Lead Design Manager

Job DescriptionLondon Gatwick is on a journey of transformationand we're looking for a Lead Design Manager to help shape the infrastructure of one of the UK's busiest and most innovative airports. This is a rare opportunity to take a pivotal role in leading the design management functionacross Gatwick's Capital Investment Programme, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, cost-effective, and forward-thinking engineering solutions.nWhat is the role?nnLead and oversee all design management activities across Gatwick's construction projects.nSet and embed design management procedures that drive consistency, clarity, and quality across the project lifecycle.nLead and mentor a team of design specialists, fostering a high-performance culture and identifying future talent.nAssure key project stages, validating technical proposals and ensuring alignment with strategic goals.nMonitor and evaluate external design consultants to drive continuous improvement in delivery quality and efficiency.nEnsure all designs meet cost benchmarks and challenge conventional approaches where innovation can add value.nChampion industry best practice to streamline processes and minimise rework.nPromote health, safety, and environmental excellence in all design related activities, including the fulfilment of Principal Designer duties.nManage the graduate engineering programme and maintain engagement with professional institutions.nSupport safety tours, inspections, and reporting across capital programmes.nDrive continuous improvement and innovation across design processes.nnWhat are we looking for?nnDegree-level qualification (or equivalent) in engineering, construction, or a related field.nChartered status with a recognised engineering institution (highly desirable).nA strong background in engineering design or design management within complex infrastructure programmes (typically of 50m+ value).nProven leadership of multidisciplinary teams and oversight of external design consultants.nStrong grasp of design risk management; IOSH-accredited Principal Designer certification is advantageous.nDemonstrable knowledge of quality management, capital project delivery, and business process optimisation.nExcellent stakeholder engagement and communication skills.nProject management qualifications (e.g. APMP, Prince2 Practitioner) are a plus.nPrevious experience in operational environments (such as aviation) is desirable.nA track record of delivering results in high-pressure, fast-paced settings.nnWhat do I get?nOur employees tell us that working here is something special, and no day is like another, where our teams do something every day that other airports only dream of. Along with a competitive salary, our employees enjoy a range of personal, health and financial benefits, including:nnWelcome BonusnPerformance-based bonus schemenHigh street shops and restaurant discountsnHealthcare schemenLife and disability insurancenProfessional training to developnProfessional subscriptionsnDiscounted travelnVolunteer daysnnnWhat it's like to work at London Gatwick?nOur people are our biggest asset. We want people to thrive and have the best experience while working with us. We know we are all at our best when we feel comfortable and included.nWe are an organisation that places diversity, equity and inclusion at its heart. We aim to create a place where everyone belongs and has a voice, and we recognise we all play an important role in our success.nTo find out more about what it's like to work at Gatwick, visit our careers site Careers | Grow your career with Gatwick Airport LGWnShould you require any reasonable adjustments to be made as part of the application process, please contact us directly.nClick apply to start your career with Gatwick.n

Created: 2025-08-03