Data jobs in United Kingdom

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Company: AECOM

Location: Manchester, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Management & Operations

Date Posted: March 09, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

• Leads and manages complex design projects within the infrastructure consulting sector, focusing on driving efficiency and quality throughout the project lifecycle.

• Oversees critical financial processes, including invoicing and cash flow projections, ensuring adherence to AECOM's financial systems and contractual obligations.

• Manages the entire sub-consultant lifecycle, from contract drafting and negotiation to progress monitoring and financial reporting, ensuring seamless project integration.

• Establishes, implements, and enforces robust design management procedures, encompassing roles, responsibilities, programming, quality assurance, budget control, and approvals.

• Contributes to the development of junior design management professionals through active mentoring, training, and performance reviews, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Note: The role requires a blend of technical design oversight, rigorous project financial management, and strong leadership for large-scale project execution within construction and engineering sectors.

• Lead the end-to-end design management process for significant infrastructure projects, both within the UK and internationally.

• Execute and oversee internal financial processes, including accurate invoicing, timely submission of client invoices, and meticulous financial reporting.

• Conduct thorough reviews of all design outputs from internal teams and external sub-consultants to ensure adherence to quality standards, technical specifications, and contractual requirements.

• Prepare detailed responsibility matrices to clearly delineate scope and accountability for each sub-consultant involved in a project.

• Draft, negotiate, and finalize back-to-back contracts with sub-consultants, ensuring all project scope is comprehensively covered and risks are mitigated.

• Manage updates and amendments to sub-consultant contracts, preparing all necessary final documentation for execution.

• Develop and maintain accurate cash flow projections for projects, providing regular updates to project stakeholders.

• Establish and manage efficient procedures for sub-consultant invoice submission, monitoring, and timely payment processing.

• Track and report on the progress of all sub-consultant invoices, compiling a comprehensive monthly Financial Report for senior management.

• Develop, implement, and enforce standardized design management procedures, including roles and responsibilities, scope delineation, design programming, deliverable management, quality control, budget management, change control, and securing necessary approvals.

• Organize and lead project meetings and design workshops to facilitate collaboration, resolve issues, and drive project momentum.

• Ensure effective design coordination among all project stakeholders to prevent conflicts and optimize design solutions.

• Achieve AECOM Project Management (PM) accreditation and actively manage design projects in strict accordance with AECOM's financial systems and established processes.

• Assist in the professional development of junior Design Management team members by providing effective mentoring, targeted training, and constructive performance reviews.

• Support the overall leadership and strategic direction of the Design Management team as required.

Education:

• While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related technical field is typically expected for a Senior Design Manager role.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in design management, project management, or a closely related field within the infrastructure, construction, or engineering sectors.

• Proven experience in leading and managing complex design projects, ideally with international exposure.

• Demonstrated success in managing sub-consultant relationships, contracts, and financial performance.

Required Skills:

• Design Management: Comprehensive understanding of the entire design process from conceptualization to construction documentation.

• Financial Process Management: Proficiency in managing project finances, including invoicing, cash flow projections, budget control, and financial reporting.

• Sub-consultant Management: Expertise in contract negotiation, scope definition, performance monitoring, and relationship management with external consultants.

• Contract Drafting & Management: Ability to draft, review, and manage complex contracts, ensuring alignment with project scope and AECOM's legal requirements.

• Project Programming & Scheduling: Skilled in developing, monitoring, and reporting on design project timelines using tools like MS Project.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Experience in establishing and enforcing quality standards for design deliverables and processes.

• Commercial Awareness: Strong understanding of project commercial aspects, including risk management, change control, and profitability.

• Construction Knowledge: Familiarity with construction processes, methodologies, and potential implications for design.

• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for effective stakeholder engagement, team leadership, and report writing.

• Proficiency in MS Project: Advanced skills in project scheduling and resource management.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel: Strong analytical and data management capabilities.

• Proficiency in Adobe InDesign: Ability to create and manage visually appealing documents and reports.

Preferred Skills:

• AECOM PM Accreditation: Completion of AECOM's internal Project Management accreditation program.

• International Project Experience: Direct experience managing design projects in diverse geographical and regulatory environments.

• Mentoring & Training: Proven ability to develop and mentor junior team members.

• Risk Management: Experience in identifying, assessing, and mitigating design and project risks.

• Stakeholder Management: Advanced skills in managing relationships with clients, regulatory bodies, and internal teams.

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Management Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of projects managed, highlighting the scale, complexity, and geographical scope.

• Process Improvement Initiatives: Demonstrate instances where you designed, implemented, or significantly improved design management procedures, workflow optimization, or project execution methodologies.

• Financial Management Examples: Include evidence of managing project budgets, cash flow projections, and sub-consultant financial oversight, ideally with quantifiable results.

• Contractual Documentation Samples: Present anonymized examples of responsibility matrices, sub-consultant contract summaries, or scope delineation documents you have developed.

• Quality Assurance Frameworks: Illustrate how you have established and maintained quality standards for design deliverables, including review processes and compliance checks.

• Stakeholder Engagement Strategies: Provide examples of how you have managed communication and collaboration with diverse project stakeholders, including clients, sub-consultants, and internal teams.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Candidates should be prepared to discuss and potentially present their approach to designing efficient workflows for design management, covering stages from initiation to handover.

• Implementation & Automation: Evidence of successfully implementing new processes or leveraging technology (like MS Project, Excel, InDesign) to automate repetitive tasks, improve data accuracy, and enhance reporting efficiency.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Demonstrate how you track the performance of design processes, measure key metrics (e.g., on-time delivery, budget adherence, quality scores), and use this data for continuous improvement.

Note: For a Senior Design Manager role, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. The emphasis should be on tangible outcomes, process improvements, and financial/contractual management capabilities.

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Hybrid Work Options: Flexibility to balance work between home and AECOM offices, promoting work-life integration.

• Professional Development: Access to training, mentoring, and support for achieving AECOM PM accreditation and other relevant certifications.

• Health & Well-being Programs: Comprehensive health insurance, mental health support, and wellness initiatives.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Competitive pension scheme with employer contributions.

• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave allowance, plus public holidays.

• Life Assurance: Company-provided life insurance coverage.

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

• Career Advancement Opportunities: Potential for growth within AECOM's global network, including international assignments and leadership roles.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid work arrangement offers flexibility in structuring these hours, subject to project demands and team coordination needs.

Note: Salary estimates reflect UK market benchmarks for senior engineering and project management roles in the North West; AECOM typically offers a comprehensive benefits package aligned with industry standards.

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting (Transportation, Buildings, Water, New Energy, Environment). AECOM is a global leader in providing professional services across the project lifecycle.

Company Size: Over 50,000 employees globally.

Founded: 1910

Team Structure: Operations Team; reporting to senior design management leaders; cross-functional collaboration with engineering, project management, commercial, legal, and client representatives.

Methodology: Data-driven decision making, process optimization, client-centric approach, and sustainability & ESG integration.

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

Note: This section reflects corporate culture and governance expectations to align with values and operating principles.

Operations Career Level: Senior individual contributor or early management. Requires extensive technical and operational expertise, leadership, and autonomy. Potential for advancement in design leadership or operations management.

Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a senior operations leader within a business unit or regional management structure.

Operations Impact: Delivers successful, efficient, and profitable design services; impact measured by project success, client satisfaction, financial performance, team development, and risk mitigation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership progression to Design Director, Program Director, or larger international projects.

• Specialization in infrastructure sectors or advanced design management methodologies.

• Global mobility and international assignments.

• Technical & professional development through internal programs and leadership training.

• Mentorship roles and potential for formal leadership positions.

Note: The role balances technical depth with operational leadership within a large global organization.

Office Type: Hybrid work model; primarily in Manchester with potential involvement in other UK locations.

Office Location(s):

• Primary: Manchester, Level 4, 100 Embankment.

• Secondary Mentioned: Birmingham, United Kingdom.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative environment with meeting rooms, breakout spaces, and technology for design reviews and client presentations.

• Access to standard operational tools, including MS Project, document management systems, and communication platforms.

• Team interaction across Manchester and virtual collaboration.

Work Schedule:

• 40 hours per week with hybrid flexibility; occasional hours outside standard due to project deadlines.

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: CV and application review for alignment with design management, financial oversight, and sub-consultant management.

• First Interview: With hiring manager and a senior design management member; discuss experience, technical skills, and leadership style.

• Technical/Case Study Assessment: Present a case study from portfolio detailing a complex design management challenge, approach, and outcomes.

• Final Interview: With senior leadership focusing on strategic fit and career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize by project type, complexity, or skills demonstrated.

• Quantify Impact: Include objectives, roles, challenges, solutions, and measurable outcomes.

• Process Focus: Highlight design management processes developed or improved.

• Financial & Contractual Expertise: Demonstrate budgeting, cash flow, invoicing, and sub-consultant contracts.

• Visual Quality: Ensure portfolio is clear and professional.

• Tailor to AECOM: Align examples with AECOM's sectors and priorities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process design planning, problem-solving scenarios, and financial management scenarios.

• Leadership & mentoring approaches.

Note: Interview preparation should demonstrate practical application of operational and financial management skills with portfolio evidence.

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Project: Essential for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Microsoft Excel: For financial analysis, data management, and reporting.

• Adobe InDesign: For professional project documentation and reports.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with enterprise DMS (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex, Bentley ProjectWise).

Analytics & Reporting:

• AECOM Internal Financial Systems: Familiarity with internal financial management and invoicing software.

• BI Tools: Experience with Power BI or Tableau for dashboards and performance analytics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Software: Experience with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) is possible but may be used by broader teams.

• Workflow Automation: Understanding of automating tasks within design management or reporting.

Note: Core tools to demonstrate proficiency are MS Project, Excel, and InDesign; be prepared to discuss their use in driving efficiency and quality.

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in financial management and contracts.

• Excellence: Delivering high-quality design solutions and processes.

• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork across disciplines.

• Innovation: Adopting new ideas and technologies to improve processes.

• Sustainability: Incorporating ESG principles into design and management.

• Accountability: Owning responsibilities and project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Work with engineers, project managers, commercial teams, and clients for integrated delivery.

• Open Feedback: Constructive feedback to improve design quality and efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Share practices and lessons learned across the organization.

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Sub-consultant Teams: Coordinating multiple sub-consultants with varied expertise and contracts.

• Balancing Projects with Financial Controls: Meeting deadlines while enforcing financial processes.

• Navigating International Project Complexities: Regulatory and cultural differences across regions.

• Driving Process Adoption: Overcoming resistance to standardized procedures.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping up with new design software and digital tools.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AECOM PM Accreditation: Structured program to enhance project management capabilities.

• Specialized Training: Courses on advanced design techniques, risk management, and leadership.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Networking and exposure to new technologies.

• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from senior leaders.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Work on diverse projects for broader experience.

Note: Growth opportunities reflect AECOM's commitment to employee development.

Strategy Questions:

• Operational Design Management: Describe your approach to establishing a design management framework for a major infrastructure project, including key components and implementation.

• Financial & Contractual Oversight: How do you manage project finances, contracts, invoicing, and cash flow? Provide an example of resolving a financial risk.

• Problem-Solving & Decision Making: Describe a significant design conflict and how you resolved it, including outcomes.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Understanding AECOM's Business: What do you know about AECOM's work in sectors such as transportation or buildings?

• Leadership & Teamwork: How do you lead and mentor junior design management professionals?

• Values Alignment: How have you demonstrated integrity, excellence, and sustainability in past roles?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 2-3 projects that showcase design management, financial oversight, sub-consultant management, and process implementation.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, provide overview, challenges, solution, and measurable outcomes.

• Highlight Processes: Detail any procedures you developed or optimized and the rationale behind them.

• Financial & Contractual Focus: Demonstrate management of sub-consultant contracts, budgets, and cash flow.

• Conciseness: Present concisely with clear impact.

Portfolio Tips: Be ready to discuss methodologies and tangible results.

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application form via the provided link, ensuring all sections are filled accurately.

• Tailor Your CV: Highlight experience directly relevant to design management, sub-consultant oversight, financial process management, and proficiency in MS Project, Excel, and InDesign. Use job description keywords.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate strong work samples showing complex project management, design procedures, and financial oversight with quantifiable results.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with recent projects, values, and sustainability/ESG approach.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Use STAR method and practice presenting portfolio case studies concisely.

Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry assumptions. Verify all details with AECOM before applying.

Candidates must demonstrate understanding of the design process, proficiency in project and design programming, and experience implementing design management tools and procedures. Essential technical skills include commercial awareness, construction knowledge, and proficiency in MS Project, Excel, and InDesign.