MEP Design Manager

Criterion Capital / Piccadilly Construction is seeking an experienced MEP Design Manager to oversee and manage the MEP design for multiple office-to-hotel conversion projects. This role requires an expert in building services engineering with strong leadership abilities to deliver fully integrated MEP solutions that meet project objectives, client expectations, and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate will ensure that MEP designs are innovative, cost-effective, energy-efficient, and fully aligned with the unique requirements of hotel conversions.

• Lead and manage the full MEP design process for multiple office-to-hotel conversion projects, ensuring all systems (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) are optimised for functionality, efficiency, and cost.
• Collaborate with architects, structural engineers, and other design professionals to ensure MEP designs are fully integrated into the overall project and support the hotel’s operational needs.
• Take ownership of MEP design decisions, providing technical expertise on HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems.
• Manage external MEP design teams, including consultants and contractors, ensuring clear communication and alignment with project goals.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all MEP-related matters, providing regular updates to project managers, clients, and construction teams.
• Collaborate closely with the Senior Design Manager and Senior Project Manager to ensure the MEP design supports the overall construction programme and project objectives.
• Oversee the development of detailed MEP designs, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems, ensuring all designs meet regulatory requirements and industry best practices.
• Review and approve detailed design documents, including drawings, specifications, and calculations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with relevant standards.
• Ensure all MEP designs comply with local building codes, health and safety regulations, and hospitality-specific requirements.
• Manage the process of obtaining necessary permits and approvals for MEP systems, working with regulatory authorities to ensure timely approvals and compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensure seamless integration of MEP systems with architectural and structural components, resolving any potential design conflicts early in the process.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in MEP design, energy efficiency, and sustainable building services, integrating new technologies where appropriate to enhance project outcomes.
• Manage the MEP budget, ensuring all systems are designed within cost parameters and identifying opportunities for value engineering without sacrificing quality or functionality.
• Review contractor and supplier bids for MEP systems, ensuring competitive pricing and quality standards are met.
• Ensure all MEP design documentation is accurate, organised, and up-to-date, including drawings, specifications, and technical reports.
• Implement and enforce quality control processes throughout the MEP design and construction phases, ensuring that installations meet the highest standards of workmanship.
• Maintain meticulous records of all MEP design changes, approvals, and as-built documentation, ensuring compliance with project and regulatory requirements.

About You:

• A minimum of 5 years’ industry experience in consultancy and/or design manager roles within main contract or developer businesses.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or building services engineering or a related field.
• Proven experience as an MEP Design Manager, ideally within hospitality, commercial-to-residential conversions, or related fields.
• Strong knowledge of MEP systems design, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection systems, with an emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability.
• Experience leading the design and coordination of MEP services for large-scale projects, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality, cost-effective designs.
• Expertise in local building codes, regulations, and standards relevant to MEP design in the hospitality industry.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring timely and high-quality delivery of all MEP design services.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary teams, clients, and external consultants.