Head Of Design

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

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Healthcare

Pension

Job summary

Apple Technical Recruitment (UK) seeks a Head of Design to lead a regional team on multiple projects across the Essex region. You will oversee Design Managers, Document Controllers and Digital Construction staff from feasibility through to on-site coordination.

The role requires extensive experience in Design through PCSA stages, managing budgets, programmes, and collaborating with clients and delivery teams. Attractive package offered in a permanent, full-time capacity.

Qualifications

• 10+ years experience as a Design Manager or senior, for a Main Contractor.
• Design Co-ordination on £20m+ projects from planning to completion.
• Knowledge of Construction methods, Design & Build contracts, Planning legislation and Building Safety Act.
• Roles: Senior Design Manager, Design Manager, Senior Design Co-ordinator, Design & Build Manager, Lead Design Manager, Principal Design Manager.

Responsibilities

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

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 Manager

Qualifications & Skills

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