Senior Design Manager

Senior Design Manager – HMP Hindley

Location: Wigan (HMP Hindley)

Business Unit: Wates Construction – Construction West

Contract Type: Permanent

Lead Design on a Landmark Project

We are delivering one of the UK's most significant custodial redevelopment projects at HMP Hindley—transforming the site to support safer environments, improved facilities, and better outcomes for rehabilitation.  We're now seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead and shape the design strategy across this complex, high-impact scheme.

This is an opportunity to play a key leadership role on a project that genuinely matters.

About the Role

As Senior Design Manager, you'll lead the design function on site—bringing together teams, disciplines, and stakeholders to ensure successful delivery.

You'll be a key part of the project leadership team, driving quality, innovation, and collaboration across the design lifecycle.

You will:

Work closely with the Principal Design Manager in creating not only an exemplar project but also cultivating an approach to design management that will positively affect the project

Lead and manage the design process across all key stages of delivery

Provide direction and leadership to the design team

Work closely with senior stakeholders and consultants

Ensure design solutions are practical, compliant, and aligned to programme

Drive innovation, risk management, and continuous improvement

Support and mentor the wider design team

What We're Looking For

We're looking for an experienced leader who thrives in a complex, collaborative environment.

You'll bring:

Proven experience as a Senior Design Manager on large-scale construction projects

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

Strong leadership and stakeholder management capability

Deep understanding of multidisciplinary design coordination

Commercial awareness and ability to balance design, cost, and programme

Excellent communication and influencing skills

Why Join Wates?

Play a leading role on a secured long term flagship project

Work alongside a high-calibre, supportive team

Deliver a scheme with genuine social impact and purpose

Be part of a business that values collaboration, innovation, and people