you achieved the results. Detail your methodologies for design review, risk assessment, and stakeholder engagement.

• Visual Aids: If possible, use high-level visual aids (e.g., simplified diagrams, flowcharts) to explain complex processes or project scopes.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about any aspect of your portfolio, including technical specifics, decision-making rationale, and lessons learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Expect interviewers to probe deeply into your decision-making process and your ability to articulate complex technical and strategic concepts clearly. Demonstrating a proactive, solutions-oriented mindset will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Built Australia careers portal via the provided link.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight experience in commercial construction, design management, NCC compliance, and stakeholder engagement. Quantify achievements and responsibilities with specific metrics and project examples.

• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Clearly articulate your interest in Built Australia, how your skills and experience align with the role's requirements, and what unique value you can bring to their design management function.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your portfolio to showcase 3-5 of your most impactful projects. Focus on case studies demonstrating design review capabilities, problem-solving, buildability improvements, risk mitigation, and contributions to process enhancement. Ensure you can clearly articulate your role and the outcomes achieved.

• Research Built Australia: Familiarize yourself with their recent projects, company values, and approach to innovation and digital solutions. This will be crucial for tailoring your application and preparing for interview questions.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Prepare to discuss your experience using the STAR method and be ready to answer strategic, technical, and behavioral questions. Rehearse presenting your portfolio and discussing your approach to design challenges.

⚠️ 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.