Senior Design Manager
About the job
- Thorough with a proactive management style.
- Capability to lead and coordinate with managers across a wider team.
- Ability to prioritise and delegate as appropriate, effectively negotiate, motivate and communicate in order to influence others to ensure that the required objectives are met.
- An analytical approach to work with an eye for detail.
- Leadership skills including assertiveness, decisiveness, flexibility, good time management, organisation, effective meeting leadership and participation, the ability to work well under pressure, and the ability to meet strict deadlines.
- Ability to review drawings and identify buildability and technical issues.
- Effective people management of direct reports, including goal setting, performance management, giving feedback, direction, support and coaching.
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Effective communication with all levels of management and project teams, both internal and external to the company.
- A proven track record of successfully managing all aspects of the design and technical process in relation to residential buildings.
- Up-to-date relevant construction industry knowledge, including legislation and procedures.
- A valid driving licence.
- Knowledge of methodology and sequencing processes for delivering a construction project, including design and pre-construction activities.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- High-rise development experience.
- Understanding of the building safety legislative framework, including the Building Safety Act, Building Regulations, dutyholder roles and competency requirements, and the HRB Procedure Regulations.
- Strong technical knowledge and skillset to assess, challenge and monitor design work compliance.
- Experience in designer scoping.
- Ensure that the design is fully coordinated and complies with United Infrastructure requirements and current regulations to achieve necessary approvals and enable a start on site in line with agreed programmes and safety standards.
- Lead technical and design processes, design teams and subcontractors throughout design, procurement and construction, monitoring progress to ensure delivery on time and within budget.
- Manage the technical design of schemes in accordance with the agreed programme, ensuring company targets are met and maximising revenue through design quality, cost effectiveness and buildability.
- Review and contribute to allocated bids, undertaking technical appraisals of design information, assessing design requirements, compliance, consultant fee requirements and the design programme.
- Assess the quality of received information, identify value-engineering opportunities and risks, collate consultant costs, and prepare contractor proposals.
- Review employer’s requirements technical specifications.
- Produce, develop, control and manage project-specific design programmes and provide regular progress reports.
- Produce detailed project-specific design scopes and undertake procurement of consultant and subcontractor designers.
- Assess completed competency assessment questionnaires and supporting evidence from consultant and subcontractor designers.
- Monitor and manage consultant fees and invoicing.
- Fulfil the CDM Principal Designer role.
- Fulfil the Building Regulations Principal Designer role and be named as the Designated Individual.
- Thoroughly review and interrogate consultant and subcontractor designs to ensure compliance with applicable legislation, system literature and planning consent, as well as buildability, completeness, presentation, best value, accuracy and required information levels, ultimately eliminating risk.
- Review and assess alternative build methods and practices.
- Manage and coordinate external consultants in their day-to-day design, coordination and technical duties relating to production information, ensuring delivery within time, quality, budget and technical constraints.
- Ensure that designs comply with company standards.
- Promote designs that respect budgetary constraints.
- Organise and manage weekly, fortnightly or monthly technical coordination workshops, package reviews and design team meetings.
- Ensure all aspects of building design are fully coordinated, including fire safety, structures, mechanical and electrical systems, façades, internal specification, service strategies and maintenance strategies.
- Ensure complete, correct and coordinated packages are issued to Commercial and Construction teams.
- Establish the required scope for survey and investigative works.
- Maintain and deliver work in accordance with company values.
- Manage subcontractor and supplier design approvals and ensure timely turnaround.
- Monitor subcontractor design approvals and maintain a tracker in line with the programme.
- Manage the flow of information to Commercial, Operations and the client.
- Update and coordinate monthly design schedules.
- Chair and undertake design package presentations with consultant and subcontractor designers.
- Review and coordinate design and technical issues with the Commercial and Operations teams.
- Monitor changes from the client, design consultants, subcontractors and proposed changes from the construction team.
- Manage the change-control process for variations relating to drawing revisions, construction programmes and costs.
- Collate required information and liaise with Planning Authorities and Building Control to make submissions in accordance with the programme and obtain necessary approvals.
- Oversee document control for the registration and distribution of design and technical information.
- Monitor and manage information processing through workflows on the document management system.
- Ensure current drawings are filed correctly and design information exchange follows company protocol.
- Undertake site visits as required.
- Attend site meetings and monthly or weekly project meetings.
- Monitor work executed on site to ensure it is benchmarked and completed as designed and specified.
- Manage, investigate and promptly respond to, and fully close out, requests for information from site teams and subcontractors.
- Review and advise on corrective measures for identified design issues.
- Monitor and obtain critical certificates to ensure documentation is in place for completion and handovers.
- Oversee and participate in collating handover information, the golden thread, health and safety files, operation and maintenance manuals, and resident packs.
- Comply with company policies, procedures and instructions.
- Comply with responsibilities under the group’s health, safety and environmental policy.
- Ensure United Living’s health and safety objectives are delivered across all aspects of the work.
- A proven track record of design requirements for procurement and construction purposes.
- In-depth knowledge of contractual requirements, section agreements and utility application processes.
- Strong practical knowledge of construction work types, methods and design solutions.
- Experience producing and managing design programmes.
- Knowledge of PAS 9980 fire risk assessments, EWS1s and FRAEW.
- Temporary works knowledge and experience.
- Experience with computer-aided design, including AutoCAD or Revit.
- Knowledge and understanding of Building Information Modelling.
- Membership of a relevant professional body, such as CIOB, CIAT or RICS.
- A minimum Level 4 HNC/NVQ4 architectural qualification, or an equivalent design, technical or construction-based qualification.
About the company
United Infrastructure provides critical infrastructure services in the UK for water, energy, power, telecoms, and property services, organized into Utility Infrastructure and Social Infrastructure for public and private sector clients. It earns revenue from major project contracts and long-term maintenance frameworks, including social housing repairs and asset upkeep. The company differentiates itself by growing through acquisitions to expand technical capabilities, adding groups such as the Simkiss Group and John Wood Group’s UK Transmission and Distribution unit. Its goal is to strengthen its role in the critical infrastructure and energy transition by expanding its technical footprint and customer base through selective acquisitions and durable project delivery.
Company Size
1,001-5,000
Company Stage
N/A
Total Funding
N/A
Headquarters
United Kingdom
Founded
2004
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- July 2026 revenue reached £845.8 million; EBITDA rose 49% to £102.2 million.
- Liverpool Bay CCS, August 2026, pushed actuators into production with Rotork.
- Guinness Partnership awarded £364 million across 20,000 homes, starting November 2025.
What critics are saying
- March 2026 housebuilding exit triggered a £41 million loss and £93 million pre-tax deficit.
- Acquisition integration now spans power, water, telecoms, and property services; execution risk compounds.
- Liverpool Bay CCS depends on Eni, regulators, and HyNet timing; slippage hits growth.
What makes United Infrastructure unique
- Utility, power, telecoms, and housing maintenance spans multiple recurring UK infrastructure markets.
- £4.6 billion order book and £24 billion pipeline give uncommon revenue visibility.
- Bolt-on buys like Wood T&D and Simkiss deepen capability across the energy stack.
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Benefits
Paid Holidays
Health Insurance
Employee Referral Bonus
Employee Discounts
Professional Development Budget
Training Programs
Company News
Wolverhampton's new Energy Centre: A major leap towards sustainable heating solutions. Key points. * Heath Town Energy Centre will reduce energy costs for over 1,000 residents. * The new facility includes 48 roof-mounted evaporators and hydrogen-ready boilers. * Government funding of £7.5 million supports a £19.5 million overall investment. * New technology aims to reduce carbon emissions by over 500 tonnes annually. The City of Wolverhampton Council has launched the Heath Town Energy Centre, a significant initiative aimed at reducing energy costs and improving the heating infrastructure for over 1,000 residents in the Heath Town estate. This modern facility replaces an aging boiler house that was nearing the end of its serviceable life and faced challenges in sourcing parts for repairs. The new energy centre incorporates advanced technology aligned with enhancements to the heat network supplying all properties in the area. This upgrade will not only efficiently meet the current heating demand but also provide the necessary capacity to support the growth of new homes in Heath Town. The development of the energy centre, executed by Wolverhampton Homes in partnership with United Infrastructure, features state-of-the-art equipment, including 48 roof-mounted evaporators servicing air source heat pumps, along with supplementary hydrogen-ready boilers. Remarkably, this represents one of the few systems of its kind in Europe, showcasing a commitment to innovative and sustainable energy solutions. The project is made possible through a substantial investment of £19.5 million, of which £7.5 million comes from government funding via the Heat Network Efficiency Scheme, while the remaining funds are sourced from the council's Housing Revenue Account Capital Programme. Councillor Steve Evans, the council's Deputy Leader, expressed optimism about the future, stating that the energy centre symbolizes a major investment that will provide a more reliable and sustainable heat network for residents. He emphasized the importance of replacing outdated infrastructure with modern technology, ensuring that the system remains efficient and capable of supporting the anticipated growth of the Heath Town estate as new homes are constructed. The initiative aims to combine energy efficiency with sustainability, contributing to the council's vision of creating greener neighborhoods. Ian Gardner, Director of Housing Operations at Wolverhampton Homes, highlighted the facility's role in reducing carbon emissions by over 500 tonnes per year. This reduction underlines the project's commitment to environmental responsibility alongside the ongoing improvements across the estate. The energy centre reflects the council's dedication to investing in community improvements that enhance residents' living conditions while also fostering a sense of community. Lee Davis, Head of Operations at United Infrastructure, reiterated the focus on improving the quality of life for residents, praising the energy centre for its reliability and potential to reduce energy costs. The collaboration among Wolverhampton Homes, the City of Wolverhampton Council, and United Infrastructure emphasizes a shared commitment to urban regeneration, ensuring that the services and infrastructure meet the needs of the local population. Overall, the Heath Town Energy Centre stands as a testament to innovative energy solutions, benefiting the community both economically and environmentally. October 9, 2026 at 12:30 AM Wolverhampton, United Kingdom
Innovative strategies for safe hydrogen transport pipeline commissioning in the UK. Key points. * Developed a structured framework for commissioning 100% hydrogen pipelines. * Innovative dual-code approach aligns UK regulations with international standards. * Emphasizes safety and regulatory acceptance in hydrogen transport. * Strengthens United Infrastructure's entry into the hydrogen transmission sector. In the UK, a collaborative project led by Dr. Amir Keshmiri from the University of Manchester, in partnership with United Infrastructure Group, has devised an innovative commissioning strategy specifically for hydrogen transport pipelines. As the hydrogen economy gains traction, the need for a reliable and safe infrastructure becomes critical. Traditional natural gas pipeline practices cannot be directly applied to hydrogen due to its unique characteristics, such as low ignition energy and risks of material embrittlement. This new strategy addresses those challenges head-on through a structured technical framework designed to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. The project has developed a hydrogen-specific commissioning methodology using a dual-code approach that integrates both UK regulatory frameworks and international hydrogen guidelines. Recognizing the evolving nature of hydrogen standards, this methodology aims to create a defensible foundation for assurance and regulatory engagement. A key component of this framework is the Commissioning Assurance Register, which connects acceptance criteria, verification testing, and documentation into a cohesive, auditable structure. This framework is intended to ensure that all aspects of the commissioning process, from drying to leak detection and emergency shutdown validation, are rigorously controlled and documented. By establishing practical controls and defining a repeatable template for future hydrogen pipeline projects, the initiative not only enhances safety but also builds internal capabilities within United Infrastructure Group. The approach shifts the perception of commissioning from a mere completion step to a structured assurance process, significantly boosting confidence in hydrogen transmission operations. The impact of this work extends beyond immediate safety protocols; it lays the groundwork for a robust hydrogen transport network in the UK. By fostering an evidence-led strategy, the project reinforces the importance of safety in the development of hydrogen infrastructure, crucial for navigating the regulatory landscape and building public trust in new hydrogen technologies. This initiative represents a significant step towards ensuring that the UK can confidently embrace the hydrogen economy, ultimately supporting its energy transition goals. As the country continues to explore and invest in hydrogen infrastructure, such innovative frameworks will be essential for delivering safe and efficient transport solutions. August 11, 2026 at 12:10 PM United Kingdom
United Infrastructure and Rotork produce first batch of IQ3 Pro intelligent electric actuators. Published: 10 August 2026 Sustainable infrastructure specialists United Infrastructure and flow control solutions expert Rotork celebrated the completion of the first batch of IQ3 Pro intelligent electric actuators rolling off the production line for deployment on Liverpool Bay CCS Limited's (LBCCS) CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project. The work marks significant step in United Infrastructure's decarbonisation programme. The milestone was celebrated during a visit to Rotork's manufacturing facility in Bath by project partners and stakeholders showcasing how UK manufacturing, engineering excellence and collaboration are supporting the delivery of critical infrastructure that will support net zero ambitions. United Infrastructure is delivering critical elements of the Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project, on behalf of LBCCS. Rotork is supporting this nationally significant infrastructure through the design and manufacture of its IQ3 Pro electric actuators in Bath, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the CO[2] transportation network that will transport captured carbon dioxide for permanent offshore storage beneath Liverpool Bay. Manufactured in the UK by a highly skilled British workforce, the actuators represent far more than a production milestone. They demonstrate the strength of the UK's engineering and manufacturing sector, supporting domestic supply chains, creating high-value employment, investing in apprenticeships and developing the next generation of engineering talent. The Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project forms the backbone of HyNet, one of the UK's first low-carbon industrial clusters. Once operational, it will enable carbon emissions from industries across the North West of England and North Wales to be safely transported and permanently stored, helping decarbonise some of the country's most energy-intensive industries while supporting economic growth, inward investment and industrial competitiveness. United Infrastructure and LBCCS were joined by other trade partners, including valve supplier LFF Valvenco and the trade association Energies Industry Council (EIC), who met the teams at Rotork responsible for designing and producing the IQ3 Pro actuators. Guests viewed the first units being prepared for the Liverpool Bay project before discussing the next phase of delivery. Griff Thomas, United Infrastructure's Executive Director of Energy Transition and External Affairs said: "I'm delighted to see the first actuators come off the production line for the Liverpool Bay CO2 Transportation and Storage project. At United Infrastructure, we are committed to investing in a UK workforce, and not just with our own staff, but wherever we can, we will try to source UK-manufactured parts and components so that we can ensure the next generation of the much-needed, highly skilled workforce is available in the UK for the infrastructure revolution that we are going through." Ross Pascoe, chief technology officer at Rotork, commented: "It's fantastic to celebrate this manufacturing milestone alongside our customers and project partners. Seeing products designed and manufactured by our teams in the UK being deployed on a project of this significance is a real source of pride. The Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage project demonstrates how collaboration, engineering expertise and manufacturing excellence can come together to support the infrastructure needed for a lower-carbon future and the UK's net zero ambitions." Bath MP Wera Hobhouse said: "Congratulations to Rotork on this significant milestone. Rotork is part of the crown jewels of Bath business, and I am absolutely delighted to celebrate their continued success. Their investment in local manufacturing capability, engineering excellence and skills development, alongside supporting high-value jobs, apprenticeships and early careers opportunities in its city, makes me incredibly proud. "On a national level, their design and manufacturing work within the CO[2] transportation network is not only a vital contribution to the infrastructure's safe and efficient operation, but also to the UK's critical decarbonisation and net zero aspirations. I applaud their commitment and vision, and that of their partners United Infrastructure and Liverpool Bay CCS Limited." As the Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project progresses, the collaboration between LBCCS, United Infrastructure and Rotork demonstrates how investment in UK infrastructure is creating opportunities far beyond individual projects. From supporting British manufacturing and engineering excellence to creating skilled employment and developing future talent, the project is helping build the industrial capability required to deliver a lower-carbon economy. The UK-manufactured IQ3 Pro actuators rolling off the production line represent an important milestone - not only for the Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project and the wider HyNet programme, but for the UK supply chain that will underpin the country's transition to net zero.
Made in UK: United Infrastructure and Rotork mark major manufacturing milestone with highly skilled British workforce. United Infrastructure's CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project in Liverpool Bay marks significant step in this decarbonisation programme. United Infrastructure and Rotork celebrated the completion of the first batch of IQ3 Pro intelligent electric actuators rolling off the production line for deployment on Liverpool Bay CCS Limited's (LBCCS) CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project, a critical component for the project. The milestone was celebrated during a visit to Rotork's manufacturing facility in Bath by project partners and stakeholders showcasing how UK manufacturing, engineering excellence and collaboration are supporting the delivery of critical infrastructure that will support net zero ambitions. United Infrastructure is delivering critical elements of the Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project, on behalf of LBCCS. Rotork is supporting this nationally significant infrastructure through the design and manufacture of its IQ3 Pro electric actuators in Bath, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the CO[2] transportation network that will transport captured carbon dioxide for permanent offshore storage beneath Liverpool Bay. Manufactured in the UK by a highly skilled British workforce, the actuators represent far more than a production milestone. They demonstrate the strength of the UK's engineering and manufacturing sector, supporting domestic supply chains, creating high-value employment, investing in apprenticeships and developing the next generation of engineering talent. The Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project forms the backbone of HyNet, one of the UK's first low-carbon industrial clusters. Once operational, it will enable carbon emissions from industries across the North West of England and North Wales to be safely transported and permanently stored, helping decarbonise some of the country's most energy-intensive industries while supporting economic growth, inward investment and industrial competitiveness. United Infrastructure and LBCCS were joined by other trade partners, including valve supplier LFF Valvenco and the trade association Energies Industry Council (EIC), who met the teams at Rotork responsible for designing and producing the IQ3 Pro actuators. Guests viewed the first units being prepared for the Liverpool Bay project before discussing the next phase of delivery. Griff Thomas, United Infrastructure's Executive Director of Energy Transition and External Affairs said: "I'm delighted to see the first actuators come off the production line for the Liverpool Bay CO2 Transportation and Storage project. At United Infrastructure, we are committed to investing in a UK workforce, and not just with our own staff, but wherever we can, we will try to source UK-manufactured parts and components so that we can ensure the next generation of the much-needed, highly skilled workforce is available in the UK for the infrastructure revolution that we are going through." Ross Pascoe, Chief Technology Officer at Rotork, commented: "It's fantastic to celebrate this manufacturing milestone alongside our customers and project partners. Seeing products designed and manufactured by our teams in the UK being deployed on a project of this significance is a real source of pride. The Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage project demonstrates how collaboration, engineering expertise and manufacturing excellence can come together to support the infrastructure needed for a lower-carbon future and the UK's net zero ambitions." Bath MP Wera Hobhouse said: "Congratulations to Rotork on this significant milestone. Rotork is part of the crown jewels of Bath business, and I am absolutely delighted to celebrate their continued success. Their investment in local manufacturing capability, engineering excellence and skills development, alongside supporting high-value jobs, apprenticeships and early careers opportunities in our city, makes me incredibly proud. "On a national level, their design and manufacturing work within the CO[2] transportation network is not only a vital contribution to the infrastructure's safe and efficient operation, but also to the UK's critical decarbonisation and net zero aspirations. I applaud their commitment and vision, and that of their partners United Infrastructure and Liverpool Bay CCS Limited." As the Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project progresses, the collaboration between LBCCS, United Infrastructure and Rotork demonstrates how investment in UK infrastructure is creating opportunities far beyond individual projects. From supporting British manufacturing and engineering excellence to creating skilled employment and developing future talent, the project is helping build the industrial capability required to deliver a lower-carbon economy. The UK-manufactured IQ3 Pro actuators rolling off the production line represent an important milestone -not only for the Liverpool Bay CO[2] Transportation and Storage (T&S) project and the wider HyNet programme, but for the UK supply chain that will underpin the country's transition to net zero.
Revenues, EBITDA, up at United Infrastructure. July 30, 2026 14 minutes United Infrastructure has released full year results to 31 March, showing revenues up 17.8% to £845.8m from £718.2m, and EBITDA on continuing operations up 49% to £102.2m. Cash profits on continuing operations before tax rose to £49.6m from £38.4m, and the group's pipeline stood at £24bn gross on 754 opportunities. In the year, the group won new contracts worth £1.7bn and its order book was £4.6bn. "We're thrilled to report a record year of performance for United Infrastructure, with a robust cash position and a growing secured order book that reflects the confidence our clients place in us," said CEO Neil Armstrong. "The long-term drivers across its markets - decarbonisation, resilience, digital connectivity and modernisation of essential infrastructure - continue to accelerate, creating sustained demand for the services Construction Ltd is built to deliver. "Our recent strategic acquisitions have further strengthened our capabilities across power, water, engineering and emerging sectors such as data centres, enhancing the value we bring to clients navigating the UK's energy transition." Got a story? Email [email protected]