Design Manager

Job Title: Design Manager – Data Centre Projects

Location: London

Employment Type: Permenant 

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Design Manager with a proven track record of delivering complex, large-scale data centre projects. This individual will play a pivotal role in managing and coordinating the design process from concept through to delivery, ensuring that the technical, operational, and commercial objectives are achieved.

The successful candidate will act as the key interface between clients, design teams, contractors, and internal stakeholders, ensuring design integrity, compliance with standards, and alignment with overall project strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the end-to-end design process on mission-critical data centre projects.

• Ensure design compliance with local building codes, international data centre standards, and client requirements.

• Develop and manage design programmes, schedules, and deliverables to align with project milestones.

• Oversee design reviews, value engineering sessions, and technical workshops.

• Manage design changes and ensure proper documentation and communication of design decisions.

• Work closely with construction, procurement, and operations teams to ensure seamless transition from design to delivery.

• Maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, and key stakeholders to manage expectations and achieve project objectives.

Experience & Qualifications

• Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related technical discipline.

• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Lead on data centre or other mission-critical infrastructure projects (e.g., hospitals, laboratories, clean rooms).

• Strong understanding of MEP and architectural coordination for large-scale technical facilities.

• Familiarity with international data centre design standards (e.g., Uptime Institute Tier Standards, ASHRAE guidelines).

• Experience working with BIM and digital design processes.

• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills.

• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills

• Chartered Engineer or Architect status (or working towards).

• Experience with sustainability and energy efficiency strategies in data centre design.

• Strong commercial awareness and ability to balance technical and cost considerations.

• Familiarity with commissioning and operational handover processes.