Job Title:
Client-Side Design Manager
Location:
Portugal
The Company
Our client is a trusted partner for some of the world's leading data centre developers and investors. They provide specialised Data Centre Construction services and their team includes experts in project management, development strategy, cost control, procurement, and technical advisory services, all working together to deliver comprehensive solutions that achieve their clients strategies.
The Role
Our client is seeking an experienced Client-Side Design Manager to lead and coordinate the design delivery of a major hyperscale data centre development in Sinas, Portugal. The successful candidate will serve as the single point of accountability for design management, ensuring alignment between project objectives, design intent, schedule, and budget.
Key Responsibilities
* Represent the Client/Developer in all design-related matters.
* Lead multidisciplinary design management across architectural, structural, MEP, civil, ICT, and specialist systems.
* Act as the primary liaison between the Client, Lead Designer, consultants, and contractors.
* Develop and maintain the Design Management Plan (DMP) in accordance with Grucon standards.
* Manage the Design Programme, Design Responsibility Matrix (DRM), and Design Risk Register.
* Implement and oversee Design Change Control and ensure compliance with EN 50600 / ISO 22237, BREEAM, and local Portuguese permitting standards.
* Chair and minute design coordination meetings; track and resolve design issues.
* Coordinate with permitting, cost, and construction teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
* Manage BIM deliverables and ensure compliance with ISO 19650 information management.
* Support procurement, tendering, and contractor design integration.
* Produce regular reports on design progress, risks, and key decisions for the client.
Key Requirements
* Minimum 7 years' experience managing multidisciplinary design teams on mission- critical or data centre projects.
* Proven track record of delivering projects in Europe, with a solid understanding of local regulations and standards.
* Strong technical knowledge of data centre design, including cooling systems and electrical redundancy.
* Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
* Proficient in BIM-based coordination and ISO 19650 document control principles.
Qualifications:
* Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or related discipline.
* Membership or certification with a relevant professional body preferred (e.g., RIBA, CIBSE, PMI).
* BREEAM or LEED accreditation advantageous.
* EU Passport or Visa which allows them to work in Portugal.
Deliverables:
* Design Management Plan (DMP).
* Design Programme and Progress Reports.
* Design Responsibility Matrix (DRM).
* Design Risk Register and Change Control Log.
* Design Review Notes and Action Trackers.
* Weekly/Monthly Client Reports.
Languages:
• Fluent English (spoken and written).
MLQS Ltd values diversity and promotes equality. No terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010. We encourage and welcome applications from all sections of society and are more than happy to discuss reasonable adjustments and/or additional arrangements as required to support your application.
For the purposes of the Conduct Regulations 2003, when advertising permanent vacancies we are acting as an Employment Agency, and when advertising temporary/contract vacancies we are acting as an Employment Business.