Design Manager – Data Centres & Mission Critical Projects
Wolverhampton
£55,000 – £70,000 per annum, Bonus, Car Allowance + Excellent Package
Company Overview:
Our client is a leading UK main contractor with a turnover in excess of £1bn, specialising in the delivery of large-scale data centre, mission-critical and complex industrial projects across the UK and Europe. Renowned for technical excellence, innovation and repeat blue-chip clients, the business continues to grow its design and engineering capability to support a strong secured pipeline of work.
Key Responsibilities:
Design Management:
* Manage and coordinate the design process across all disciplines (architectural, structural, MEP, specialist systems)
* Lead the design development from concept through detailed design, construction and commissioning
* Ensure compliance with employer’s requirements, technical standards, statutory regulations and client specifications
* Chair and manage design team meetings, workshops and technical reviews
Pre-Construction & Tender Support:
* Support bid and pre-construction teams with design input, risk reviews and value engineering
* Review consultant and specialist contractor proposals for technical compliance
* Contribute to programme development and design deliverables schedules
Technical & Commercial Interface:
* Identify and manage design risks, opportunities and change control
* Work closely with commercial teams to manage design-related costs and variations
* Support procurement through design reviews and technical clarifications
Construction & Delivery Support:
* Provide ongoing design support to site teams during construction
* Manage RFIs, design queries and coordination issues
* Ensure design information is issued in line with construction programme
* Support commissioning, testing and handover processes
Stakeholder Management:
* Act as a key technical interface with clients, consultants, statutory authorities and supply chain partners
* Build strong working relationships across internal teams and external stakeholders
Ideal Candidate Profile:
Essential:
* Proven experience as a Design Manager or Assistant Design Manager with a main contractor
* Experience delivering data centre, mission-critical, industrial or complex MEP-led projects
* Strong understanding of design management processes across RIBA stages
* Good technical knowledge of building services coordination and integrated design
* Ability to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced environment
* Excellent communication, coordination and stakeholder management skills
Desirable:
* Experience on large-scale, high-value projects (£50m+)
* Knowledge of off-site manufacturing, modular or fast-track construction
* Exposure to international or hyperscale data centre clients
* Relevant construction or engineering qualification (HNC/HND/Degree)
Personal Attributes:
* Technically confident and detail-focused
* Proactive problem solver with a collaborative approach
* Commercially aware and delivery focused
* Able to work under pressure and meet challenging deadlines