Role Title: Design Manager
Department/Function: Design
Reports To (Title): Project Director
Location: Reading
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:
To lead and manage the design and technical delivery of engineering projects from concept through to completion. The Design Manager ensures that all design outputs meet legislative, client, and internal standards while supporting operational efficiency, safety, and innovation. This role is pivotal in aligning technical solutions with business objectives and maintaining the company’s reputation for quality and professionalism.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Design Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of design and technical documentation across projects. This includes managing the design, coordinating with internal departments and external stakeholders, and ensuring that all design outputs are accurate, compliant, and delivered on time and within budget.
- Managing all design-related deliverables including calculations, drawings, method statements, HSE documentation, as-builts, and O&M manuals.
- Preparing detailed build budgets and technical designs prior to procurement and construction.
- Leading the design team and ensuring alignment with project goals and client expectations.
- Producing and reviewing technical submissions and engineered system designs.
- Ensuring compliance with current legislation and client specifications.
- Maintaining accurate records of design decisions and technical documentation.
- Providing on-site technical support and guidance.
- Supporting sales and estimation teams with technical input when required.
- Monitoring supplier technical updates and assessing their impact on the business.
- Promoting collaboration across departments to ensure seamless project delivery.
- Representing the company professionally in all client and stakeholder interactions.
- Supporting site management and contributing to a positive team culture.
- Keeping abreast of competitor developments and industry trends.
SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:
- Proven experience in a design management or senior design engineering role within the construction, engineering, or building services sector.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop design staff.
- Extensive technical knowledge of fire detection and suppression systems, including compliance with relevant standards (e.g., BS 5839, BS 5306).
- Experience in designing and delivering projects within data centre environments, with an understanding of critical infrastructure, redundancy, and cooling systems.
- Proficient in producing and reviewing detailed design drawings and calculations.
- Strong understanding of health, safety, and environmental regulations.
- Experience in budget preparation and cost control.
- Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities.
- Commercial awareness and understanding of project lifecycle and delivery.
PERSON SPECIFICATION:
- Degree or equivalent qualification in Engineering, Architecture, or a related technical discipline.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Word and Excel.
- Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or similar tools is advantageous.
- Experience with fire safety design tools and data centre modelling software is a plus.
- Full UK driving licence (if site visits are required).
- Commitment to continuous professional development
Pay: £70,000.00-£85,000.00 per year
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Reading
