Location: Harlow Engineered Floors Ltd, Loughborough, LE11 5GW
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Hours of Work: 08:00 – 17:00 Monday - Friday
Position Overview:
We are seeking a dedicated Design Manager – IBeam to join our team in Loughborough. The I-Joist Design Manager is responsible for leading, coordinating, and developing a multi-site design function delivering engineered timber floor solutions. This role oversees design operations across two physical branches and a remote team of designers, ensuring high-quality, accurate, and commercially viable design output aligned with customer requirements and company standards.
The position combines technical leadership, people management, and operational efficiency to support business growth, customer satisfaction, and continuous improvement.
What you’ll be doing as a Design Manager for IBeam:
Team Leadership & Management
- Lead, coach, and develop a team of I-joist designers across two branches and remote locations
- Set clear objectives, monitor performance, and carry out regular reviews
- Promote a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement
- Manage workload allocation across sites to ensure capacity and efficiency
Design & Technical Oversight
- Oversee the production of I-joist floor designs, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and buildability
- Ensure all designs meet relevant building regulations, standards, and company procedures
- Provide technical guidance and support to designers and wider teams
- Review complex or high-value projects prior to release
Operational Efficiency
- Manage design workflows across multiple locations to meet agreed turnaround times
- Identify bottlenecks and implement process improvements
- Standardise design practices across all teams and locations
- Monitor KPIs such as design lead times, rework rates, and output quality
Customer & Stakeholder Engagement
- Work closely with sales teams, customers, and site teams to ensure designs meet project requirements
- Support key customer accounts with technical expertise and design solutions
- Handle escalations relating to design issues or customer concerns
Commercial Awareness
- Ensure designs are optimised for cost efficiency without compromising structural integrity
- Support margin improvement through value engineering opportunities
- Collaborate with estimating and sales teams to deliver commercially competitive solutions
Training & Development
- Develop training programmes for new and existing designers
- Ensure competency across design software and engineering standards
- Identify skill gaps and implement development plans
Health, Safety & Compliance
- Ensure all design activities adhere to health and safety standards and best practices
- Promote safe design principles, including buildability and installation safety
Your Skills:
- Proven experience in I-joist or engineered timber design
- Strong technical knowledge of timber engineering and floor systems
- Experience managing multi-site and/or remote teams
- Proficiency in relevant design software (e.g. Steico Konstruct, Mitek Pamir, Finnwood.
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities
- Good understanding of UK building regulations and structural requirements
What We Offer:
Life assurance cover
Access to 24/7 online GP
10% Discount across Harlow Bros. Branches
Employee Assistance Programme
Extras retail discounts & Byond Card
Employee Referral Scheme
In House Training and Recognised Qualifications
How to Apply:
Join us at Harlow Timber Group and become a part of a company that values quality, integrity, and teamwork. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!
Harlow Timber Group is a leading provider of quality timber products and building materials, committed to delivering exceptional service to our customers. With a rich history and strong presence in the industry, we pride ourselves on our knowledgeable team and our dedication to excellence.
Harlow Timber Group is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.