Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: United Infrastructure

Location: Lingley Mere, Warrington, Cheshire, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Management & Technical Operations

Date Posted: 2026-06-02T14:03:23.106

Experience Level: 5-10 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and lead all technical and design processes for critical infrastructure projects, ensuring adherence to budget and project timelines.

• Manage external consultants and subcontractors throughout the design, procurement, and construction phases, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective, and buildable designs.

• Ensure comprehensive design coordination and compliance with United Infrastructure's requirements, current regulations, and necessary approvals for seamless project execution.

• Act as CDM Principal Designer and Building Regulations Principal Design role (Designated Individual), ensuring all legal and safety standards are met.

• Drive value engineering opportunities and assess design risks to optimize project outcomes and maximize revenue generation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the technical integrity and successful delivery of complex infrastructure projects. The Senior Design Manager will be instrumental in bridging the gap between initial design concepts and on-site execution, requiring a deep understanding of both regulatory frameworks and practical construction methodologies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead technical and design processes, including design teams and subcontractors, throughout the project lifecycle, monitoring progress against program and budget.

• Manage the technical design of schemes to meet company targets, focusing on revenue generation through quality, cost-effectiveness, and buildability.

• Review bids, conduct technical appraisals of design information, assess compliance, consultant fees, and produce detailed design programs.

• Identify value engineering opportunities, assess design risks, and manage consultant fee expenditures and invoicing.

• Produce, develop, control, and manage project-specific design programs, providing regular progress reporting to stakeholders.

• Undertake thorough reviews and interrogations of consultant and subcontractor designs for compliance with legislation, system literature, planning consent, buildability, and overall accuracy.

• Manage and coordinate external consultants, driving high standards and ensuring delivery within time, quality, budget, and technical constraints.

• Establish required scoping for survey and investigative works, and manage subcontractor and supplier design approvals.

• Oversee document control, including registration, distribution, and workflow processing on the document management system.

• Manage the flow of information to Commercial, Operations, and Client teams, and chair design package presentations.

• Monitor changes from the client, consultants, and construction teams, managing the change control process for variations.

• Collate all required information and liaise with Planning Authorities and Building Control for submissions and approvals.

• Undertake site visits, attend site meetings, and monitor work executed on-site against design specifications.

• Manage, investigate, and respond promptly to Requests for Information (RFIs) from the site team and subcontractors.

• Oversee and participate in the collation of handover information, including golden thread documentation, H&S files, O&M manuals, and resident packs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach to design management, requiring not only strategic oversight but also active engagement in detailed technical reviews, coordination, and problem-solving. The emphasis on compliance with CDM and Building Regulations, alongside specific building safety legislation, indicates a highly regulated project environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum Level 4 (HNC/NVQ4 etc.) Architectural qualification, or equivalent design, technical, and/or construction-based qualification.

Experience:

• Proven track record of successfully managing all aspects of the design and technical process in relation to residential buildings.

• High-rise development experience is essential.

• Minimum of 5-10 years of experience in design management or a closely related technical role within the construction industry.

Required Skills:

• Thorough and proactive management style.

• Capability to lead and coordinate with managers across a wider team.

• Ability to prioritize, delegate, negotiate, motivate, and communicate effectively.

• Analytical approach with a keen eye for detail.

• Strong leadership skills, including assertiveness, decisiveness, flexibility, and effective time management.

• Ability to review drawings and identify buildability and technical issues.

• Effective people management of direct reports, including goal setting and performance management.

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

• Effective communication with all levels of management and project teams, both internal and external.

• Up-to-date construction industry knowledge, including legislation and procedures.

• Valid driving licence.

• Knowledge of methodology and sequencing process in delivering a construction project, including design and pre-construction activities.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Understanding of the Building Safety legislative framework, including the Building Safety Act, Building Regulations (dutyholder roles & competency requirements), and HRB Procedure Regulations.

Preferred Skills:

• Passion for construction and customer satisfaction, with a focus on high standards and excellence.

• Proven track record of design requirements for procurement and construction purposes.

• In-depth knowledge of contractual requirements, section agreements, and utility application processes.

• Tenacious and driven personality.

• Strong practical knowledge of construction work types, methods, and design solutions.

• Knowledge of PAS9980 fire risk assessments, EWS1s, and FRAEW.

• Temporary works knowledge and experience.

• Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD or Revit).

• Knowledge & understanding of BIM.

• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g., CIOB, CIAT, or RICS).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical expertise, leadership capability, and a strong understanding of regulatory compliance, particularly concerning building safety. The inclusion of specific software like AutoCAD and Revit, along with BIM knowledge, points to a modern approach to design management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Coordination Case Studies: Showcase instances where you successfully coordinated complex design elements across multiple disciplines (structural, MEP, façade, interior) for residential buildings, detailing the process and outcome.

• Regulatory Compliance Examples: Provide examples of how you ensured designs met stringent building regulations, Building Safety Act requirements, and CDM duties, including documentation and approval processes.

• Value Engineering Demonstrations: Include projects where you identified and implemented value engineering solutions that improved cost-effectiveness or buildability without compromising quality or safety.

• Project Programme Management: Present examples of detailed design programs you developed and managed, demonstrating your ability to track progress, report on status, and mitigate delays.

• Risk Mitigation Strategies: Detail how you identified, assessed, and mitigated design-related risks, including buildability issues, contractual conflicts, and compliance gaps.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow Optimization: Document a specific instance where you improved a design workflow process, detailing the initial challenges, the changes implemented, and the resulting efficiency gains or quality improvements.

• Consultant/Subcontractor Management Protocols: Outline your established protocols for procuring, managing, and assessing the performance of external consultants and subcontractor designers, including competency assessment and fee management.

• Information Management Systems: Describe your experience using document management systems (e.g., for registration, distribution, and workflow processing) and how you ensure accurate and timely information exchange.

• Change Control Procedures: Illustrate your process for managing design changes, variations, and RFIs, ensuring they are properly documented, assessed for impact (cost, program, safety), and communicated effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role should demonstrate a systematic approach to design management, with clear evidence of process implementation, regulatory adherence, and successful project delivery. Highlighting experience with specific regulations like the Building Safety Act and CDM is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the Senior Design Manager title, the location in the North West of England (Warrington), and the required experience level (5-10 years), a competitive salary range is anticipated. Based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the UK construction sector, the estimated salary range is £60,000 - £80,000 per annum. This estimate takes into account the seniority of the role, the complexity of infrastructure projects, and the specific responsibilities related to health and safety legislation.

Benefits:

• Pension Scheme: Company matched pension contributions, providing long-term financial security.

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive private medical insurance, covering pre-existing conditions.

• Life Assurance: Generous life assurance cover, offering peace of mind for dependents.

• Holiday Allowance: A competitive annual leave entitlement, typically starting at 25 days per year, plus bank holidays.

• Professional Development: Support for continued professional development, including funding for relevant training, certifications, and membership fees for professional bodies.

• Company Vehicle/Allowance: A company car or car allowance due to the need for site visits and travel.

• Performance Bonus: Potential for an annual performance-related bonus tied to project delivery and company profitability.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and professional well-being.

Working Hours:

Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, given the nature of construction projects and the Senior Design Manager role, flexibility may be required to meet project deadlines, attend site meetings, or address urgent design issues. This could involve occasional early starts, late finishes, or weekend work during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on current market data for Senior Design Managers in the UK construction sector. Benefits are typical for senior roles in this industry, with an emphasis on long-term security and professional growth. The provision of a company vehicle is a common perk for roles requiring significant travel.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: United Infrastructure operates within the critical Utility and Social Infrastructure sectors. This includes designing, building, and maintaining essential services like water, energy (gas), power, and telecoms, as well as undertaking retrofit, refurbishment, and maintenance work for social housing and communities. The company plays a vital role in the UK's essential services and community development.

Company Size: United Infrastructure is described as a "dynamic and rapidly expanding business." While an exact headcount isn't provided, this suggests a company that is likely medium to large in size, with established departments and a growing workforce. This scale implies structured processes, opportunities for advancement, and a significant project pipeline.

Founded: The company was founded at an unspecified date but has rebranded from "United Living" to "United Infrastructure," indicating a strategic evolution and growth trajectory. This rebranding suggests a forward-thinking organization adapting to market demands and expanding its service offerings.

Team Structure:

• Operations & Project Teams: The Senior Design Manager will likely be part of a larger project delivery team, working closely with Operations Managers, Commercial Teams, Site Managers, and Construction Teams.

• Design & Technical Department: This role sits within the design and technical function, potentially leading a team of designers, engineers, and technical coordinators.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Strong collaboration is expected with procurement, commercial, H&S, and client-facing departments to ensure holistic project success. The reporting structure is likely to involve reporting to a Director of Design, Technical Director, or Operations Director.

Methodology:

• Integrated Project Delivery: The company emphasizes delivering innovative solutions, suggesting an approach that integrates design, procurement, and construction phases efficiently.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The responsibilities point towards a need for rigorous technical analysis, risk assessment, and performance monitoring, implying a data-driven approach to design and project management.

• Continuous Improvement: The pursuit of "maximum revenue generated by the quality, cost effectiveness and buildability of the design" and "value engineering opportunities" indicates a culture focused on optimizing processes and outcomes.

Company Website: https://www.uig.net/ (Based on inferred domain)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on critical infrastructure means a strong emphasis on reliability, safety, and regulatory compliance. The "rapidly expanding business" aspect suggests a fast-paced environment with opportunities for individuals who can adapt and contribute to growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management position within the Design and Technical function. It requires significant experience in managing complex residential building projects, a deep understanding of construction methodologies, and the ability to lead teams and influence stakeholders. The role involves strategic oversight of the design process, risk management, and ensuring compliance with critical legislation.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the technical or operations division, such as a Director of Design, Technical Director, or Operations Director. They will, in turn, manage a team of design coordinators, technicians, and potentially external consultants. Collaboration with Commercial Managers, Project Managers, and Site Managers will be integral to their day-to-day activities.

Operations Impact: The Senior Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on project profitability, safety, and timely delivery. Effective design management ensures that projects are technically sound, cost-efficient, and compliant, minimizing risks, reducing rework, and enhancing the company's reputation. Their influence extends to ensuring buildability, which directly affects construction efficiency and program adherence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Director-Level Roles: Progression to roles such as Director of Design, Head of Technical, or a senior operational leadership position within infrastructure projects.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like Building Safety, BIM implementation, or sustainable infrastructure design, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Broader Project Management: Transition into more holistic Project Director roles with P&L responsibility for larger, more complex infrastructure portfolios.

• Strategic Development: Contribute to the company's strategic planning for design and technical processes, influencing future methodologies and technology adoption.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Take on a key role in mentoring junior design staff, developing future talent within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within the infrastructure sector. The emphasis on leadership, regulatory knowledge, and strategic input provides a strong foundation for moving into higher-level management and executive positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Lingley Mere, Warrington office, which serves as a hub for operations and project management. This environment is likely to be professional and collaborative, designed to support the coordination of large-scale infrastructure projects.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at Lingley Mere, Warrington, Cheshire, WA5 3UZ, United Kingdom. This location is accessible within the North West region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office will likely feature meeting rooms, project planning areas, and workstations designed for team collaboration, essential for coordinating with various project stakeholders.

• Technology Enabled: Access to necessary design software (AutoCAD, Revit), document management systems, and communication tools will be standard.

• Project Engagement: While office-based for core management, the role requires regular site visits, necessitating good transport links and potentially flexible working arrangements to accommodate site demands.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are 40 per week, Monday to Friday. However, the demands of infrastructure projects mean that flexibility is crucial. This may involve occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, attend urgent site meetings, or manage unforeseen design challenges. The role requires a commitment to ensuring project milestones are met, regardless of standard working hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role, coupled with the requirement for frequent site visits, means the work environment is a blend of office-based strategic management and on-the-ground project oversight. This demands strong organizational skills and the ability to adapt to different working contexts.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the essential qualifications and experience. This stage will focus on your track record in residential design management and understanding of building safety regulations.

2. First Interview (Hiring Manager/Department Head): This interview will delve deeper into your experience, leadership style, and technical knowledge. Expect questions about your approach to managing design teams, handling complex design challenges, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

3. Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to present a portfolio of your work or discuss a specific project in detail. This could involve a hypothetical design challenge or a review of a past project to assess your problem-solving skills, technical acumen, and ability to articulate design strategies and outcomes.

4. Final Interview (Senior Leadership): This stage will focus on cultural fit, strategic thinking, and your vision for design management within United Infrastructure. Questions may revolve around your leadership philosophy, how you drive innovation, and your understanding of the company's values and goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Regulatory Compliance: Showcase projects where you successfully navigated complex regulatory landscapes, such as the Building Safety Act, CDM regulations, and Building Regulations. Clearly articulate the steps taken and the outcomes achieved.

• Demonstrate Design Coordination: Provide examples of how you coordinated diverse design elements (structural, MEP, façade, interior) to achieve a cohesive and buildable final product. Use visuals or diagrams if possible.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate impact. For example, "Reduced design-related variations by X%," "Achieved Y% cost savings through value engineering," or "Ensured all designs were approved by Building Control within Z weeks."

• Showcase Leadership: Include examples of how you managed and mentored design teams, resolved conflicts, and fostered a collaborative environment.

• Address High-Rise Experience: Dedicate specific examples to your high-rise development experience, detailing the unique challenges and solutions implemented.

Challenge Preparation:

• CDM & Building Safety Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would fulfill the CDM Principal Designer role and manage Building Regulations compliance for a challenging project.

• Design Coordination Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would address a scenario where different design disciplines are clashing or a critical design element is unbuildable.

• Value Engineering Pitch: Practice articulating a value engineering proposal, explaining the rationale, potential savings, and any associated risks.

• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare examples of how you effectively communicate complex technical information and design decisions to non-technical stakeholders (e.g., clients, commercial teams).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only technical competence but also leadership capabilities and alignment with the company's focus on safety and regulatory adherence. A well-prepared portfolio that directly addresses these areas will be crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD and/or Revit is essential for reviewing, coordinating, and potentially modifying design drawings. Experience demonstrating BIM understanding is also highly valued.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for document control, registration, distribution, and workflow management (e.g., Aconex, SharePoint, Procore) is critical for managing the flow of design information.

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

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools for team communication and collaboration (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, financial tracking (e.g., consultant fees), and creating progress reports.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear and concise reports from project management and document control systems.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design documentation flows into broader project management and commercial systems is beneficial.

• Experience with workflow automation tools within document management or project management systems to streamline processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools used for design visualization, documentation, and project coordination. Proficiency in BIM software like Revit is increasingly becoming a standard requirement in the construction industry, particularly for complex projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Health & Safety First: A paramount commitment to world-class Health and Safety is embedded in all aspects of work, reflecting the high-risk nature of infrastructure projects.

• Quality & Excellence: A drive for high standards and excellence in design and delivery, ensuring robust, reliable, and buildable solutions.

• Innovation & Solutions: A focus on delivering innovative solutions to complex client challenges, encouraging creative problem-solving.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across teams (design, commercial, operations, site) to achieve shared project goals.

• Integrity & Respect: Upholding company policies, procedures, and instructions with professionalism and respect for all stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates close collaboration with commercial, operations, and site teams to ensure design decisions align with budget, program, and site realities.

• Proactive Communication: A culture of proactive information exchange, regular technical coordination workshops, and clear communication of design status, risks, and changes.

• Partnership Approach: Working collaboratively with external consultants and subcontractors, fostering a partnership approach to problem-solving and delivery.

• Feedback Loops: Encouraging feedback on designs from site teams and commercial departments to inform future iterations and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in safety, quality, and collaborative problem-solving, essential for the infrastructure sector. Candidates should demonstrate an alignment with these values and a proactive, team-oriented approach to their work.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving building safety legislation (Building Safety Act, HRB Regulations) and construction standards.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of clients, internal departments, external consultants, and subcontractors, often with competing priorities.

• Design Coordination in Complex Projects: Ensuring seamless integration of diverse design elements (structural, MEP, façade, etc.) in large-scale residential or infrastructure projects, particularly high-rise developments.

• Driving Value Engineering: Identifying and implementing cost-saving measures without compromising safety, quality, or buildability, which can sometimes face resistance.

• Pace of Project Delivery: Meeting tight project deadlines and program requirements while maintaining design integrity and thoroughness.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Building Safety Expertise: Deepen knowledge and become a recognized expert in the Building Safety Act, CDM, and related regulations, potentially leading to specialized roles or consultancy.

• BIM Implementation: Develop advanced skills in BIM processes and technologies, contributing to the digital transformation of design and construction.

• Leadership Development: Enhance leadership and people management skills through formal training, mentorship, and by leading larger or more complex design teams.

• Industry Certifications: Pursue membership in professional bodies (CIOB, CIAT, RICS) or specialized certifications to enhance professional standing and expertise.

• Project Management Skills: Broaden expertise into overall project management, potentially leading to roles with greater commercial and operational responsibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges related to regulatory complexity and stakeholder management, but these are balanced by substantial opportunities for professional growth and specialization in high-demand areas of the construction industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a significant design conflict between two different consultants or disciplines. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, negotiation, and technical acumen.)

• "How do you ensure that a design is not only compliant with regulations but also cost-effective and buildable on site, especially in a high-rise context?" (Assess understanding of value engineering, buildability, and site practicality.)

• "Walk me through your process for fulfilling the CDM Principal Designer role on a complex residential project. What are the key documentation and communication requirements?" (Evaluate knowledge of CDM regulations and practical application.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of United Infrastructure, how would you contribute to the company's mission of delivering innovative and sustainable infrastructure solutions?" (Demonstrate research and alignment with company values.)

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and quality within your design team and among external partners?" (Assess leadership approach and commitment to core values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project presented, clearly define the challenge, your role and responsibilities, the actions you took (design process, coordination, risk mitigation), the results achieved (quantify where possible), and lessons learned.

• Emphasize Regulatory Compliance: Dedicate sections or specific examples to demonstrate your expertise in Building Safety Act, CDM, and Building Regulations. Show the documentation and approval processes you managed.

• Visual Aids: Use drawings, diagrams, or photos (if permissible) to illustrate design complexities and solutions.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate how your design management contributed to project success, whether through cost savings, improved buildability, enhanced safety, or timely delivery.

• Be Prepared for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about the technical aspects of your projects and your decision-making process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of technical expertise, regulatory knowledge, leadership capability, and a strong understanding of how design impacts project outcomes in the construction industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.

• Tailor Your CV: Ensure your CV prominently features keywords related to design management, technical coordination, CDM, Building Safety Act, high-rise development, AutoCAD, Revit, and project programming. Highlight quantifiable achievements and specific responsibilities aligned with the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that includes case studies demonstrating your experience in residential design management, regulatory compliance (especially Building Safety Act and CDM), value engineering, and successful project delivery. Focus on clarity, impact, and relevance to the role’s requirements.

• Research United Infrastructure: Understand the company's focus on utility and social infrastructure, its recent rebranding, and its commitment to safety and innovation. This will help you tailor your responses to their values and strategic goals.

• Practice Interview Questions: Prepare to discuss your experience with specific technical scenarios, leadership challenges, and your approach to stakeholder management, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with United Infrastructure before making application decisions.