Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Kier

Location: Falmer, England, United Kingdom (Hybrid with some remote working available)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Design Operations

Date Posted: April 30, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the end-to-end engineering design delivery for significant water and wastewater infrastructure projects within Kier's Strategic Development Partnership Framework for Asset Management Period 8 (AMP8).

• Provide essential line management, professional development, and mentoring to a team of Design Managers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and talent growth.

• Drive the implementation of robust design quality procedures and engineering assurance processes, ensuring technical excellence and compliance from project inception through to final handover.

• Champion sustainable design practices and carbon reduction initiatives, integrating environmental enhancement and resilience into all project designs.

• Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering discipline leads, project management teams, and stakeholders to develop innovative, economically sound, and technically superior engineering solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a large-scale infrastructure framework (AMP8) and requires a blend of technical design leadership, people management, and process ownership, indicative of a senior operations-focused engineering management position. The emphasis on quality, assurance, and sustainability points towards a strong need for structured operational oversight.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct the complete engineering design lifecycle for assigned water and wastewater projects, ensuring adherence to scope, budget, and timelines.

• Conduct regular performance reviews, provide constructive feedback, and support the career progression of direct reports within the Design Management team.

• Implement and enforce stringent design quality management systems and engineering assurance protocols, including gate reviews and risk assessments.

• Proactively identify and integrate innovative design solutions, sustainable technologies, and carbon reduction strategies into project plans and execution.

• Facilitate effective communication and collaboration between internal engineering teams, external consultants, and client representatives to ensure alignment and successful project outcomes.

• Manage the development and maintenance of comprehensive design documentation, specifications, and reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with industry standards.

• Support the bidding and tendering process by providing expert input on design feasibility, scope definition, and resource estimation for new projects.

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the design department, leveraging data analytics and lessons learned to optimize workflows and enhance project delivery efficiency.

• Ensure that all designs comply with relevant health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a need for strong operational leadership in managing design processes, team performance, and quality assurance within a complex project framework. This extends beyond traditional design management to encompass operational oversight of the design function.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Chartered Engineer status (e.g., CEng, P.Eng, PE) is mandatory.

Experience:

• Proven track record in engineering design, construction, and management, with a significant portion of experience specifically within the water and wastewater sector.

• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing multi-disciplinary engineering teams.

• Experience working within large-scale infrastructure frameworks or complex project portfolios.

Required Skills:

• Chartered Engineer Status: Essential for demonstrating a high level of technical competence and professional accountability.

• Engineering Design Leadership: Ability to guide and direct complex engineering design processes for water and wastewater systems.

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage design delivery within scope, budget, and schedule constraints.

• Line Management & Mentoring: Experience in leading, developing, and motivating engineering teams.

• Water Sector Expertise: In-depth knowledge of water supply, wastewater treatment processes, and associated infrastructure.

• Design Quality & Assurance: Proficiency in implementing and managing quality control and assurance procedures.

• Sustainable Design Practices: Knowledge of environmental regulations, carbon reduction strategies, and sustainable engineering principles.

• Technical Communication: Ability to articulate complex technical information clearly to diverse audiences.

• Stakeholder Management: Experience in collaborating with internal and external stakeholders.

• Full Valid Driving Licence: Required for occasional travel to project sites and other Kier locations.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Kier's specific project frameworks or similar large-scale infrastructure delivery models.

• Familiarity with advanced design software and simulation tools relevant to water/wastewater engineering.

• Experience in driving innovation and implementing new technologies within design processes.

• Knowledge of contract management and commercial aspects of engineering projects.

• Experience in developing and delivering training programs for design teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Chartered Engineer status and specific water sector experience, combined with line management and quality assurance responsibilities, highlights the operational rigor expected. The "transferable skills" mention suggests an openness to candidates who can demonstrate equivalent experience and leadership capabilities.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 significant engineering design projects within the water or wastewater sector, demonstrating leadership and impact.

• For each project, clearly articulate your role in the design process, the operational challenges faced, and the solutions implemented.

• Quantify achievements with specific metrics related to design efficiency, cost savings, quality improvements, carbon reduction, or project delivery timelines.

• Provide evidence of your experience in implementing and managing design quality procedures and engineering assurance processes.

Process Documentation:

• Prepare to discuss your approach to developing and maintaining robust design process documentation, including workflow mapping, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and design guides.

• Be ready to explain how you ensure design quality and engineering assurance are integrated into every stage of the design lifecycle, from concept to handover.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to leverage design systems and tools to improve efficiency, collaboration, and data management within the design function.

• Be prepared to present case studies that highlight your contribution to driving innovation and sustainable design practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate a deep understanding of operational processes, quality control, team management, and the ability to quantify impact. This is where candidates can showcase their ability to manage complex engineering operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers with Chartered Engineer status and extensive experience in the UK water sector, a competitive salary range is estimated between £65,000 - £85,000 per annum. This estimate considers the seniority of the role, the strategic importance of the AMP8 framework, and the location within the South East of England.

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Hours: Availability of flexible hours and some remote working options to support work-life balance.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, training, and career advancement within Kier.

• Mentoring Opportunities: Access to formal and informal mentoring programs, both as a mentor and a mentee.

• Pension Scheme: Comprehensive company pension scheme.

• Life Assurance: Generous life assurance cover.

• Holiday Entitlement: Competitive annual leave allowance.

• Other Benefits: Potential for company car or car allowance, private medical insurance, and employee assistance programs, which can be discussed during the hiring process.

Working Hours:

Standard working hours are 40 hours per week. There is flexibility available regarding working hours, which can be discussed with the hiring team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on typical UK engineering management roles with Chartered status and responsibilities in the infrastructure sector, adjusted for the specific region and company size. The stated benefits align with those commonly offered by large construction and infrastructure firms.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Kier operates within the Construction and Infrastructure sector, a critical industry focused on building and maintaining essential services and structures. This specific role is within their Water division, which is a significant growth area for the company, managing extensive water and wastewater networks.

Company Size: Kier is a large, publicly listed company with a substantial UK and international presence, employing tens of thousands of people. This size offers stability, extensive resources, and a structured corporate environment.

Founded: Kier was founded in 1899, giving it over a century of experience and a deep-rooted history in the construction and infrastructure industry. This longevity signifies stability and a proven track record.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will be part of the Design team, which is central to Kier's delivery capabilities for the Southern Water AMP8 framework.

• This team likely includes various engineering disciplines, Design Managers, CAD technicians, and potentially environmental specialists.

• The role involves line management responsibility for Design Managers, indicating a hierarchical structure within the design function.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Kier emphasizes data analysis to inform project planning, risk management, and operational efficiency, particularly critical in infrastructure management.

• Process Optimization: A focus on refining workflows, minimizing waste, and enhancing productivity through systematic process improvements.

• Safety & Quality Focus: A deeply ingrained culture of prioritizing health, safety, and the quality of work delivered, essential in the construction and infrastructure sector.

• Collaborative Delivery: Utilizing integrated project teams and cross-functional collaboration to achieve project objectives.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Kier's status as a large, established infrastructure company suggests a formal operational structure with clear processes and a strong emphasis on compliance, safety, and quality. The collaboration with "Jobs for Humanity" highlights a commitment to diversity and inclusion, which is a significant cultural aspect for operations professionals.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior leadership position within the engineering design operations. It moves beyond individual contribution to encompass strategic oversight, team development, and process governance for a critical function within a major infrastructure framework. The focus is on managing the operations of design delivery.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Head of Design, Director of Engineering, or a senior executive within the Kier Water division. They will, in turn, manage a team of Design Managers.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager's role has a direct and significant impact on Kier's ability to successfully deliver the AMP8 framework for Southern Water. Effective design management ensures projects are technically sound, cost-efficient, delivered on time, and meet stringent quality and environmental standards. This directly influences Kier's profitability, reputation, and client relationships.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to roles such as Head of Design, Director of Engineering, or broader operational leadership positions within Kier's Water division or other business units.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of water/wastewater engineering, sustainable design, or project delivery frameworks.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Development through exposure to commercial, contractual, and strategic aspects of large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Mentorship and Training: Access to Kier's extensive learning and development resources, including leadership training, specialized technical courses, and opportunities to mentor junior staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a clear stepping stone into senior operational leadership within the infrastructure sector. The emphasis on line management and strategic oversight of processes indicates a trajectory towards broader operational responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a hybrid model, with primary office locations in Falmer (Brighton), Chatham, and Chichester. This suggests a structured office environment designed for collaboration and focused work, complemented by remote working flexibility.

Office Location(s):

• Falmer, Brighton

• Chatham, Kent

• Chichester, West Sussex

These locations are strategically positioned to serve the Southern Water operational area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices are likely equipped with meeting rooms, project areas, and open-plan spaces designed to facilitate team discussions and collaborative problem-solving.

• Technical Infrastructure: Access to necessary IT infrastructure, design software, and communication tools essential for engineering design and remote collaboration.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with direct reports, peers, and senior leadership, fostering team cohesion and knowledge sharing.

• Site Visits: Occasional travel to project sites will be required, offering exposure to the practical application of design and construction processes.

Work Schedule:

The standard work week is 40 hours. The role offers flexibility, meaning core working hours can be adjusted to accommodate personal needs, provided project deadlines and team collaboration requirements are met. This flexibility is crucial for complex operations roles that may require focused analytical time outside standard hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and multiple office locations indicate a modern work environment that balances the need for in-person collaboration in operations with individual flexibility. This setup supports efficient management of geographically dispersed projects and teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by the recruitment team, likely focusing on Chartered status, water sector experience, and management background.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to assess your technical expertise, leadership style, and alignment with the role's operational responsibilities. Be prepared to discuss your approach to design management, team leadership, and process improvement.

• Technical/Case Study Assessment: You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio or tackle a hypothetical design management challenge. This will evaluate your problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and ability to articulate complex operational scenarios.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential peers, direct reports, and senior stakeholders to evaluate cultural fit, collaboration style, and ability to integrate into the existing team structure.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior director or executive to discuss career aspirations and final alignment with Kier's strategic goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Operations: Organize your portfolio to clearly show the operational flow of your projects. Highlight how you managed design processes from inception to completion.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to showcase your actions and, critically, the measurable results achieved. Focus on metrics related to efficiency, quality, cost savings, safety, and sustainability.

• Demonstrate Leadership: Provide specific examples of your line management, mentoring, and team leadership. Show how you fostered a high-performing and inclusive design operation.

• Process Focus: Be ready to discuss the specific design methodologies, quality assurance protocols, and engineering assurance processes you have implemented and managed.

• Tailor to Kier: Research Kier's recent projects and their stated values (e.g., safety, sustainability, collaboration) and tailor your portfolio presentation to demonstrate alignment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Operational Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing design teams under pressure, resolving technical conflicts, implementing new processes, or driving efficiency improvements in design delivery.

• Strategic Thinking: Be prepared to discuss your vision for modern design operations in the water sector, including how to leverage technology, foster innovation, and ensure sustainability.

• Communication Skills: Practice articulating technical concepts and operational strategies clearly and concisely, as you will need to communicate effectively with a range of audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely heavily scrutinize your operational leadership capabilities, your structured approach to design management, and your ability to demonstrate tangible results through your portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D) for design creation and review.

• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools and workflows, essential for integrated design and project delivery.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management platforms (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for tracking design progress, resources, and deadlines.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in analyzing data from design processes, performance metrics, and project reports. While specific tools aren't listed, an understanding of Excel for data manipulation and potentially BI tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) for dashboard creation would be beneficial.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate comprehensive design reports, quality assurance summaries, and performance dashboards for various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly customer-facing, familiarity with how CRM data influences project scope and client requirements might be useful.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of how to leverage technology to automate repetitive design tasks, streamline approval processes, and improve overall design workflow efficiency.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with enterprise-level document management systems (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex) for organizing and controlling project documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for a Senior Design Manager role in infrastructure involves a blend of specialized design software, project management tools, and collaboration platforms. Emphasis is placed on tools that support process efficiency, data management, and cross-functional collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount commitment to health, safety, and well-being in all operational activities, reflecting Kier's industry-wide responsibility.

• Excellence in Delivery: A drive for high-quality outcomes, continuous improvement, and exceeding client expectations in project execution.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse teams work together effectively, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to achieve common goals.

• Innovation & Sustainability: Encouraging new ideas and approaches that lead to more efficient, environmentally responsible, and future-proof designs.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding high ethical standards in all dealings and treating colleagues, clients, and the public with respect.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expectation to work seamlessly with project managers, construction teams, commercial departments, and external partners, breaking down silos.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent dialogue, constructive feedback, and proactive problem-solving across all levels of the design function and project teams.

• Knowledge Sharing Culture: Promoting the exchange of best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights to elevate the collective capability of the design team and the wider organization.

• Empowerment & Accountability: Empowering team members to take ownership of their work while holding them accountable for delivering high-quality results within defined operational frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Kier's stated values, particularly around safety, excellence, and collaboration, are foundational to successful operations management in the construction and infrastructure sector. The emphasis on diversity and inclusion through their partnership with "Jobs for Humanity" is also a key cultural differentiator.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Projects: Overseeing multiple large-scale, complex water and wastewater design projects simultaneously, each with unique technical, logistical, and stakeholder challenges.

• Driving Innovation in a Traditional Sector: Introducing and embedding new design technologies and sustainable practices within a sector that can sometimes be resistant to change.

• Talent Development & Retention: Attracting, developing, and retaining skilled design professionals in a competitive market, while effectively mentoring junior managers.

• Adapting to Evolving Regulations & Technologies: Keeping pace with changes in environmental regulations, engineering standards, and advancements in design and construction technology.

• Balancing Cost, Quality, and Schedule: The perpetual challenge of optimizing design delivery to meet demanding project constraints while ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Chartered Engineer CPD: Continued Professional Development (CPD) opportunities to maintain Chartered status and stay current with engineering best practices.

• Leadership & Management Training: Access to Kier's extensive leadership development programs, focusing on strategic management, team building, and operational efficiency.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Opportunities to attend relevant industry events, conferences, and technical seminars to network and gain insights into emerging trends.

• Specialized Technical Training: Training in specific areas of water/wastewater engineering, sustainable design, BIM, or advanced project management methodologies.

• Mentorship Programs: Participation in formal mentorship programs, both as a mentee to learn from senior leaders and as a mentor to guide junior talent.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the dynamic and demanding nature of senior operational roles in infrastructure. The growth opportunities emphasize a commitment to continuous learning and career progression within a large, supportive organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design delivery for multiple concurrent infrastructure projects, focusing on quality assurance and risk mitigation." (Prepare to detail your process for oversight, delegation, and risk management within the design operation.)

• "How do you foster innovation and promote the adoption of sustainable design practices within an engineering team, especially when faced with resistance to change?" (Share specific strategies and examples of successful innovation implementation.)

• "Walk me through a time you had to manage a significant design conflict or a major project setback. What was your process for resolving it, and what were the outcomes?" (Use the STAR method, focusing on your leadership and problem-solving approach.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Kier's work in the water sector, and what interests you about this specific role within the AMP8 framework?" (Research Kier's water business, their recent projects, and the significance of AMP8.)

• "How do you align with Kier's core values, particularly regarding safety, collaboration, and integrity, in your day-to-day management of design operations?" (Be ready to provide examples of how you embody these values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Operational Narrative: Frame your portfolio presentation around the operational journey of your projects. Start with the strategic objectives, detail the design processes and management actions, and conclude with the measurable operational results.

• Metrics-Driven: For each project, clearly present the key performance indicators (KPIs) you influenced or achieved. Focus on metrics related to design efficiency, cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, carbon reduction, and safety.

• Leadership Emphasis: Highlight your role in leading teams, mentoring individuals, and managing the overall design operation. Use specific examples to demonstrate your leadership style and impact.

• Concise & Focused: Prepare a presentation that is engaging, concise, and directly addresses the requirements of the Senior Design Manager role. Be ready to answer detailed questions about your process and decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical design knowledge but strong operational leadership, process management, and the ability to drive results in a large-scale project environment. Your portfolio is your primary tool to showcase this.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on Jobs for Humanity.

• Craft a targeted CV: Ensure your CV clearly highlights your Chartered Engineer status, extensive experience in the UK water sector, proven line management capabilities, and accomplishments in engineering design management. Use keywords from the job description naturally.

• Develop your Portfolio: Prepare a concise portfolio that showcases 2-3 key water/wastewater projects. Focus on illustrating your operational leadership, process management, quality assurance, and quantifiable achievements using the STAR method.

• Prepare for Case Studies: Anticipate a technical or operational challenge scenario. Practice articulating your problem-solving process, decision-making criteria, and how you would manage the design operation to achieve the best outcome.

• Research Kier: Understand Kier's current projects, their approach to sustainability and safety, and their values. Be ready to discuss why you are a good fit for their operational culture.

⚠️ 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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