Senior Design Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full design lifecycle—from creative concept through detailed design and production handover.
• Oversee multidisciplinary design teams (concept artists, CAD technicians, 3D modelers, engineers, scenic designers).
• Translate creative briefs into actionable design strategies, ensuring alignment with project scope, budgets, and timelines.
• Review and approve drawings, 3D models, material specifications, storyboards, and technical documentation.
• Collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, and fabrication teams to ensure design intent is technically feasible and production-ready.
• Manage client communication for all design-related matters, including presentations, revisions, and technical clarifications.
• Coordinate design schedules, resource allocation, design workflows, and version control.
• Ensure compliance with safety guidelines, engineering constraints, and buildability requirements.
• Support procurement teams with technical spec sheets, material lists, and vendor coordination.
• Provide creative direction and mentorship to the design department.

Technical & Professional Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Industrial Design, Architecture, Engineering, Scenic Design, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in design management within themed entertainment, creative fabrication, attractions, events, or similar industries.
• Strong proficiency with design and visualization software: AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Rhino, SketchUp, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and relevant 3D rendering tools.
• Demonstrated experience interpreting engineering drawings and integrating mechanical, structural, and electrical requirements into design.
• Understanding of fabrication methods including carpentry, metalwork, scenic painting, props, animatronics, and interactive technologies.
• Exceptional ability to convert creative vision into practical and manufacturable design solutions.
• Strong leadership, team management, and stakeholder communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under fast-paced timelines.
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving ability.

Contract Type: Full-time FTC contract

Location : Birmingham

Ideal start date: 15 August 2026 (flexibility available for the right candidate)