Design Manager

ARC (Norwich) Ltd; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading main contractor is seeking an experienced Design Manager to manage the design process for flagship commercial developments. The role involves coordinating design teams, ensuring compliance with regulations, and driving efficient solutions for high-value projects. Ideal candidates will have significant experience in a Tier 1 environment and possess outstanding communication and leadership skills. Applications should be sent with a CV, and for inquiries, you can contact a representative in the office.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Coordinator within a Tier 1 main contractor.
• Strong background working on complex commercial build projects.
• Excellent coordination and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full design process across major commercial build projects.
• Coordinate design teams and internal stakeholders.
• Review design information for buildability issues.

Skills

Coordination

Communication

Problem-solving

Understanding building regulations

Job description

Design Manager – Tier 1 Main Contractor
Location: Cambridge
Salary: £50-£75k depending on experience + package
Sector: Commercial Build Projects

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading Tier 1 main contractor for an experienced Design Manager to join their high-performing project team. This role will play a central part in the delivery of flagship commercial developments, offering the chance to work on complex, high-value schemes with a respected national contractor.

The Role

As Design Manager, you will lead and coordinate the design process from pre-construction through to onsite delivery, ensuring all design information is accurate, fully coordinated, and aligned with project requirements. You’ll collaborate closely with architects, consultants, engineers, and internal teams to drive efficient, buildable solutions and maintain design quality.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full design process across major commercial build projects

• Coordinate design teams, consultants, and internal stakeholders to ensure seamless delivery

• Review and challenge design information to identify buildability issues and value-engineering opportunities

• Lead design meetings and manage the design programme in line with project schedules

• Ensure all design output complies with client specifications, regulatory standards, and contractor obligations

• Support bid and pre-construction activities where required

• Work with site teams to resolve technical queries and ensure smooth transition into delivery

About You

• Proven experience as a Design Manager (or Senior Design Coordinator stepping up) within a Tier 1 main contractor

• Strong background working on complex commercial build projects

• Excellent coordination, communication, and problem-solving capabilities

• Confident managing multiple design packages and liaising with diverse project stakeholders

• Strong understanding of building regulations, construction methodologies, and technical design stages

• Ability to lead from the front, maintain momentum, and drive high-quality outcomes

To be considered for this role please apply with your CV. For a confidential conversation please contact Jenny Saban in our Cambridge office.