Design Manager

Design Manager - Energy / Overhead Line (OHL)

Location: Derby / Nottingham (Hybrid Working)
Contract: 4-5 Months (Potentially until Easter 2027)
Start Date: ASAP
IR35 Status: Inside IR35
Payment: PAYE or Umbrella PAYE
Working Pattern: Typically Monday-Thursday office-based, Friday working from home

The Opportunity

We are currently seeking an experienced Design Manager - Energy to join a major transmission infrastructure project in the Nottingham area.

This is an excellent opportunity for a proven Design Manager with a strong background in Overhead Line (OHL) transmission projects, ideally with previous experience working on National Grid schemes.

You will take ownership of the design management function, overseeing the performance and delivery of an appointed external design consultant. Working closely with the Project Manager, you will provide leadership, governance and assurance across the design workstream, ensuring all design deliverables meet the required technical standards, programme milestones and client expectations.

You will play a key role in maintaining control of the design programme, identifying potential risks and driving performance, providing confidence to both project stakeholders and National Grid that design activities are progressing effectively.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and coordinate the activities and performance of the appointed external design consultant.
Monitor, manage and report on design progress against agreed programme milestones.
Ensure design deliverables meet project requirements, technical standards and client expectations.
Identify, manage and mitigate design risks, issues and programme constraints.
Provide detailed progress updates, technical feedback and reporting to the Project Manager.
Act as the key point of contact between the project team, design consultant and National Grid stakeholders.
Provide robust design governance, oversight and assurance throughout the project.
Challenge and support the design team to improve delivery, quality and overall performance.
Proactively manage design interfaces and drive timely resolution of outstanding issues.

Essential Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must demonstrate:

Strong experience in Overhead Line (OHL) transmission infrastructure projects.
Previous experience working on National Grid projects.
A thorough understanding of National Grid standards, processes and stakeholder requirements.
Proven experience managing external design consultants on complex infrastructure projects.
The ability to manage design delivery at both strategic and detailed operational levels.
Strong stakeholder management, communication and reporting skills.
The ability to quickly establish control, visibility and accountability across a design programme.

Desirable: Previous experience working with WSP would be highly advantageous.

Working Arrangements

The successful candidate will typically work Monday to Thursday in the office, with Friday working from home.

The role will involve working from the client's Derby office, alongside office space at:

MSI Office - Unit 2, Stirling House, Wheatcroft Business Park, Landmere Lane, NG12 4DG.

Ideally, candidates will be available to work from the client office approximately three days per week, with the remaining office-based time at the MSI location.

Interview Process

Initial Teams interview with the Senior Design Manager and Project Manager