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