Design Manager – Water

Location: Cardiff
Job Type: Permanent
Salary: Competitive + Benefits Package
Reports to: Framework Director

Job Description

The Principal Design Manager is responsible for leading and coordinating internal and external design teams to ensure projects are delivered on time and in line with client expectations. This role involves managing the design process from concept to completion, ensuring seamless integration of technical and commercial requirements.

Acting as the central point of communication and decision-making for design activities, the Principal Design Manager fosters collaboration among stakeholders, including clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams. Key responsibilities include setting clear objectives, efficiently allocating resources, and ensuring a high-performing design team.

With a focus on technical excellence, the Principal Design Manager ensures designs are accurate, compliant, and aligned with safety standards, minimizing errors and mitigating risks during construction.

A strong commercial focus is crucial, working closely with the commercial team to ensure designs align with budget constraints, manage subcontract design costs, and identify value engineering opportunities.

By balancing technical expertise, team leadership, stakeholder collaboration, and commercial acumen, the Principal Design Manager ensures successful project delivery that meets high-quality standards, remains financially viable, and aligns with the company’s strategic goals.

Qualifications:

• Degree / HND / HNC in Civil Engineering or a similar discipline.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a similar role.
• Experience in infrastructure, civil engineering, mechanical/process engineering, or utilities.
• Full GB Driving License.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook, Word, Excel, and Project.

Key Objectives:

Collaborating with Clients

• Work closely with clients to understand expectations and align designs with their vision and budget.
• Maintain transparent communication and provide regular updates on progress and cost implications.
• Identify opportunities for added value and build long-term relationships.

Managing Subcontract Design Teams

• Oversee and coordinate subcontract design teams, ensuring alignment with project requirements, timelines, and budgets.
• Review and approve subcontractor designs for quality and compliance.
• Manage contracts and costs, ensuring value for money and holding subcontractors accountable for agreed standards.

Ensuring Timely Delivery of Designs

• Oversee design production, ensuring strict schedules are met without compromising quality.
• Monitor progress, address potential delays proactively, and implement process improvements.
• Ensure deliverables are cost-effective and aligned with financial goals.

Applying Technical Expertise

• Drive innovative, safe, and cost-efficient solutions.
• Focus on value engineering to optimize designs, reduce material use, and improve construction methods.
• Ensure every design decision enhances project efficiency and commercial viability.

Reviewing Designs for Health, Safety, and Cost Implications

• Ensure compliance with health & safety standards while considering the commercial impact of designs.
• Identify ways to simplify construction, reduce waste, and lower costs without compromising quality.

Reducing Errors and Risks

• Implement quality control measures to minimize errors and costly rework.
• Identify and mitigate potential design risks to safeguard project budgets.

Maintaining Comprehensive Documentation

• Ensure thorough documentation of the design process, decisions, cost implications, and adjustments.
• Use documentation for accountability, financial analysis, and continuous improvement.

Staying Informed

• Keep up-to-date with industry best practices and legislation to identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure designs remain competitive, compliant, and financially efficient.

Balancing Office and Site Work

• Divide time between office-based tasks (cost tracking, budgeting, and coordination) and site visits.
• Ensure alignment between design intent and real-world implementation to bridge the gap between concept and construction.

How to Apply

If you are interested and would like further details, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.