Design Manager

Design Manager

Location Chertsey, Surrey

Sector Data Centres & Mission Critical Construction

Salary £60,000 - £70,000 + Package

The Opportunity

A leading specialist contractor is looking to appoint an experienced Design Manager to support Phase 2 of a major data centre development in Chertsey. Following the successful completion of Phase 1, which included a 16.8MW data centre, energy centre, ancillary building, services gantry, extensive external works and CAT A office space, the next phase is due to commence in late 2026 / early 2027.

You will join the project at an important stage, giving you the opportunity to influence design delivery before main construction activity accelerates. The role will suit someone who enjoys bringing together complex design information, solving technical issues early and making sure the design genuinely supports procurement, buildability and programme certainty.

Role Overview

You will lead day-to-day design delivery from pre-construction through to completion, coordinating consultants, designers and specialist subcontractors so that information is issued accurately and in line with programme requirements. You will manage design programmes, chair reviews and make sure interfaces between architectural, structural, civil, fire, acoustic, landscape, BIM and building services disciplines are fully coordinated.

You will ensure Employer's Requirements, Contractor's Proposals, Building Regulations and CDM obligations are understood and reflected throughout the design process. You will be expected to identify design risks early, challenge proposals where necessary and drive value engineering opportunities that improve buildability and commercial outcomes without compromising performance or quality.

Once construction is underway, you will remain closely involved with the delivery team, ensuring approved information is available ahead of works, resolving technical queries and overseeing the production of as-built information and O&M documentation. You will also support and mentor Design Coordinators and Assistant Design Managers as the project team grows.

About You

You are an experienced Design Manager who has successfully managed design through both pre-construction and live construction phases. You have strong technical knowledge, understand how design decisions affect procurement and programme, and are confident coordinating multidisciplinary teams on complex projects.

You are comfortable with Building Regulations, CDM, design reviews, approvals and change control, and you have a practical approach to value engineering and design optimisation. Data centre or mission-critical experience would be highly advantageous, although candidates from healthcare, pharmaceutical, advanced manufacturing or other technically complex sectors will also be considered.

You will ideally be degree qualified or have equivalent professional experience, hold an appropriate CSCS Card and have a relevant industry qualification through RIBA, CIOB, ICE or a similar professional body.

Company Profile

This specialist contractor delivers complex design, engineering and construction projects across the data, defence and energy sectors. Its integrated approach spans site acquisition and architecture through to construction, refurbishment, commissioning and client occupation. With more than 40 years of specialist experience and a strong pipeline of major projects, the business offers excellent long-term opportunities for ambitious design professionals.

What’s in it for you?

• 💰 £60,000 - £70,000 salary
• 🚗 Car allowance
• 🏥 BUPA Healthcare & Cash Plan
• 💷 Competitive pension scheme
• ⚡ Electric vehicle scheme
• 🚲 Cycle to Work scheme
• 👓 Eyecare vouchers
• 🎂 25 days holiday + Bank Holidays + Birthday off
• 🏗️ Phase 2 of a major 16.8MW data centre development

About Walker & Sloan

Walker & Sloan are a BCorp certified recruitment business specialising in construction and the built environment. I, Jack Houghton, work closely with contractors, developers and consultancies across the UK and handle all applications with complete confidentiality.

Next Steps

If you would like to hear more about this opportunity, get in touch for a confidential conversation.