Design Manager

Sphere Solutions; Exeter; On-site; GBP 59,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading regional contractor in Exeter is seeking an experienced Design Manager to take charge of exciting construction projects. In this role, you will oversee the design process, ensuring compliance with regulations and delivering innovative solutions. The ideal candidate has proven experience in a main contractor environment, with strong problem-solving skills and relevant qualifications. You will enjoy a competitive salary of up to £70,000 plus benefits, with a focus on projects in the South West.

Benefits

Career Progression

Exciting Projects

Competitive Salary & Benefits

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor or developer environment.
• Strong understanding of construction methods and building regulations.
• Experience in commercial, education, healthcare projects.

Responsibilities

• Manage the design process from pre-construction to completion.
• Work with architects and consultants to ensure compliance.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality.

Skills

Design management

Technical design coordination

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Relevant qualifications in Construction, Architecture, or Engineering

Job description

Design Manager - Regional Contractor (Exeter)

Location: Exeter, UK | Job Type: Permanent

Take the Design Lead on Exciting Construction Projects!
Are you an experienced Design Manager looking to work with a leading regional contractor? Do you have a passion for delivering high-quality construction projects from concept to completion? If so, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-respected contractor with a strong pipeline of projects across the South West.

The Role

As a Design Manager, you will play a crucial role in ensuring innovative and efficient design solutions across a variety of construction projects. You will collaborate with architects, consultants, and project teams to ensure seamless project delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the Design Process – Oversee all design stages from pre-construction to project completion.
• Coordination & Compliance – Work closely with architects, consultants, and internal teams to ensure designs are practical, cost-effective, and compliant with regulations.
• Value Engineering – Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and buildability.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Liaise with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure smooth communication.
• Technical Oversight – Ensure all designs align with current building regulations, sustainability targets, and industry best practices.
• Risk Management – Identify and resolve potential design challenges before they impact project timelines.

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor or developer environment.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, building regulations, and technical design coordination.
• Experience working on commercial, education, healthcare, or mixed-use projects.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills to manage design challenges.
• Ability to lead design team meetings and coordinate effectively with stakeholders.
• Relevant qualifications in Construction, Architecture, or Engineering.

Why Join?

• Career Progression – Work with a contractor that values growth and development.
• Exciting Projects – Be part of a team delivering high-quality, innovative construction projects.
• Competitive Salary & Benefits – Up to £70,000 + Car Allowance and package.
• South West Focus – Work on projects in and around Exeter, reducing excessive travel.

How to Apply

If you're a Design Manager looking for an exciting opportunity with a leading regional contractor, we'd love to hear from you! Send your CV as instructed or call for a confidential discussion. This role is handled by Sphere Solutions, a specialist in construction recruitment.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

As a recruitment agency, we are committed to promoting inclusive opportunities on behalf of our clients. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from under-represented communities. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or require adjustments during the recruitment process, we'll work with you and the client to ensure a fair and supportive experience. We aim to represent employers who foster respectful, inclusive and collaborative workplaces – regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity or background.