Design Manager

EA Associates; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable main contractor in Ipswich is seeking a Design Manager to oversee the design process for diverse projects up to £30m. The role involves managing design delivery, ensuring compliance with standards, and collaborating with various teams. Ideal candidates will have strong leadership and communication skills, along with experience in a main contracting environment. Opportunities for professional growth and a supportive work culture await successful applicants.

Benefits

Supportive working culture

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing design delivery within a main contracting environment.
• Solid understanding of construction methodology and project management principles.
• Comfortable working across multiple sectors and project types.

Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate the design process from pre-construction through to completion.
• Review design documentation to ensure compliance with client requirements.
• Collaborate with architects and engineers to resolve technical issues.

Skills

Leadership skills

Communication skills

Design coordination

Job description

The Client: A long-established and highly regarded main contractor, this well-respected business has built a reputation for excellence across a wide range of sectors, including commercial, education, healthcare, residential, and public sector projects. With a strong regional presence and a proven track record delivering schemes up to £30m in value, the company continues to uphold its core values of quality, integrity and collaboration. As part of its ongoing growth, the company is now seeking a Design Manager to join their team based in the Ipswich office.

The Role:

As Design Manager, you'll take a leading role in managing the design process from tender stage through to project delivery, ensuring that buildability, cost efficiency, and quality are achieved across a varied portfolio of projects. Working closely with pre‑construction, commercial, and delivery teams, you'll coordinate the flow of information between consultants, clients, and site teams, providing technical leadership and design direction. This position offers excellent long‑term prospects within a respected contractor known for investing in its people and promoting from within.

Responsibilities:

• Manage and coordinate the design process from pre‑construction through to completion.
• Review design documentation to ensure compliance with client requirements, building regulations, and company standards.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and subcontractors to resolve technical issues and drive design development.
• Lead design meetings, workshops, and reviews to ensure timely and coordinated information flow.
• Identify and manage design risks, ensuring buildability and cost‑effectiveness are maintained throughout.
• Support tender submissions with design input, value engineering, and technical assessments.
• Work closely with site management teams to provide design solutions during construction.
• Promote best practice, innovation, and continuous improvement across all design activities.

Qualifications & Experience:

• Proven experience managing design delivery within a main contracting environment.
• Solid understanding of construction methodology, design coordination, and project management principles.
• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to build positive working relationships.
• Comfortable working across multiple sectors and project types, from small refurbishments to large new builds.
• Competent in reviewing drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Based within a commutable distance of Ipswich, with flexibility to visit sites across the region.

Salary & Package:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Supportive and collaborative working culture.
• Opportunities for professional growth and career progression within a respected contractor.
• Exposure to a wide range of challenging and rewarding projects across East Anglia and beyond.

What to do next:

If you're an experienced Design Manager seeking a long‑term role within a reputable and forward‑thinking main contractor, we'd love to hear from you. Apply via the link below and we'll be in touch to discuss the position in more detail.

All applications are treated in the strictest confidence.