Department Design Manager

We are currently seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to take on the role of Design Department Manager in Norfolk.
This pivotal position involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of a bustling design department. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in ensuring the efficiency and success of our bespoke design projects.
Responsibilities:
* Design Oversight:
* Review and approve bespoke designs and manufacturing drawings.
* Plan and monitor the design workload to ensure timely and budget-conscious completion.
* Drive improvements in departmental efficiency, presenting business cases for necessary budgets.
* Technical Expertise:
* Utilise a mechanical design engineering background, with an advantage if possessing some electrical knowledge.
* Collaborate with the manufacturing department to align designs with production techniques, capacities, and limitations.
* Liaise with sales and project management teams to plan project timescales and deliver client needs.
* Project Management:
* Report design projects to the project department as required.
* Record and communicate project changes effectively to all involved parties.
* Team Development:
* Mentor the Senior Design Engineer, promoting design standardisation in a bespoke solutions environment.
* Assist in the development of management skills for the Senior Design Engineer.
* Continuous Improvement:
* Monitor Engineering Change Notice records and production feedback for continuous improvement.
* Develop parametric solutions for standard products in the US market to reduce lead time.
* Innovation and Leadership:
* Lead innovation in bespoke product design to enhance value engineering, product reliability, and performance.
* Ensure proficiency in AutoCAD & 3D Autodesk Inventor and optimal usage.
* Utilise Autodesk Vault as the central repository for all models and drawings.
* Communication and Liaison:
* Act as a technical liaison with clients, architects, and other departments within the company.
* Collaborate with the NPD team to share ideas and technologies between bespoke and standard products.
* Template Development:
* Develop design templates and parametric solutions for common product configurations.
* Aim to improve design efficiencies and reduce the risk of untested designs in manufacturing.
* International Opportunities:
* The role offers progression opportunities, including international development.
* Qualifications:
* Some experience in a field related to construction products and familiarity with liaising with architects and project managers would be advantageous.
If you are a proactive and skilled professional ready to take on a challenging yet rewarding position, apply now or contact Lewis Woollard direct on .