WSP in the UK & Ireland
Design Manager - PMCM Rail
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Design Manager - PMCM Rail
Senior Project & Design Manager – London
About WSP
We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by a common purpose: creating positive, long-lasting impacts on the communities we serve. With 9,000+ professionals across the UK and Ireland, we combine local dedication with international expertise, driving innovation, integrity, and inclusion in everything we do.
About the Team
Based in our London Office, our diverse, inclusive, and enthusiastic team of Project and Design Managers delivers tailored solutions for clients. Our work shapes the Built Environment through design management, and we strive to be the best in our field. If you’re looking for a challenging, rewarding role with professional development opportunities, we’d love to hear from you.
Role Details
The Senior Project & Design Manager supports and leads design and project delivery in a dynamic environment. Key responsibilities include:
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Stakeholder & Communication Management
- Drive clear, two-way communication with internal teams and external clients
- Chair Design Team Meetings (DTMs) and ensure actions are tracked and completed
- Act as a bridge between technical, programme, and cost disciplines
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Technical & Commercial Coordination
- Resolve technical queries holistically, balancing cost and programme considerations
- Proactively manage change control, leveraging a strong understanding of scope and design responsibility
- Review design documentation, quotations, and technical communications to align with budget, scope, and client expectations
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Process Improvement & Efficiency
- Strengthen project management processes, including RFI responses and change control
- Minimise risks, delays, and inefficiencies by maintaining rigorous records and updating delivery programmes
- Promote innovation and buildability throughout all design stages
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Team Support & Leadership
- Oversee multiple work packages and support the Lead Design Delivery Manager in team and delivery oversight
- Uphold high standards of design quality and compliance across projects
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Requirements
Essential:
- Degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., construction management, engineering, architecture (ARB/RIBA), science, or quantity surveying)
- Experience of delivering major projects in a client-side or consultancy environment, particularly for major UK institutions
- Examples: Government, infrastructure, education, healthcare, or commercial sectors
- Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain strong stakeholder/client relationships
- Proven track record of technical problem-solving, cost control, and programme management
Advantageous:
- Chartered Membership (or near-chartered status) of a professional body (e.g., ARB, RIBA, MICE, CEng, IEEE, APM, PMI)
- PRINCE2®, ISO 55000, or Six Sigma certifications
- Experience with subcontracting, contract management, and/or portfolio-based PMU environments
- Confidence presenting design strategy, risk mitigation, and process improvements to senior stakeholders
Core Skills:
- Ability to **ah*nse", "problem-solving", and "mentor", ensuring they clearly summarise key points and expectations
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for diverse audiences
- Curiosity and initiative – commitment to understanding client-centred challenges
- Logical organiser with high attention to detail
Work Commitment:
- On-site presence required (3 days per week)
Why Join WSP?
Work-Life Balance
WSP believes work should complement your life. Our hybrid policy allows:
- 2 days per week remote working (with collaboration days spent onsite)
- Flexibility to make personal time through the WSP My Hour policy (1-hour daily allowances to be managed flexibly)
- Options for part-time, job share, or flexible arrangements
- Flexible bank holiday entitlement
- Paid leave options including extra leave for those who wish to build additional holidays
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Inclusion & Belonging
We celebrate diversity, authenticity, and belonging in workforce representation. Our initiatives include:
- Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) – connecting diverse teams and allies to promote inclusivity
- Advantage of representing global/client bases in London
- LGBTQ+, gender pay parity, and disability-led initiatives
Health & Wellbeing
Our commitment to your wellbeing ensures thrive under positive conditions, including:
- Thrive programme – Mental health and performance support
- Virtual GP service (aligns with NHS/Irish Medical Council standards) – immediate access to medical advice
- Menopause support programme and workplace adjustments
- Gymflex scheme – Up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our flexible benefits package
Your Development
Investing in your career growth is a priority:
- Access to training, mentorship, and chartership programmes
- Opportunity to lead on high-profile, complex projects, fostering both challenging and supportive environments
Our Commitment to Diversity
We equally and actively encourage applications from all individuals, regardless of:
- Age, gender, ethnicity, protected characteristics, neurodiversity, or disability
As a Disability Confident leader, we guarantee interviews for disabled candidates meeting the requirements. Please inform us at the application stage of any accessibility needs.
Apply now with "Senior Project & Design Manager" in the subject for London, currently recruiting at caldarego@hlsassociates.com—ovia online HR systems. Put your expertise to the test with a role that transforms communities through innovation and integrity.
TL;DR?
→ Drive lucrative design projects, lead cross-disciplinary teams, and shape the future of infrastructure and engineering.
→ Thrive in an ever-evolving environment—hybrid work since odd days kitted to collaboration can experience at leading firms.
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