Design Manager – Tier 1 Main Contractor

Velocity Recruitment; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Velocity Recruitment Ltd in Exeter is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead design processes on high-value schemes across the South West. The role offers a flexible hybrid working model with 1–2 days from home per week.

The successful candidate will manage design from pre-construction through site delivery, coordinating with clients, architects, subcontractors and internal teams while pursuing value engineering opportunities. Availability ASAP with up to 3 months for the right person.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in design management within construction.
• Experience in main contractor, sub-contractor or consultancy is preferred.
• Availability ASAP, with up to 3 months for the right person.

Responsibilities

• Design leadership from pre-construction to site delivery.
• Coordinate with clients, architects, sub-contractors, and internal teams.
• Identify design efficiencies and value engineering opportunities.

Skills

Design management

Contractor experience

Availability ASAP

Job description

Job Title: Design Manager

Location: Exeter (Covering South West England)

Salary: £55,000 – £70,000 + Package + Progression

Job Type: Permanent with Flexible / Hybrid Working

About the Company

We are recruiting on behalf of a leading Tier 1 main contractor with a highly secure pipeline of work across major public and private sector frameworks.

Known for their stability and ‘future-proof’ position against market volatility, they deliver landmark projects across the Healthcare, Education, Defence, and Residential sectors.

The Role

This is a fantastic opportunity for an established Design Manager, or an ambitious Assistant Design Manager ready to take the immediate step up.

You will lead the design processes on diverse, high-value schemes across the South West.

You will enjoy excellent autonomy alongside a flexible working model offering 1 to 2 days working from home per week.

Key Responsibilities

• Design Leadership: Manage the design process from pre-construction through to site delivery.
• Collaboration: Coordinate with clients, architects, sub-contractors, and internal project teams.
• Value Engineering: Identify and implement commercial and technical design efficiencies.

What We Are Looking For

• Experience: Proven track record in Design Management within a main contractor, sub-contractor, or consultancy environment.
• Sector Knowledge: Specific knowledge of the Education sector would be advantageous but certainly not essential.
• Availability: The position is available ASAP, but they will up to 3-monts for the right person.

Why Apply?

• Secure, long-term pipeline of work with a top-tier construction leader.
• Clear path to step up and hold full accountability for major projects.
• Flexible, modern working arrangements.