MEPH Design Manager / Head of Design

M&E Design Manager / Head of Design
Essex / London £70,000-£100,000 + Package
We are seeking a highly capable M&E Design Manager / Head of Design to take a leading role in shaping and steering design delivery within the MEPH (Mechanical, Electrical, Public Health) sector. This is a senior position requiring a balance of technical depth, commercial acumen, and leadership skills to ensure designs are innovative, compliant, and commercially viable.
The Role
You will act as the bridge between pre-construction and delivery, leading design assurance and ensuring projects are fully coordinated, cost-effective, and buildable. Responsibilities include:

• Reviewing and critiquing consultant designs to ensure compliance with codes, standards, and client requirements.
• Managing multidisciplinary design inputs and coordinating services across MEPH.
• Driving value engineering opportunities, design risk management, and buildability reviews.
• Preparing and managing design deliverables in line with tender and project programmes.
• Leading design workshops with consultants, clients, and stakeholders.
• Supporting estimators and procurement with technical and commercial input.
• Guiding and influencing design teams to deliver clear, accurate, and competitive solutions.

What We're Looking For

• Strong grounding in mechanical, electrical, and public health building services.
• Experience managing design through pre-construction and into delivery.
• Knowledge of BS, CIBSE, and industry regulations.
• Commercially aware with a strong grasp of cost planning and value engineering.
• Skilled at managing expectations, resolving conflicts, and communicating at all levels.
• Proficient in coordinating BIM/digital design tools and document control processes.
• Leadership qualities with the ability to mentor and influence under pressure.

Package & Progression

• £70,000-£100,000 depending on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Genuine opportunity to shape the design function at a senior level.
• Clear progression path to grow within a rapidly expanding M&E contractor.