Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: SEVERN TRENT

Location: Coventry, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations Management

Date Posted: May 02, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead integrated design teams in the development of engineering solutions for Waste Water Infrastructure projects within the Capital Investment Programme.

• Drive successful project delivery, ensuring adherence to time, budget, and quality standards for the AMP8 programme.

• Champion innovation and continuous improvement across engineering design processes and methodologies.

• Fulfill the responsibilities of a Principal Designer representative, ensuring compliance with CDM regulations.

• Foster a high-performing team environment through strong leadership, coaching, and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership position within operations, specifically focusing on the engineering design phase of critical infrastructure projects. The emphasis on "Capital River Health Enhancement" and "AMP8 programme" indicates a strategic focus on environmental and community impact within the utility sector, requiring robust project and stakeholder management skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Orchestrate and lead multidisciplinary design teams in the conceptualization and detailed development of engineering solutions for wastewater infrastructure.

• Oversee the end-to-end design lifecycle, from initial concept through to procurement and construction readiness, ensuring alignment with project objectives.

• Proactively manage and engage with a diverse range of internal and external stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, contractors, and community groups, to ensure seamless project progression and buy-in.

• Implement and enforce rigorous quality assurance and control processes for all design deliverables, mitigating risks and ensuring compliance with industry standards and Severn Trent's operational requirements.

• Drive the adoption of innovative design techniques, technologies, and sustainable practices to enhance project performance, reduce environmental impact, and optimize operational efficiency.

• Manage project budgets effectively, track expenditures, and implement cost-control measures to ensure financial objectives are met.

• Ensure comprehensive discharge of Principal Designer duties under CDM regulations, overseeing design risk management and safety coordination throughout the project lifecycle.

• Mentor, coach, and develop team members, fostering a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and continuous professional growth within the design function.

• Collaborate closely with procurement and construction teams to ensure designs are constructible, cost-effective, and delivered efficiently.

• Contribute to the strategic planning and development of the Capital Investment Programme, identifying opportunities for process improvement and operational excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic leadership, technical oversight, and people management. For operations professionals, this means demonstrating experience in managing complex projects within regulated environments, a deep understanding of design-for-operations principles, and a proven ability to lead teams through challenging delivery cycles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Degree qualified (desirable) in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Civil, Environmental, Mechanical Engineering) or a related technical field.

Experience: Proven track record of at least 10 years in engineering leadership roles, with substantial experience in managing design projects, particularly within the wastewater or broader utilities infrastructure sector.

Required Skills:

• Extensive experience in leading and managing integrated engineering design teams.

• Strong expertise in solution design and the development of innovative engineering approaches.

• Demonstrated experience in managing projects within the wastewater infrastructure domain.

• Proven ability to carry out the role of Principal Designer representative and discharge duties under CDM regulations.

• Excellent internal and external stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.

• Strong financial acumen with experience in budget management and cost control for capital projects.

• Advanced problem-solving and decision-making skills, particularly when dealing with ambiguity.

• Strategic thinking with the ability to understand and contribute to the wider business agenda.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with asset management principles within the utility sector.

• Knowledge of advanced design tools and technologies relevant to infrastructure projects.

• Familiarity with environmental regulations and sustainability best practices in water management.

• Experience within the AMP8 (Asset Management Period 8) framework or similar regulatory cycles.

• Project management certifications (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "desirable" degree qualification suggests that extensive, relevant experience and proven leadership in design and regulatory compliance can be a strong alternative. Emphasis on CDM regulations and Principal Designer duties is critical for candidates to highlight.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies demonstrating successful leadership of complex engineering design projects from inception to delivery, with a focus on wastewater or related infrastructure.

• Examples of innovative design solutions developed and implemented, showcasing problem-solving capabilities and efficiency improvements.

• Documentation illustrating stakeholder engagement strategies and successful management of diverse stakeholder groups.

• Evidence of managing design budgets and delivering projects within financial constraints, highlighting cost-saving initiatives.

Process Documentation:

• Workflows illustrating the end-to-end design process for infrastructure projects, from requirements gathering to final design approval.

• Documentation related to the implementation and management of Principal Designer duties under CDM regulations, including risk registers and safety plans.

• Examples of how continuous improvement methodologies have been applied to design processes, leading to demonstrable gains in efficiency, quality, or cost.

• Frameworks for team performance management and development within an engineering design context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to showcase their ability to manage complex project lifecycles and demonstrate a structured approach to design, safety, and stakeholder management. Quantifiable achievements in their portfolio will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: While not explicitly stated, for a Senior Design Manager role with 10+ years of experience in the UK utility sector, a competitive salary range is expected to be between £65,000 - £90,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the West Midlands region, considering the company's size and the critical nature of the responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Holiday Entitlement: 28 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, with the flexibility to buy or sell up to 5 additional days per year.

• Annual Bonus Scheme: Potential for an annual bonus of up to £2,250, contingent on company performance.

• Pension Scheme: A leading pension scheme where Severn Trent will match employee contributions up to 15% (when the employee contributes 7.5%), offering significant long-term financial security.

• Sharesave Scheme: An opportunity to purchase Severn Trent Plc shares at a discounted rate, allowing employees to invest in the company's success.

• Training and Development: Dedicated and award-winning training programs available through the 'Academy,' supporting continuous professional growth.

• Electric Vehicle Scheme: A scheme to facilitate the adoption of electric vehicles.

• Retail Offers: Access to various retail discounts and offers.

• Family Friendly Policies: Comprehensive policies to support employees with family responsibilities.

• Volunteering Days: Two paid days per year for employees to engage in voluntary work within the community.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are assumed to be around 40 hours per week, with the role being primarily on-site in Coventry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is a benchmark; candidates should be prepared to discuss their expectations based on their experience and the specific responsibilities of the role. The benefits package is robust, emphasizing long-term financial well-being and employee development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Water and Wastewater Services (Utilities). Severn Trent is a major player in the UK's utility sector, responsible for providing essential water and wastewater services to millions of customers. This industry is heavily regulated and plays a crucial role in public health and environmental protection.

Company Size: Severn Trent is a large, established organization, likely employing thousands of individuals across the UK. As a Top 5% utility company globally for employee engagement and a Top 50 UK Employer on Glassdoor, it suggests a strong focus on its people and workplace culture.

Founded: While the exact founding date isn't provided, Severn Trent has a long history as a water company, with its current form established through various privatizations and consolidations in the UK's water industry. This history implies a stable, experienced, and deeply embedded presence in its operational regions.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the "Capital River Health Enhancement" team, focusing on the AMP8 programme, indicating a specialized unit dedicated to significant infrastructure upgrades and environmental improvements.

• The Senior Design Manager will lead an "integrated team of designers," suggesting a collaborative structure where various design disciplines work closely together.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a "do more, because you care" ethos, suggesting a culture driven by purpose, environmental responsibility, and community impact.

• Expect a data-driven approach, especially concerning asset management and performance metrics, crucial for regulatory compliance and operational efficiency.

• Project delivery likely follows structured methodologies, possibly incorporating Agile principles for iterative design and development, alongside traditional project management frameworks.

• Continuous improvement and innovation are highlighted, indicating a proactive approach to problem-solving and operational enhancement.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be purpose-driven, emphasizing employee engagement, inclusivity, and a commitment to environmental and community well-being. For operations professionals, this means aligning with values that prioritize sustainability and customer service alongside technical excellence.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management position, indicating a role with significant responsibility, strategic input, and leadership over a critical functional area (engineering design for infrastructure). It's a key contributor to the Capital Investment Programme's success.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Head of Design, Director of Capital Delivery, or a similar senior leadership role within the engineering or capital projects division. They will, in turn, manage a team of designers.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and substantial impact on Severn Trent's ability to deliver its AMP8 programme, which is crucial for meeting regulatory obligations, improving environmental outcomes (combating flooding and water pollution), and ensuring the long-term resilience of water and wastewater infrastructure. Successful design management directly translates to project efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and operational reliability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Director-level roles within Capital Delivery, Engineering, or Operations, overseeing larger portfolios or broader functional areas.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of wastewater engineering, environmental solutions, or advanced design technologies.

• Strategic Contribution: Opportunity to influence the long-term capital investment strategy and operational resilience planning for the company.

• Cross-Functional Experience: Potential to gain experience in other facets of the capital delivery lifecycle, such as procurement, construction management, or asset operations.

• Professional Development: Access to ongoing training and development programs, including potential for further certifications or specialized technical training.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, stable utility company, with opportunities for both technical specialization and broader leadership development. The impact on critical infrastructure projects provides a strong foundation for future advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based from "any of our Coventry offices," suggesting a corporate or regional hub environment. This typically implies a professional setting designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Coventry, England. This is a major city in the West Midlands, offering good transport links and amenities. On-site work is expected, facilitating direct team collaboration and access to office resources.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires leading an "integrated team of designers," indicating a workplace that supports teamwork, cross-functional interaction, and the sharing of ideas.

• Tools and Technology: Access to standard office infrastructure, potentially including specialized design software, project management tools, and communication platforms necessary for managing complex engineering projects.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with direct reports, peers, and senior management, fostering strong working relationships and effective communication.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time and on-site, implying a standard working week (likely around 40 hours) with a focus on consistent presence to manage the team and projects effectively. While not explicitly mentioned, the company's emphasis on "family friendly policies" might suggest some flexibility in working arrangements where feasible, though the core requirement is on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Coventry emphasizes the importance of physical presence for team leadership and project oversight, typical for senior roles managing complex, capital-intensive projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of CV and application by HR or a recruitment specialist to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager focusing on leadership experience, technical expertise in design and wastewater infrastructure, and understanding of CDM regulations. This stage will delve into how you've managed teams and projects.

• Technical/Case Study Assessment: Candidates may be asked to present a portfolio of work, discuss specific design challenges they've overcome, or complete a case study related to wastewater infrastructure design or project delivery under regulatory constraints. This assesses problem-solving skills and practical application of knowledge.

• Team/Stakeholder Interaction: An opportunity to meet with key team members or stakeholders (e.g., project managers, construction leads) to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication effectiveness.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader (e.g., Director of Capital Delivery) to finalize the decision, focusing on strategic alignment and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure and Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating specific skill sets (e.g., Leadership, Innovation, Stakeholder Management, CDM Compliance).

• Quantifiable Results: For each project or initiative, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the actions taken, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, environmental improvements, risk reduction).

• Highlight Leadership: Showcase examples of how you've led, mentored, and developed design teams.

• Demonstrate CDM Expertise: Include specific examples of how you've fulfilled Principal Designer duties, managed design risks, and ensured safety compliance.

• Stakeholder Management: Provide examples of successful engagement with diverse stakeholders, highlighting communication strategies and conflict resolution.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects and experiences most relevant to wastewater infrastructure, capital investment programmes, and environmental health.

Challenge Preparation:

• CDM Regulations: Be prepared to discuss your understanding and practical application of CDM 2015 regulations.

• Wastewater Design Principles: Refresh your knowledge of common wastewater treatment processes, network design considerations, and relevant engineering challenges.

• Stakeholder Communication: Practice articulating complex technical information clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare for questions about managing team conflict, motivating underperforming individuals, and fostering a positive team culture.

• Innovation & Problem-Solving: Think of examples where you've introduced new ideas or solved complex design problems, focusing on the process and impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and case studies suggests that candidates should be ready to provide concrete evidence of their past performance and problem-solving abilities, particularly concerning design leadership and regulatory compliance.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard Computer-Aided Design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Bentley MicroStation) for developing detailed engineering drawings and models.

• BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools and workflows (e.g., Revit, Navisworks) for integrated design, collaboration, and clash detection.

• Project Management Software: Experience with project management platforms (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for planning, scheduling, and tracking project progress.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency in using collaborative tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from design simulations, site investigations, and performance monitoring, potentially using tools like Excel for analysis or specialized engineering software outputs.

• Reporting Software: Experience in generating comprehensive design reports, safety documentation, and progress updates using standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design integrates with broader capital investment and asset management systems is beneficial. Experience with systems that manage design approvals, document control, and change management would be advantageous.

• Familiarity with any automation tools used in design workflows (e.g., scripting for CAD, automated report generation) could be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tool requirements are not detailed, a Senior Design Manager in this sector would be expected to be highly proficient in design software (CAD/BIM), project management tools, and collaborative communication platforms. Experience with data analysis for design optimization and reporting is also key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Care and Purpose: A strong emphasis on "doing more because you care" suggests a culture driven by a sense of purpose, responsibility towards the environment, and commitment to serving communities.

• Inclusivity and Diversity: The company actively celebrates individuality and welcomes diverse minds, experiences, and backgrounds, aiming for a workplace where everyone feels valued and can contribute.

• Innovation and Improvement: A forward-thinking mindset is encouraged, with a drive for continuous improvement in processes, solutions, and operational performance.

• Accountability and Ownership: Employees are expected to "show up and get involved," taking ownership of their roles and contributing to something bigger than themselves.

• Collaboration: Working within "integrated teams" and valuing "diverse minds" points to a collaborative approach where teamwork is essential for success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role requires working with "key internal and external stakeholders," implying a collaborative style that bridges departmental divides (design, procurement, construction, operations) and external partners.

• Open Communication: The emphasis on inclusivity and valuing diverse perspectives likely fosters an environment where open dialogue and constructive feedback are encouraged.

• Team Empowerment: Coaching and nurturing team members suggest a leadership style that empowers individuals and fosters a shared responsibility for achieving goals.

• Problem-Solving Focus: The "do more because you care" ethos and the nature of engineering challenges in the utility sector likely promote a collaborative, solution-oriented approach to challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate how their personal values align with Severn Trent's emphasis on care, purpose, inclusivity, and innovation. A collaborative and proactive approach to teamwork will be highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Infrastructure Projects: Managing large-scale, long-term capital projects like those within AMP8 involves significant technical, logistical, and financial complexities.

• Regulatory Environment: The utility sector is highly regulated, requiring strict adherence to standards like CDM, environmental regulations, and performance targets, which can constrain design flexibility.

• Balancing Innovation with Risk: Introducing new designs and technologies while ensuring reliability and safety in critical infrastructure requires careful risk assessment and a balanced approach.

• Stakeholder Management: Navigating the diverse interests and expectations of various stakeholders (internal departments, regulators, public, contractors) can be challenging.

• Team Development and Retention: Leading and motivating a team of skilled designers, particularly in a competitive market, and ensuring continuous skill development to meet evolving project demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of wastewater engineering, environmental technologies, or advanced design methodologies.

• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training programs, mentorship, and opportunities to take on progressively larger leadership roles within the capital delivery framework.

• Industry Best Practices: Staying abreast of evolving industry trends, regulatory changes, and technological advancements through conferences, workshops, and internal knowledge sharing.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining broader experience across different phases of the capital investment lifecycle, from planning and design to construction and operational handover.

• Certifications: Potential for support in obtaining or maintaining relevant professional certifications (e.g., Chartered Engineer status, advanced project management qualifications).

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges inherent in large-scale infrastructure projects but also offers substantial opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and making a tangible positive impact on the environment and communities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a design team through a challenging infrastructure project. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and results).

• "How do you ensure compliance with CDM regulations in the design phase, particularly when acting as Principal Designer representative? Can you provide an example?" (Assesses regulatory knowledge and practical application).

• "How do you foster innovation within a design team while managing project constraints like budget and timeline?" (Tests ability to balance creativity with practical delivery).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Severn Trent and this specific role within our Capital River Health Enhancement team?" (Assesses alignment with company mission and values).

• "How do you align with our company values of 'care,' 'inclusivity,' and 'doing more because you care' in your professional practice?" (Tests cultural fit and understanding of company ethos).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly articulate the context, the problem, your specific role and actions, the solution developed, and the measurable impact (e.g., cost savings, efficiency gains, environmental benefits, risk reduction).

• Focus on Leadership: Emphasize your role in leading the team, making key decisions, and mentoring individuals.

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

• Highlight CDM Compliance: Clearly show how you managed safety and regulatory aspects within your design projects.

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared for questions, encourage discussion, and tailor your presentation to the interviewer's likely interests.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, technical competence in wastewater design and CDM, strong stakeholder management, and alignment with Severn Trent's purpose-driven culture. Concrete examples from experience, supported by a well-structured portfolio, will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Severn Trent careers website.

• Customize Your CV: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in engineering design management, wastewater infrastructure, CDM regulations, and leadership. Use keywords from the job description and emphasize quantifiable achievements.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest projects that showcase your leadership, technical expertise, stakeholder management, and CDM compliance. Be ready to present specific case studies with measurable outcomes.

• Research Severn Trent: Understand the company's mission, values, recent projects, and strategic goals, particularly concerning environmental initiatives and the AMP8 programme.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare thoughtful answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples and demonstrating your problem-solving, leadership, and strategic thinking capabilities. Practice articulating your approach to design challenges and team management.

⚠️ 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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