Design Manager

Design Manager – HMP Hindley

Location: Wigan (HMP Hindley)

Business Unit: Wates Construction – Construction West

Contract Type: Permanent

Build Something That Matters

At Wates, we're delivering a major redevelopment at HMP Hindley—a flagship, purpose-led project transforming the estate into a modern, safe, and forward-thinking custodial environment that supports rehabilitation and meaningful change. This is more than just construction. It's a chance to be part of something with real social impact.

We're now looking for a Design Manager to join our team and help deliver this complex and rewarding project.

About the Role

As Design Manager, you'll coordinate and manage the design process across the project lifecycle—working at the heart of a collaborative, high-performing team.

You'll play a key role in turning design intent into deliverable solutions, ensuring quality, compliance, and buildability throughout.

You will:

Coordinate design development as we springboard off the back of RIBA stage 4 through to delivery

Work closely with client, consultants, project teams, and supply chain partners

Ensure designs meet client requirements, technical standards, and programme constraints

Identify and manage design risks and solutions proactively

Contribute to a positive, collaborative team culture on site

What We're Looking For

We're looking for someone who combines strong technical capability with a proactive, team-focused approach.

You'll bring:

Experience as a Design Manager within construction or a complex project environment

Strong understanding of multidisciplinary design coordination

Confidence working with internal stakeholders and external partners

Confidence working with clear reportable deliverables, keeping the wider team aware of status

A solutions-focused mindset with excellent problem-solving ability

Strong organisational and communication skills

Why Join Wates?

Work on a secured long term high-profile, purpose-led project making a real difference

Be part of a collaborative and supportive project team

Opportunity to grow your career in a business that invests in people

Help shape environments that improve lives and communities