Design Manager

Building Careers UK; Preston; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction firm in the UK is seeking a skilled Design Manager to oversee project design processes. The successful candidate will manage design coordination for both pre-construction and live projects, ensuring timely and quality compliance. Essential requirements include proven experience, excellent communication skills, and a relevant degree. This role promises long-term stability and professional growth within a respected contractor renowned for delivering diverse projects across various sectors.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor environment.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and design coordination.
• Experience managing multiple stakeholders and design consultants.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from pre-construction through to handover.
• Coordinate design information between consultants, subcontractors, and internal project teams.
• Review drawings and specifications for accuracy, buildability, and compliance.

Skills

Design coordination

Communication

Problem-solving

Organisation

Education

Degree in a relevant subject

Tools

BIM

Job description

An excellent opportunity has arisen for an experienced Design Manager to join a highly regarded main contractor with a strong reputation for quality, collaboration, and sustainable project delivery across the North West.

This business delivers a diverse range of projects including education, healthcare, commercial, and mid-rise residential developments. With a healthy pipeline of secured work and a culture that promotes professional growth, this is an ideal role for a technically strong and commercially aware design professional seeking long-term stability and progression.

The Role

The Design Manager will typically manage one project at pre-construction and one live project. You will take ownership of the design coordination process, managing relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams to ensure that design deliverables are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from pre-construction through to handover.
• Coordinate design information between consultants, subcontractors, and internal project teams.
• Review drawings and specifications for accuracy, buildability, and compliance.
• Support tender and pre-construction stages with design reviews, value engineering, and risk assessments.
• Manage the design programme and ensure deliverables align with procurement and construction schedules.
• Chair and document design coordination meetings.
• Ensure compliance with Building Regulations, CDM, and other statutory requirements.
• Promote digital design management and BIM processes.
• Collaborate closely with project and site teams to ensure smooth design integration into delivery.

Experience required

• Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor environment.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and design coordination.
• Experience managing multiple stakeholders and design consultants.
• Excellent communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills.
• Working knowledge of Building Regulations, planning, and CDM processes.
• Previous experience of residential apartment schemes would be an advantage.
• Degree-qualified in a relevant subject.
• Familiarity with BIM and digital collaboration tools.

Building Careers UK specialises in Construction and Property recruitment and serves as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and an employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job, you accept the Terms and Conditions, Privacy Policy, and Disclaimers which can be found on our website.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. Our recruitment process is designed to ensure equal opportunities for all candidates, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic.

Please Note: Due to high volume of applicants, only shortlisted will be contacted.

INDC