Senior Design Manager

Wates Group; Wigan; Remote; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Wates is delivering a landmark custodial redevelopment at HMP Hindley in Wigan. We are seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead and shape the design strategy across the complex scheme, coordinating disciplines and stakeholders to ensure successful delivery.

You will lead the on-site design function, drive collaboration, quality and innovation, and mentor the wider design team on a high-impact project with safety and rehabilitation outcomes at its core.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Senior Design Manager on large-scale construction projects.
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management capability.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design function on site and shape the design strategy across the project.
• Lead and manage the design process through all delivery stages.
• Provide direction and leadership to the design team and stakeholders.
• Ensure design solutions are practical, compliant, and aligned to programme.
• Drive innovation, risk management and continuous improvement.
• Mentor and support the wider design team.

Skills

Senior Design Manager leadership

Stakeholder management

Design coordination

Communication skills

Job description

Senior Design Manager – HMP Hindley

Location: Wigan (HMP Hindley)

Business Unit: Wates Construction – Construction West

Contract Type: Permanent

Lead Design on a Landmark Project

We are delivering one of the UK's most significant custodial redevelopment projects at HMP Hindley—transforming the site to support safer environments, improved facilities, and better outcomes for rehabilitation. We're now seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead and shape the design strategy across this complex, high-impact scheme.

This is an opportunity to play a key leadership role on a project that genuinely matters.

About the Role

As Senior Design Manager, you'll lead the design function on site—bringing together teams, disciplines, and stakeholders to ensure successful delivery.

You’ll be a key part of the project leadership team, driving quality, innovation, and collaboration across the design lifecycle.

You will:

• Work closely with the Principal Design Manager in creating not only an exemplar project but also cultivating an approach to design management that will positively affect the project
• Lead and manage the design process across all key stages of delivery
• Provide direction and leadership to the design team
• Work closely with senior stakeholders and consultants
• Ensure design solutions are practical, compliant, and aligned to programme
• Drive innovation, risk management, and continuous improvement
• Support and mentor the wider design team

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for an experienced leader who thrives in a complex, collaborative environment.

You’ll bring:

• Proven experience as a Senior Design Manager on large-scale construction projects
• Confidence working with clear reportable deliverables, keeping the wider team aware of status
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management capability
• Deep understanding of multidisciplinary design coordination
• Commercial awareness and ability to balance design, cost, and programme
• Excellent communication and influencing skills

Why Join Wates?

• Play a leading role on a secured long term flagship project
• Work alongside a high‑calibre, supportive team
• Deliver a scheme with genuine social impact and purpose
• Be part of a business that values collaboration, innovation, and people