Head Of Design

Apple Technical Recruitment (UK) Limited; Braintree; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Apple Technical Recruitment (UK) Limited is sourcing a Head of Design for a prominent main contractor in the Essex region. The role leads a regional team of Design Managers and associated staff across multiple projects, from feasibility through to on-site coordination, with PCSA stage leadership essential.

Salary circa £100k-£110k (DOE) plus competitive package including car allowance, healthcare and pension. Start Oct 2026 onwards, permanent role based on site in Essex.

Qualifications

• Leadership and management experience in Design teams across multiple projects.
• Knowledge of Design Management standards and best practice.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of Design Managers through all RIBA stages, bid management, PCSA/2nd Stage, and essential H&S, operational, and commercial reviews.
• Implement and ensure accountability for Design Management effectiveness and best practice across the entire discipline.
• Oversee Design Management standards and controls and execute a clear Design Management strategy across opportunities and tenders.
• Promote collaboration between design and cost teams to ensure budget and programme drive positive outcomes.
• Act as the key point of coordination between design teams, the client, and the on-site delivery team.

Skills

Team leadership

Design management

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

HNC or Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture

Job description

Vacancy Summary

Job Title: Head of Design

Job Type: Permanent

Job Ref: #1434/66

Location: Essex

Start Date: Oct 2026 onwards

Salary: c£100k-£110k (DOE) basic plus competitive package inc car allowance, healthcare, pension etc.

Company & Project:

A prominent main contractor specialising in the Commercial, Defence, Mixed-Use, Education and Science sectors is looking for an experienced Design professional to lead a regional team of 7 across multiple projects. This role involves managing a team of Design Managers, Document Controllers, and Digital Construction staff.

The successful candidate will oversee the design process across a range of projects, beginning at the feasibility stage and continuing through to on-site coordination. Previous experience leading the Design through PCSA stage is essential for this opportunity.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Lead a team of Design Managers through all RIBA stages, bid management, PCSA/2nd Stage, and essential H&S, operational, and commercial reviews.
• Implement and ensure accountability for Design Management effectiveness and best practice across the entire discipline. Provide functional leadership for design management within the local area.
• Oversee and manage all Design Management standards and controls. Execute a clear Design Management strategy and approach across all project opportunities and tenders.
• Promote collaboration between design and cost teams to ensure budget and programme drive positive outcomes.
• Act as the key point of coordination between design teams, the client, and the on-site delivery team. Maintain a process-driven approach, utilising practical construction knowledge and a keen eye for detail.

Desirable Experience:

• 10 years+ experience as a Design Manager or more senior, for a Main Contractor.
• Design Coordination on projects in excess of £20m+ from early planning stages through to project completion.
• Excellent knowledge of Construction methodology, Design & Build contracts, Planning legislation and Building Safety Act.
• Previous Roles: Senior Design Manager OR Design Manager OR Senior Design Co-ordinator OR Design & Build Manager OR Lead Design Manager OR Principal Design ManagerQualifications & Skills: HNC or Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture.