Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: Knights Brown

Location: Ringwood or Maidstone, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design & Engineering Management (Civil Engineering & Infrastructure)

Date Posted: 2026-09-11

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the end-to-end design process for complex civil engineering, marine, coastal, and infrastructure projects, from tender to construction delivery.

• Provide crucial technical leadership and engineering assurance, ensuring all designs are safe, buildable, sustainable, and cost-effective.

• Collaborate extensively with pre-construction and operational teams to integrate design strategy with project execution and client requirements.

• Drive value engineering, innovation, and compliance with health and safety regulations (CDM) to optimize project outcomes and mitigate risks.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the Civil Engineering & Infrastructure sector, focusing on Design Management. The emphasis on "contractor-led design management" and "practical site experience" indicates a hands-on, delivery-oriented approach, distinct from pure consultancy. The target candidate will bridge the gap between design conceptualization and on-site constructability, ensuring technical excellence translates into successful project execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the entire design lifecycle for major civil engineering, marine, coastal, and infrastructure projects, from initial bid support through to final construction delivery.

• Provide expert technical leadership for design and build initiatives, contractor-designed elements, and complex temporary works, ensuring constructability and safety.

• Actively support bid and work-winning teams by developing design strategies, managing consultant appointments, preparing technical submissions, and defining construction methodologies.

• Coordinate and integrate multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring cohesive, buildable, and cost-effective engineering solutions that meet project objectives.

• Ensure all designs rigorously comply with relevant industry standards, client specifications, statutory obligations, and Knights Brown's quality benchmarks.

• Lead comprehensive engineering assurance activities and proactively manage design-related risks throughout the project lifecycle to prevent costly errors and delays.

• Identify and champion value engineering and innovation opportunities to enhance project affordability, performance, and sustainability targets.

• Champion strict compliance with CDM Regulations, proactively identifying and managing design-related health and safety risks to foster a safe working environment.

• Oversee the performance and quality of external consultants and construction partners, ensuring their design outputs meet high standards and project timelines.

• Provide critical technical support to operational teams, assisting them in resolving complex engineering challenges encountered during project delivery.

• Promote a "right-first-time" design quality culture and drive continuous improvement initiatives across all projects.

• Contribute actively to Knights Brown's sustainability objectives, supporting the achievement of environmental commitments, including Goal13 (Climate Action).

• Mentor and develop graduate engineers and junior design staff, fostering their technical growth and contribution to the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on strategic design leadership and hands-on project execution. The emphasis on "bid support," "contractor-led design management," and "resolving technical challenges during project delivery" underscores the need for practical, proactive problem-solving skills, directly linking design decisions to on-site realities and commercial objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Professional certifications or active pursuit thereof, such as Chartered Engineer status, are highly desirable, demonstrating a commitment to industry standards and advanced technical knowledge. Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in design management, with a significant portion dedicated to civil engineering, marine, coastal, or similar infrastructure projects.

• Demonstrated experience within a contractor environment is preferred, though consultancy backgrounds with substantial project delivery exposure will be considered.

• Practical site experience and a deep understanding of constructability, safety, and efficiency in engineering solutions are essential.

• Proven track record of successfully managing design on major infrastructure or civil engineering projects.

• Strong understanding of design and build procurement models and contractor-led design management processes. Required Skills:

• Expert-level design management capabilities across the project lifecycle.

• Proficient coordination of multidisciplinary design teams and external consultants.

• In-depth knowledge of construction methodologies and their implications for design.

• Strong understanding of engineering assurance principles and robust risk management techniques.

• Sound knowledge of CDM Regulations and their application in design management.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

• Commercial awareness, with the ability to balance technical requirements with project budgets and timelines.

• A proactive, solution-focused approach to tackling complex engineering challenges. Preferred Skills:

• Chartered Engineer status (or actively working towards it).

• Specific sector experience within water, energy, coastal, or marine environments.

• Experience with Temporary Works design or coordination.

• Familiarity with NEC-based contract management principles for design elements.

• Knowledge of low-carbon and sustainable design approaches and their implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" years of experience requirement, coupled with the desire for practical site experience and contractor environment background, suggests this role is for a seasoned professional capable of independent leadership and complex problem-solving. The emphasis on CDM Regulations and risk management points to a critical need for safety-conscious and compliance-driven individuals.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable case studies showcasing the successful management of complex design processes from tender to construction, highlighting problem-solving and value engineering.

• Evidence of coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing external consultants to deliver integrated, buildable, and cost-effective solutions.

• Examples of design risk management strategies and engineering assurance activities implemented on past projects.

• Documentation illustrating the identification and realization of value engineering and innovation opportunities that improved project outcomes.

• Projects that clearly demonstrate compliance with CDM Regulations and a proactive approach to health and safety in design. Process Documentation:

• Workflow designs and optimization strategies implemented in previous design management roles.

• Methodologies used for implementing and assuring design quality, including right-first-time approaches.

• Performance analysis and reporting on design outputs, including metrics for efficiency, buildability, and sustainability.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager, the portfolio should not just list projects but clearly articulate the candidate's role in shaping the design process, managing risks, and driving value. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating leadership, technical oversight, and the ability to translate complex engineering challenges into practical, constructible solutions, supported by quantifiable results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Managers in the UK's civil engineering and infrastructure sector, with 10+ years of experience and specific expertise in marine/coastal projects, a competitive salary range is estimated between £65,000 - £85,000 per annum. This estimate considers the seniority of the role, the complexity of projects, and the required technical leadership. Regional variations and specific candidate experience may influence the final offer.

Benefits:

• Flexible and Hybrid Working: Options available to balance office-based collaboration with personal flexibility, depending on individual circumstances and business needs.

• Career Progression: Opportunities for advancement within a growing business that values technical excellence and promotes from within.

• Mentorship Programs: Support for developing future talent, including mentoring graduates and junior engineers, fostering professional growth.

• Unique Project Exposure: Opportunity to work on landmark marine, coastal, river, and infrastructure schemes across the UK, contributing to significant projects.

• Engineering-Led Environment: Collaboration with experienced operational and technical teams that possess a deep understanding of construction.

• Impactful Role: Influence engineering solutions from concept through to construction, driving innovation, buildability, sustainability, and value.

• Comprehensive health, safety, and well-being programs.

• Pension scheme.

• Generous annual leave allowance. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are estimated at 40 hours per week. While predominantly office-based, occasional travel to project sites, client offices, and meetings will be required. Flexible working arrangements can be discussed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for senior engineering management roles in the UK, considering the specified experience level and industry. The benefits package emphasizes professional development, work-life balance, and the opportunity to engage with high-profile projects, aligning with the career aspirations of experienced engineers.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Civil Engineering & Infrastructure, with a strong focus on marine, coastal, river, and general infrastructure projects. Knights Brown operates as an independent contractor, differentiating itself by its integrated approach to delivery.

Company Size: While specific numbers are not provided, the company's independent status and the scope of projects suggest a medium to large enterprise with established teams and operational capacity. The mention of "growing business" implies expansion and opportunity.

Founded: Information not explicitly provided, but the company's established presence in delivering complex projects indicates a history of successful operations and expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will likely be part of a dedicated design or pre-construction team, potentially within the Southern & South East division.

• This role involves close collaboration with operational teams, bid teams, project managers, site engineers, and external consultants.

• Reporting structure likely involves a Head of Design, Technical Director, or Operations Director, with direct leadership of junior engineers and graduates.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core element, requiring seamless integration between design, commercial, and delivery functions. Methodology:

• A strong emphasis on "engineering-led delivery" suggests a culture where technical expertise guides project execution.

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the need for design assurance, risk management, and value engineering.

• Workflow planning and optimization are critical, especially in coordinating multidisciplinary design efforts and ensuring constructability.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely encouraged, particularly in optimizing design processes and leveraging technology for better outcomes.

Company Website: https://careers.knightsbrown.co.uk

📝 Enhancement Note: Knights Brown appears to foster a culture that values practical engineering expertise, collaboration, and a commitment to delivering impactful infrastructure projects. The "engineering-led delivery" and "independent civil engineering contractor" descriptors suggest a company that prioritizes technical competence and direct control over project execution, offering a different dynamic than larger, more diversified firms.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, requiring significant experience and leadership. The role is pivotal in shaping project strategy and ensuring technical viability from inception through completion. It sits at the intersection of design, construction, and commercial interests, demanding a broad understanding of the project lifecycle.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will report to a higher-level technical or operations leader (e.g., Head of Design, Technical Director, Operations Director). They will, in turn, lead and mentor junior design engineers, graduates, and potentially coordinate the efforts of external design consultants. This structure facilitates knowledge transfer and develops future talent within the organization.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a profound impact on project success by ensuring designs are not only technically sound but also safe, buildable, cost-effective, and sustainable. Their role directly influences project profitability, client satisfaction, risk mitigation, and the overall legacy of the infrastructure delivered. They are key to translating strategic client requirements into tangible, successful project outcomes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like marine structures, temporary works, or sustainable design, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to roles such as Principal Design Manager, Technical Director, or Head of Design, with broader strategic and managerial responsibilities.

• Project Portfolio Expansion: Lead design on increasingly complex and high-profile projects, enhancing professional reputation and project management capabilities.

• Professional Development: Pursue further certifications, training, and industry engagement to stay at the forefront of engineering best practices.

• Mentorship: Continue developing leadership skills by actively mentoring junior staff, contributing to the company's talent pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for experienced engineers to transition into leadership positions within a specialized sector. The emphasis on "shaping projects" and "driving innovation" suggests opportunities for individuals who want to influence technical strategy and contribute to the company's growth and project success.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is predominantly office-based, with primary locations in Ringwood or Maidstone. This setup facilitates focused design work, team collaboration, and administrative tasks. The office environment is expected to be professional and conducive to detailed technical work.

Office Location(s):

• Ringwood: 160 Christchurch Rd, Ringwood, BH24 3AR (likely near the New Forest area).

• Maidstone: ME14 5SF (in Kent).

These locations offer access to key project areas and operational hubs within the Southern & South East divisions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role necessitates close interaction with pre-construction, operational, and bid teams, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Regular meetings, design reviews, and workshops will be part of the routine.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard design and project management software, CAD tools, and potentially BIM platforms will be provided. The focus on "engineering-led delivery" implies robust technical resources.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct engagement with experienced engineers, project managers, and senior leadership, facilitating knowledge sharing and professional development.

Work Schedule:

• The standard working hours are approximately 40 per week. While predominantly office-based, occasional travel to project sites, client offices, and meetings is expected. Knights Brown offers flexible and hybrid working arrangements, allowing for a degree of autonomy in managing work-life balance, provided business needs and project demands are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid working model suggests a modern approach to employment, balancing the need for in-person collaboration for complex design and project discussions with the flexibility that many professionals now expect. The office locations are strategically placed to serve key operational regions.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess alignment with core requirements, particularly experience in relevant engineering sectors and design management.

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on engineering principles, design methodologies, risk management, CDM compliance, and experience with contractor-led design. Expect questions on specific project challenges and how they were overcome.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of key projects from a portfolio, emphasizing the candidate's specific contributions, design decisions, value engineering initiatives, and problem-solving approaches. Focus on demonstrating leadership and impact.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and senior management to assess collaboration style, communication skills, leadership potential, and alignment with Knights Brown's values.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to confirm suitability for the role and finalize terms.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or complexity. For each project, clearly outline: the challenge, your specific role and responsibilities, the design solutions implemented, key technical decisions made, how risks were managed, value engineering contributions, and the ultimate project outcome (including quantifiable benefits).

• Focus on Impact: Highlight your leadership in coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing consultants, and ensuring constructability. Use metrics where possible (e.g., cost savings from value engineering, reduction in design queries, safety improvements).

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Be prepared to walk through a complex technical challenge you faced and how your design decisions and management approach led to a successful resolution.

• CDM & Safety: Explicitly show how you integrated CDM regulations and health and safety considerations into the design process.

• Tailor to Knights Brown: Emphasize experience relevant to marine, coastal, river, and infrastructure projects, and demonstrate an understanding of contractor-led design and buildability.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to design conflicts, budget constraints, tight timelines, or unexpected site conditions.

• Prepare to articulate your strategy for managing design risk and ensuring quality assurance in a fast-paced project environment.

• Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely, suitable for both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only technical expertise but also leadership, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates the candidate's impact and hands-on experience in contractor environments will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD packages (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D) for detailed design and drafting.

• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) for integrated design, coordination, and clash detection is highly desirable.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for project planning, scheduling, and progress tracking.

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

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret project data, performance metrics, and cost reports to inform design decisions and identify areas for improvement.

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating clear and concise reports on design progress, risks, and value engineering outcomes for various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary CRM role, understanding how design integrates with commercial and client management aspects is important. Awareness of how design data flows into project management and reporting systems is beneficial.

• Automation within design processes (e.g., parametric design, script-based workflows) may be an advantage. Specialized Software:

• Familiarity with hydraulic modeling software, structural analysis tools, or specific marine/coastal engineering software could be advantageous depending on project specifics.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software isn't listed, a Senior Design Manager in this sector is expected to be proficient with core CAD and BIM tools, alongside project management and document control systems. The ability to leverage technology for efficiency and better design outcomes is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Engineering Excellence: A commitment to high-quality, technically sound design solutions that are buildable and safe.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where teams work together effectively across disciplines and with external partners.

• Integrity & Trust: Conducting business with honesty, transparency, and respect for colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas, embracing new technologies, and constantly seeking ways to enhance processes and project outcomes.

• Safety First: Prioritizing health and safety in all aspects of work, from design conception through to site execution.

• Sustainability: Embedding environmental considerations into design and delivery to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The Senior Design Manager will be a key liaison, bridging the gap between design teams, operational delivery teams, commercial departments, and clients. This requires strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Process Review Culture: Encouraging open feedback on design processes and outcomes to identify lessons learned and implement improvements.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where best practices, technical insights, and project experiences are shared openly among team members to elevate collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Knights Brown emphasizes "straightforward communication and a culture built on trust, respect and shared success." This suggests a pragmatic, results-oriented environment where clear communication and mutual respect are paramount for effective collaboration on complex projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design & Constructability: Ensuring designs are technically robust while remaining practical and cost-effective to build on-site, especially in challenging marine or coastal environments.

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Needs: Navigating the diverse requirements and expectations of clients, regulatory bodies, internal teams, and the public.

• Risk Mitigation in Design: Proactively identifying and managing potential design risks related to safety, environmental impact, and technical feasibility.

• Driving Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies or methodologies in a traditional industry, overcoming potential resistance to change.

• Mentoring and Developing Talent: Effectively guiding junior engineers and graduates to build their skills and contribute meaningfully to projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Opportunities for specialized training in marine engineering, coastal processes, sustainable design, or advanced temporary works.

• Project Leadership Skills: Development in areas such as advanced contract management (e.g., NEC), stakeholder negotiation, and strategic project planning.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in industry events to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in civil engineering and infrastructure.

• Chartered Engineer Support: Continued support and mentorship for those pursuing or maintaining Chartered Engineer status.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining deeper insights into commercial aspects, project finance, and operational delivery through close collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are inherent to large-scale infrastructure projects, requiring a candidate who is adept at problem-solving, strategic thinking, and managing complexity. The growth opportunities are substantial for those seeking to advance their technical and leadership expertise within a specialized and impactful sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting design requirements (e.g., cost vs. performance, constructability vs. aesthetics). How did you resolve it?" (Focus on your decision-making process, stakeholder management, and outcome.)

• "How do you ensure that designs are fully compliant with CDM Regulations and that health and safety risks are proactively managed throughout the design process?" (Highlight your systematic approach, specific actions, and understanding of the regulations.)

• "Walk me through your process for identifying and implementing value engineering opportunities on a major project. Provide a specific example." (Be ready to quantify the benefits achieved.)

• "How do you approach coordinating multidisciplinary design teams, especially when working with external consultants? What are the key challenges and how do you overcome them?" (Emphasize communication, integration, and quality assurance.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Knights Brown and our specific focus on marine, coastal, and infrastructure projects?" (Research their recent projects and company values.)

• "How would you contribute to a culture of 'engineering-led delivery' and 'right-first-time' design quality?" (Relate your past experiences and philosophy.)

• "Describe your experience working in a contractor environment and how that differs from consultancy, if applicable." (Highlight your understanding of site constraints and buildability.)

• "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers and contributing to the development of future talent?" (Showcase your leadership and commitment to team growth.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that best represent your experience in managing complex design processes, particularly those in marine, coastal, or infrastructure sectors.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework. Clearly articulate the project's scope, your specific role, the challenges faced, the actions you took (design decisions, coordination efforts, risk management), and the measurable results (e.g., cost savings, improved buildability, safety achievements).

• Highlight Key Skills: Ensure your presentation explicitly demonstrates your leadership, technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, CDM compliance, value engineering contributions, and stakeholder management skills.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific technical details, design choices, or challenges encountered. Be ready to discuss your thought process and justify your decisions.

• Visual Aids: Use slides with clear diagrams, photos, or key metrics to support your narrative.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical knowledge but also practical application, leadership presence, and a deep understanding of the contractor's perspective on design and delivery. Quantifiable achievements and clear examples of problem-solving are crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Knights Brown careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects and experiences directly relevant to marine, coastal, river, and civil engineering infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on contractor-led design and buildability. Ensure clear articulation of your role in managing design processes from tender to construction.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords such as "Design Management," "Civil Engineering," "Marine," "Coastal," "Infrastructure," "CDM Regulations," "Value Engineering," "Constructability," "Technical Leadership," and "Contractor Environment." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method, focusing on complex challenges, leadership contributions, and successful project outcomes. Prepare specific examples for questions related to CDM compliance, value engineering, and multidisciplinary team coordination.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Knights Brown's recent projects, company values, and their approach to "engineering-led delivery." Understand their market position and how your skills align with their strategic objectives.

⚠️ 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.