Design Manager

ARC Group; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Tier 1 main contractor in the United Kingdom is searching for an experienced Design Manager to oversee flagship commercial developments. The role involves managing the entire design process, coordinating diverse teams, and ensuring compliance with client specifications and regulations. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in complex projects and proven leadership abilities, with a salary range of £50-£75k based on experience. This is an excellent opportunity to work on high-value projects within a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Coordinator in a Tier 1 main contractor.
• Strong background in complex commercial build projects.
• Ability to manage multiple design packages.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the design process from pre-construction to onsite delivery.
• Manage the full design process across major commercial build projects.
• Ensure design output complies with client specifications and regulatory standards.

Skills

Coordination

Communication

Problem-solving

Building regulations understanding

Job description

Design Manager - Tier 1 Main Contractor

Location: Cambridge
Salary: £50-£75k depending on experience + package
Sector: Commercial Build Projects

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading Tier 1 main contractor for an experienced Design Manager to join their high-performing project team. This role will play a central part in the delivery of flagship commercial developments, offering the chance to work on complex, high-value schemes with a respected national contractor.

The Role:

As Design Manager, you will lead and coordinate the design process from pre-construction through to onsite delivery, ensuring all design information is accurate, fully coordinated, and aligned with project requirements. You'll collaborate closely with architects, consultants, engineers, and internal teams to drive efficient, buildable solutions and maintain design quality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the full design process across major commercial build projects
• Coordinate design teams, consultants, and internal stakeholders to ensure seamless delivery
• Review and challenge design information to identify buildability issues and value-engineering opportunities
• Lead design meetings and manage the design programme in line with project schedules
• Ensure all design output complies with client specifications, regulatory standards, and contractor obligations
• Support bid and pre-construction activities where required
• Work with site teams to resolve technical queries and ensure smooth transition into delivery

About You:

• Proven experience as a Design Manager (or Senior Design Coordinator stepping up) within a Tier 1 main contractor
• Strong background working on complex commercial build projects
• Excellent coordination, communication, and problem-solving capabilities
• Confident managing multiple design packages and liaising with diverse project stakeholders
• Strong understanding of building regulations, construction methodologies, and technical design stages
• Ability to lead from the front, maintain momentum, and drive high-quality outcomes

To be considered for this role please apply with your CV. For a confidential conversation please contact Jenny Saban in our Cambridge office