Design Manager

The Design Project; Warrington; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure company in the UK is seeking a Design Manager to oversee the design program of infrastructure projects. The role involves managing project schedules, ensuring adherence to health and safety regulations, and fostering client relationships. Ideal candidates will have 5-10 years of experience in design management with a strong understanding of telecommunications site design. This position offers a competitive salary range of £45,000 - £65,000 and a comprehensive benefits package, including a pension scheme and private medical insurance.

Benefits

Bike to Work Scheme

Generous Holiday Allowance

Company Pension

Life Insurance

Private Medical Insurance

Wellness Programmes

Qualifications

• 5-10 years of experience in design management or project management.
• Proven track record of managing complex design programs.
• Understanding of Health and Safety regulations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the end-to-end design program for infrastructure projects.
• Drive timely and successful delivery of design initiatives.
• Cultivate strong client relationships and ensure effective communication.

Skills

Organizational & Time Management

Attention to Detail

Problem-Solving & Negotiation

Health and Safety Management

Education

Degree in Engineering or related field

Health and Safety qualifications (e.g., NEBOSH, IOSH)

Tools

Microsoft Project

AutoCAD

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Job Title: Design ManagerCompany: United InfrastructureLocation: Great Sankey, Warrington, England, United KingdomJob Type: Full-timeCategory: Operations Management / Infrastructure Design ManagementDate Posted: 2026-01-14T12:18:16.155Experience Level: 5-10 yearsRemote Status: On-site

• Oversee and manage the end-to-end design program for infrastructure projects, ensuring seamless integration with operations and adherence to client specifications and contractual obligations.
• Drive the timely and successful delivery of design initiatives by meticulously planning, monitoring, and controlling project schedules, identifying and mitigating risks to program milestones.
• apse strong relationships with internal teams, external stakeholders, and clients to ensure alignment, facilitate effective communication, and champion the company's brand representation.
• Identify and implement process efficiencies and improvements within both internal workflows and external client interactions to enhance overall project delivery and operational effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a critical link between the technical design phase and the operational execution of infrastructure projects. The emphasis on managing the "design programme" and ensuring alignment with "operations" suggests a strong focus on project management, resource allocation, and process optimization within thePX context of utility and social infrastructure development. The requirement for understanding "critical path" and "productivity assumptions" points towards a need for analytical skills and a deep understanding of project lifecycles.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and meticulously track detailed design program schedules for wireless infrastructure delivery, ensuring alignment with United Infrastructure's (UIC) key milestones and targets.
• Proactively identify, assess, and report on project risks and potential delays, inputting this data into the schedule and communicating impacts to the UIC project team.
• Effectively capture and integrate early warnings, compensation events, and project management instructions into the project schedule to maintain accurate project baselines.
• Collaborate closely with the UIC operations team to understand resource profiles and productivity assumptions, ensuring that key delivery targets are achievable and met.
• Analyze and understand the critical path of the program, working collaboratively with the wider project team to proactively manage, troubleshoot, and resolve risks and issues.
• Cultivate and maintain robust client relationships, acting as a key point of contact and ensuring positive brand representation through effective communication and project delivery.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements and efficiencies within both internal operational procedures and external client-facing processes, driving continuous enhancement.
• Accurately input and manage project data within internal and client-specific systems to ensure consistent alignment and reporting across all stakeholders.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties assigned by management to support the successful execution of design and operational objectives.
• Champion a strong Health and Safety culture by setting a positive example, ensuring all team members understand and adhere to relevant health and safety policies and arrangements, and taking responsibility for personal and team safety.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific duties highlight a Negeri blend of project management, operational liaison, and client-facing responsibilities. The emphasis on "wireless delivery" and "UK wireless telecommunication site design" indicates a specialized domain. The inclusion of "CDM" (Construction Design and Management regulations) and "Health and Safety" responsibilities underscores the critical importance of regulatory compliance and safety protocols in this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A strong understanding of Health and Safety regulations, ideally evidenced by relevant qualifications (e.g., NEBOSH, IOSH, GUI).
• While not explicitly stated, a degree or HND in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Telecommunications, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering) or a related field would be highly advantageous for a Design Manager role.

Experience:

• A minimum of alcuni 5-10 years of progressive experience in a design management or project management role, with a significant portion focused on infrastructure projects.
<714?
• Proven track record of successfully managing complex design programs from inception to completion, demonstrating an ability to deliver within defined timescales and budgets.

Required Skills:

• Organizational & Time Management: Exceptional organizational skills with a proven ability to manage multiple priorities, work effectively under pressure, and consistently meet deadlines.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accuracy in program scheduling, risk assessment, and compliance with contractual and technical standards.
• Contractual Acumen: A strong understanding of contracts, Service Level Agreements (SLAs), and their implications for design delivery and project management.
• Problem-Solving & Negotiation: Excellent problem-solving abilities to identify issues, develop effective solutions, and strong negotiation skills for managing stakeholder expectations and resolving conflicts.
• People Management: Demonstr Именно ability to lead, motivate, and manage teams, including performance management and fostering a collaborative work environment.
• Proactiveness & Self-Motivation: A proactive and self-motivated individual capable of working independently, taking initiative, and driving results.
• Relationship Management: Ability to develop, establish, and maintain effective professional relationships with both internal teams and external clients.
• Decision Making & Solution Orientation: Capacity to make sound decisions and provide practical solutions to challenges encountered during project delivery.
• Health and Safety Management: A robust understanding of health and safety principles and practices, particularly within the construction and telecommunications sectors.

Preferred Skills:

• UK Wireless Telecommunication Site Design: Specific, proven background and expertise in the design processes and technical requirements for UK wireless telecommunication sites.
• Resource Planning & Management: Extensive experience in resource planning, allocation, and management to optimize team productivity and project timelines.
• AutoCAD Proficiency: Preferred experience with AutoCAD for design visualization, review, or integration with design programs.
• IT Skills: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data analysis, scheduling, and reporting, alongside strong general IT skills with other Microsoft Office Suite applications.
• CDM & Health and Safety Management: In-depth knowledge and practical application of CDM regulations and broader health and safety management frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications section emphasizes a strong blend of technical expertise in teleపీ site design and_callback_essential project management competencies. The preference for AutoCAD and specific knowledge of UK wireless telecommunications highlights the specialized nature of the role. The inclusion of CDM and H&S qualifications/experience is paramount given the Heute industry and the Nature of infrastructure projects.

• Design Program Management Case Studies: Examples showcasing the successful planning, execution, and выдел delivery of complex design programs, detailing methodologies used for scheduling, risk management, and stakeholder coordination.
• Process Improvement Initiatives: Documented instances where you identified inefficiencies in design or operational processes and implemented solutions, spanning measurable improvements in.speed, cost, or quality.
• System Integrationüss: Evidence of experience integrating design data or workflows with operational systems or client-specific platforms yours.
• Stakeholder Management & Client Relationship Examples: Demonstrations how you built and maintained strong relationships with clients and internal#include teams, including examples of successful collaboration on critical projects.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Ability to document and optimize end-to-end design workflows, from initial concept through to handover to operations, ensuring clarity and efficiency.
• Implementation & Automation: Experience in implementing new processes or leveraging technology to automate design or program management lifecycle.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Proficiency in defining KPIs for design programs and conducting performance analysis to identify areas for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial to demonstrate practical application of skills. Candidates should prepare case studies that highlight their ability to manage complex schedules, πλευ tasks, and deliver continuous improvements. Specific examples related to telecommunications infrastructure design and compliance with UK regulations would be highly beneficial.

Salary Range:

• Based on the experience level (5-10 years), location (Warrington, UK), and the responsibilities of a Design Manager in the infrastructure sector, a competitive salary range would typically fall between £45,000 - £65,000Meal per annum. This estimate is derived from industry benchmarks for similar roles in the North West England region, considering the specialized nature of telecommunications design and project management.
• Bike to Work Scheme: Encourages active commuting and offers tax benefits on bicycle purchases.
• Generous Holiday Allowance: 26 days of annual leave plus bank holidays, providing ample time for rest and personal pursuits.
• Company Pension: A contributory pension scheme to support long-term financial planning.
• Life Insurance: Provides financial security for beneficiaries in the event of the employee's passing.
• Private Medical Insurance: Offers access to private healthcare services for the employee, ensuring prompt medical attention.
• Wellness Programmes: Initiatives to support employee well-being, both physical and mental.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. Given the on-site nature of the role and the demands of project management, flexibility may impose required for meeting deadlines and stakeholder meetings, but this would typical be managed within a structured working week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on general UK market data for management roles with 5-10 years of experience in engineering and construction sectors, adjusted for the specific region. The benefits package is comprehensive and aligned with typical offerings for professional roles in the UK, with particular emphasis on employee well-being stream long-term security.

• United Infrastructure operates within the critical Utility and Social Infrastructure sectors. This means they are involved in building and maintaining essential services like water, energy (gas), power, and telecommunications networks, as well as undertaking refurbishment and maintenance for social housing and community projects. This industry demands a high level of technical expertise, commitment to safety, and regulatory compliance.
• United Infrastructure is described as a "dynamic and rapidly expanding business." While an exact number isn't provided, this growth suggests a company with evolving structures and processes, likely offer opportunities for individuals to contribute to shaping the company's future. For operations professionals, this can mean a more agile environment but also requires adaptability and the ability to contribute to process development.
• Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the description of "rapidly expanding" implies a relatively established entity that has found substantial success and is now scaling its operations.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager role sits within a structure that requires close liaison with the Operations team. This indicates a cross-functional team dynamic where design output directly influences operational execution.
• The role likely reports to a senior project or program manager, with direct management responsibilities for a design team.
• Collaboration is expected with various internal departments (e.g., operations, commercial, health & safety) and external stakeholders, including clients and potential regulatory bodies.

Methodology кәлгән:

• The company emphasizes delivering "innovative solutions to complex challenges." This suggests a culture that values problem-solving and technical ingenuity.
• A strong focus on "maintaining good practice and alignment with client and national standards" points to a commitment to quality and compliance in their work.
• The mention of "findingFlexible efficiencies and improvements in internal and external processes" indicates a commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on essential infrastructure and its growth trajectory suggest a stable yet dynamic work environment. Operations professionals in such a company would likely be involved in projects with tangible societal impact and would need to be adept at navigating both technical complexities and business development.

Operations Career Level:

• This Design Manager role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the operations and project delivery framework of United Infrastructure. It requires a blend of technical design oversight, robust project management capabilities, and people leadership. The scope involves managing the entire design program, ensuring it aligns with operational realities and contractual requirements, indicating a significant level of responsibility and autonomy.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Manager is expected to liaise closely with the internal UIC operations team and likely reports to a higher-level project or program director. This position acts as a crucial bridge, translating strategic project goals into actionable design plans that are feasible for operational execution and ensuring operational feedback informs design decisions.

Operations Impact:

• The Design Manager plays a pivotal role in BOX successfully infrastructure projects by ensuring designs are technically sound, compliant, and practical for operations teams. This role directly impacts project timelines, cost-effectiveness, and safety compliance, ultimately reflecting client satisfaction and company reputation for delivering critical infrastructure.
Senior Management Roles: Progression to a Senior Design Manager, head of design, or program director overseeing larger and more complex portfolios.
• Specialization Advancement: Deepening expertise in areas like telecommunications infrastructure design préférable, risk management, or construction methodologies, becoming a consultant or subject matter expert.
• Operational Leadership: Transitioning into broader operational management roles, leveraging the design-to-operations integration for strategic planning and execution.
• Continuous Learning: Opportunities to pursue further health and safety qualifications, certifications such as PRINCE2, PMP, and trainings in relevant software.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager in this sector typically includes increasing responsibilities in managing larger projects, leading bigger teams, and contributing to strategic zariit planning and delivery. Cross-functional collaboration and process improvement open opportunities for operational leadership.

Office Type:

• The role is based on-site at the United Infrastructure office in Great Sankey, Warrington, supporting traditional office interactions and collaborations.

Office Location(s):

• The primary office location is Lingley Green Avenue, Great Sankey, Warrington, WA5, United Kingdom. This location will be the Hub for design program tracking, team coordination, and stakeholder interactions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: On-site collaboration conducive to team dynamic discussions and design reviews.
< persoonsgegevens>
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to standard office technology, including IT systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and potentially specialized design and project management software.
• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with operations team, project managers, and other design professionals to ensure team collaboration.

Work Schedule::

• The role is full-time with expected залежні working hours around 40_cliente per week. May involve flexibility for stakeholder meetings or emergencies.

📝 Enhancement Note: On-site requirement emphasizes structured environment.

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of your CV and application to assess experience in design management, mission. and key skills such as scheduling, risk mgmt, and stakeholder liaison.
• First Interview: HR or hiring manager, focuses on background, motivations. and role fit.
• Technical/Case Study Interview: In-depth discussion around telecommunications site design, scenario. and risk management.
• Final Interview: Senior leadership, strategic alignment, leadership style, career goals. Structure;_noise.
• Highlight Design Program Management: Showcase 2-3 key projects highlighting scope, role, methodology, challenges, outcomes.
• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics for impact.
• Process Improvement Focus: Provide evidence of efficiencies.
• Client & Stakeholder Management: Examples of collaboration and conflict resolution.
• Tailor to Infrastructure: Experience in utility or telecom infrastructure.
• Scenario-based Questions: Practices for risk management and decision making.
• ... (continue for full interview). etc.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview heavy on competencies.

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Expertise with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar enterprise project scheduling and management software.
• Collaboration Platforms: Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication, document sharing, etc.
• Document Management Systems:> For storing, versioning, and compliance.
• Design Software Integration: Understanding of AutoCAD or BIM integration into project management.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: Advanced skills needed for data analysis, modeling, reporting.
• Business Intelligence Tools (Potentially): Power BI or Tableau for dashboards and performance metrics.

CRM & Automation ativos:

• CRM Systems (Salesforce, Dynamics): Helpful for client interaction and tracking.
• Workflow Automation Tools (Basic): Awareness of streamline design processes.

Operations Values:

• Safety First: Emphasis on health and safety compliance.
Quality & Compliance: Commitment to high-quality designs and contractual obligations.
• Efficiency & Innovation: Drive for better work methods.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on cross-department collaboration.
• Customer Focus: Building strong client relationships.
• Cross-functional Integration: Bridge design with operations.
• Process Review & Feedback: Open to improve processes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encourage best practice sharing.

📝 Enhancement Note: Company culture emphasizes safety and quality.

• Balancing Design Excellence with Operational Feasibility: ensure designs meet client requirements and operational viability.
• Managing Complex Schedules வாஏ & Risks: plan and mitigate risks.
• Stakeholder Alignment: navigate expectations.
• resource optimization: guarantee productivity.
• Adapting to Evolving Standards: keep up with telecom technology, CDM changes.
• Advanced Project Management: pursue certifications.
< özeletimes> Specialized Technical Training: further telecom design training.
• Health & Safety Leadership: advanced qualifications.
• Leadership Development Programs: internal or external programs.
• Industry Conferences & Networking: attend events.

📝 Enhancement Note: opportunities for growth, learning, skill development.

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe..that" etc
• ... (list continues)

Company & Culture Questions:

• ... (list continues)

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation emphasises articulating experience.

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link provided on SmartRecruiters.
• Tailor your CV: Emphasize keywords like "Design Manager," "Program Management," "Infrastructure Projects," "Utility Infrastructure," etc.
• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 strong case studies showcasing your project management, integration with operations, and process improvements.
• Research United Infrastructure: Understand core business sectors, recent projects, and values.
• Practice Interview Responses: Behavior-based responses.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates should have a proven background in UK wireless telecommunication site design and experience in resource planning and management. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to build client relationships are essential.

Bike To Work Scheme, 26 Days Holidays Plus Bank Holidays, Company Pension, Life Insurance, Private Medical Insurance, Wellness Programmes