Design Manager

Building Careers UK; Ringway; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected construction company in the UK seeks an experienced Design Manager to oversee design processes across various projects. This position involves managing design coordination, collaborations with internal teams and stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Ideal candidates will possess a strong background in construction and design, with a degree in a relevant field. This role offers long-term stability and professional growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor environment.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and design coordination.
• Excellent communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from pre-construction through to handover.
• Support tender and pre-construction stages with design reviews and risk assessments.
• Ensure compliance with Building Regulations and other statutory requirements.

Skills

Design coordination

Stakeholder management

Construction methods knowledge

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Degree in a relevant subject

Tools

BIM

Digital collaboration tools

Job description

Overview

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 & 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.
• 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.

About the Recruiter

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.

EEO Statement

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 candidates will be contacted.

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