Design Manager

Role: Design Manager – Power Transmission & Distribution 

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead the delivery of engineering design projects within the UK power transmission and distribution sector. This role includes overseeing design activity from concept through to completion and supporting multi-disciplinary teams, both locally and globally, to achieve high-quality project outcomes. 

Key Responsibilities 

Project & Design Management 

• Lead engineering design delivery for projects across the UK energy sector, collaborating with senior leadership to assemble and manage high-performing project teams. 

• Take responsibility for the full project lifecycle, from front-end engineering design (FEED) through to project closeout. 

• Manage design-only and design-build (EPC) projects, serving as Project Manager or Design Manager as appropriate. 

• Oversee performance metrics including safety, environmental compliance, resource allocation, schedule, quality, and stakeholder relationships. 

Delivery & Compliance 

• Ensure adherence to all statutory and contractual obligations. 

• Maintain compliance with internal and client-specific design management processes. 

• Coordinate with engineering leads to ensure appropriately skilled team members are assigned to projects. 

• Implement project policies, controls, and execution plans to drive efficiency and quality. 

Stakeholder Engagement & Reporting 

• Lead regular reporting on progress, budget, scheduling, procurement, and risk. 

• Facilitate project and client meetings, ensuring alignment across all disciplines and stakeholders. 

• Contribute to proposal preparation, client presentations, and contract negotiations with support from senior management. 

Health, Safety & Quality 

• Promote a “Safety by Design” culture and ensure technical excellence. 

• Apply industry best practices to enhance constructability, maintainability, and operability of projects across the asset lifecycle. 

• Maintain compliance with UK health, safety, and environmental regulations, including CDM Regulations. 

Leadership & Business Development 

• Support the development and mentoring of junior staff, helping to identify training needs and provide technical guidance. 

• Build and maintain strong client relationships to identify and pursue new business opportunities. 

• Assist in strategic business planning, identifying future talent requirements and participating in recruitment and interviews. 

Strategic & Operational Support 

• Interpret and apply company policies and project strategies. 

• Support departmental goal-setting, performance monitoring, and implementation of standards. 

• Actively contribute to a culture of innovation, continuous improvement, and client success. 

 

Candidate Requirements 

Qualifications & Experience 

• Degree in an engineering discipline relevant to electricity transmission & distribution. 

• Minimum 3 years’ experience delivering engineering design services. 

• Strong understanding of project and design management methodologies (e.g., APM, PMP, PRINCE2). 

• Proven experience in a design management role on UK electricity transmission projects. 

• Familiarity with UK Health & Safety and Environmental legislation related to construction and design. 

• Competency in CDM Regulations and experience as a Principal Designer representative. 

Technical Skills 

• Proficient in using Microsoft Office tools, including MS Project. 

• Sound contract management knowledge, especially NEC contracts. 

• Knowledge of National Grid procedures and standards (e.g., TP106, TP135, TP137, TP184, etc.). 

• Understanding of impressed voltage and procedural controls for temporary works in line with British Standards. 

Soft Skills & Capabilities 

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills. 

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively. 

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills. 

• Leadership ability with a focus on coaching and team development. 

• Proactive mindset and engagement in industry developments and best practices. 

Certifications 

• Health & Safety qualification required (e.g., IOSH Managing Safely, NEBOSH Certificate/Diploma, or equivalent NVQ Level 3+).