Our Water and Rail facing client are seeking a Water Design Lead to head up design for a tier 1 Water contractor based in the South East on a permanent basis.

The ideal candidate will be based on the South Coast (initially working remotely) with occasional visits to Manchester and London offices for end client meetings.

You will be managing a multidisciplinary water design team in the South East, delivering high-quality design solutions aligned with strategic objectives. Broad experience of civils, mechanical, electrical and process design is required but the candidate can specialise in one particular area.

Key Responsibilities

Establish and lead a new satellite office in the South East region.
Identify, attract, and retain local engineering and management talent.
Manage, direct, and develop the team, fostering a positive ethos and collaborative culture.
Plan and grow the team to align with strategic objectives and maintain an effective organisational structure.
Ensure all work follows client design processes and procedures.
Oversee production of design deliverables that meet safety, quality, and integration requirements.
Ensure timely delivery of design outputs within agreed timescales and budgets.
Promote use of appropriate standards, best practices, and software tools.
Maintain accurate records of project changes for design packages.

Skills/experience/qualifications

Minimum 10 years' experience in a regulated engineering sector such as:
Water
Rail
Oil & Gas
Nuclear
Highways or Bridges
Degree or HND in Engineering.
Strong IT skills.
Proven track record managing multidisciplinary design teams and projects.
Experience in building and developing teams.
Significant experience in the regulated water industry.
Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.
Chartered or working towards chartership with a recognised professional body in engineering or management.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package.
Opportunity to shape and grow a new regional team.
Professional development and career progression.
Flexible working arrangements