
Enable job alerts via email!
Generate a tailored resume in minutes
Land an interview and earn more. Learn more
A leading Tier 1 main contractor is seeking a Design Manager to oversee the design process for a state-of-the-art logistics project in Essex. The ideal candidate should have experience in managing complex projects, particularly in the industrial and data center sectors. Excellent design management and communication skills are essential. This role offers a competitive salary of £65,000 along with a comprehensive benefits package, including a car allowance and annual bonus scheme.
Location: Essex
Company: Tier 1 Main Contractor (c. £1bn turnover)
Sector: Data Centres & Mission Critical / Industrial & Logistics
Package: £65,000
A leading Tier 1 main contractor with a turnover exceeding £1bn is seeking an experienced Design Manager to join their team on a flagship state‑of‑the‑art steel‑frame logistics centre based in Essex. The business is renowned for delivering high‑specification data centres, mission‑critical industrial schemes, and complex technical projects across the UK and Europe.
This role will play a key part in managing the design process from pre‑construction through delivery, ensuring technical excellence, compliance, and coordination across all disciplines.
Lead and manage the full design process from tender stage through construction and handover.
Coordinate with architects, structural engineers, M&E designers, specialist subcontractors, and internal teams.
Review design deliverables to ensure technical accuracy, buildability, and compliance with project requirements.
Manage the design programme, ensuring timely release of information (RFI responses, design approvals, drawing packages).
Ensure all designs comply with building regulations, industry standards, fire and safety protocols, and relevant client specifications.
Identify technical risks early and work with stakeholders to resolve issues proactively.
Lead value‑engineering workshops to drive efficiency while maintaining quality.
Act as the key interface between the client, consultant teams, and internal project delivery teams.
Facilitate design meetings, workshops, and technical reviews.
Maintain strong relationships with subcontractors to ensure smooth flow of information.
Maintain accurate design records, trackers, and approvals.
Prepare reports on design progress, design risks, and change control for senior management.
Support commercial teams with technical input for procurement packages and change orders.
Proven Design Manager experience within a Tier 1 or major main contractor environment.
Experience on industrial, logistics, data centre, or mission‑critical projects.
Strong understanding of steel‑frame construction methodologies.
Experience managing complex M&E‑heavy schemes.
Ability to lead multidisciplinary design teams on fast‑paced projects.
Excellent communication, coordination, and stakeholder‑management skills.
Degree‑qualified in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management.
Experience with BIM / digital coordination tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks).
Experience delivering large‑scale schemes in excess of £50m+.
Opportunity to work on a cutting‑edge logistics scheme for a leading contractor.
Join a high‑performing team within a stable, well‑funded business delivering major mission‑critical projects.
Long‑term career progression across data centres, industrial, and technical sectors.