JDL Recruitment

Senior Design Manager

Posted: Oct 29, 2025

Job Description

JDL Recruitment are excited to be partnering with a fast growing data centre developer who are hiring an experienced Senior Design Manager in Lisbon.This is a hybrid opportunity offering a local package, including a basic salary, annual bonus, long term share incentive, pension and healthcare. ResponsibilitiesPrepare and execute Architectural and Engineering Consultant Agreements, clearly definingScope of Work, Services, and Fees based on the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).Lead the procurement process for services, including managing Request for Proposals(RFPs), and evaluate proposals to justify selections.Review and approve consultant invoices, proactively managing project budgets, and leading value engineering initiatives to ensure cost alignment.Oversee consultant workload distribution to ensure balanced output and the delivery of quality design work.Collaborate with Project and Cost Managers to develop and manage project-specific design work plans, schedules, and budgets.Collaborate with all project team members and internal stakeholders to ensure all aspects of the design are reviewed and approved as requiredSupervise the project design team (internal and external) to deliver high-quality designsolutions.Represent the organization in regular design and project meetings, providing stakeholders with updates on design elements and any changes.Oversee design development and ensure the production of accurate construction documents and specifications.Oversee and supervise the Contractor’s design efforts, especially during RIBA Stage 4(Technical Design) and RIBA Stage 5 (Construction), ensuring the designs adhere to thecontract documentation.Ensure that the Contractor’s design aligns with local specifics such as climate, workforce standards, and regulatory requirements.Monitor the consistency between the OPR and construction documents, flagging and documenting any deviations for resolution.Conduct regular QA/QC reviews of the Contractor’s design submissions, ensuring all deliverables meet the project’s quality standards and compliance requirements.Ensure close collaboration with the Contractor during construction to resolve design issues swiftly and ensure alignment between design and site execution.Review and manage (end-user driven) design change requests during all stages of design.Provide design input to balance end-user requirements with project constraints.Ensure customer requirements are interpreted, verified, and documented, aiming for a 100% satisfaction rate.Support project team in presenting design solutions to stakeholders, including end-users.RequirementsDegree in Design, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field.Minimum of 5 years of experience in data centres or specialized facilities, focusing on CSA and MEP systems development.Experience leading multi-disciplinary design teams and managing new construction, tenant improvements, and capital improvement projects.Proven expertise in consultant negotiation and management.Strong understanding of contractual obligations, building regulations, and project delivery frameworks (RIBA).Proficient in interpreting design and construction drawings, project schedules, budgets, and cost estimates.Strong understanding of Civil, Structural, Mechanical, and Electrical design concepts.Expertise in construction projects, particularly data centres, with a strong focus on MEP systems.

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