Design Manager

Skilled Careers; City Of London; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm based in London is seeking an experienced Design Manager for data centre projects. The role involves managing the design process from concept to delivery, ensuring compliance with standards and client requirements. Ideal candidates will possess a relevant degree and demonstrate experience in managing complex infrastructure projects. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Lead on mission-critical infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of MEP and architectural coordination for large-scale technical facilities.
• Familiarity with international data centre design standards.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design process on data centre projects.
• Ensure design compliance with local building codes and client requirements.
• Develop and manage design programmes, schedules, and deliverables.

Skills

Design management

Stakeholder management

Technical leadership

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related technical discipline

Tools

BIM

Job description

Job Title: Design Manager - Data Centre Projects

Location: London

Employment Type: Permanent

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager with a proven track record of delivering complex, large-scale data centre projects. This individual will play a pivotal role in managing and coordinating the design process from concept through to delivery, ensuring that the technical, operational, and commercial objectives are achieved.

The successful candidate will act as the key interface between clients, design teams, contractors, and internal stakeholders, ensuring design integrity, compliance with standards, and alignment with overall project strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design process on mission-critical data centre projects.
• Ensure design compliance with local building codes, international data centre standards, and client requirements.
• Develop and manage design programmes, schedules, and deliverables to align with project milestones.
• Oversee design reviews, value engineering sessions, and technical workshops.
• Manage design changes and ensure proper documentation and communication of design decisions.
• Work closely with construction, procurement, and operations teams to ensure seamless transition from design to delivery.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, and key stakeholders to manage expectations and achieve project objectives.

Experience & Qualifications

• Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related technical discipline.
• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Lead on data centre or other mission-critical infrastructure projects (e.g., hospitals, laboratories, clean rooms).
• Strong understanding of MEP and architectural coordination for large-scale technical facilities.
• Familiarity with international data centre design standards (e.g., Uptime Institute Tier Standards, ASHRAE guidelines).
• Experience working with BIM and digital design processes.
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills

• Chartered Engineer or Architect status (or working towards).
• Experience with sustainability and energy efficiency strategies in data centre design.
• Strong commercial awareness and ability to balance technical and cost considerations.
• Familiarity with commissioning and operational handover processes.