Lead Design Manager

Apple Technical Recruitment (UK); Colchester; On-site; GBP 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Car allowance

Health

Performance bonus

Pension

Job summary

Apple Technical Recruitment (UK) is assisting a prominent main contractor to recruit a Lead Design Manager in Essex. The role oversees a regional team across 4 projects, driving design delivery from feasibility through on-site coordination and PCSA-led staging.

The candidate should have 10+ years at senior levels, proven design management leadership, and strong experience with large projects (£20m+). A clear Design Management strategy is required.

Qualifications

• 10 years+ experience as a Design Manager or senior role in a main contractor.
• Design coordination on projects over £20m from early planning to completion.
• Strong knowledge of Construction methodology, Design & Build contracts, planning legislation and Building Safety Act.

Responsibilities

• Lead a team of Design Managers through all RIBA stages and bid processes.
• Oversee PCSA/2nd Stage and essential health & safety, operational and commercial reviews.
• Institute design management best practices and accountability across the discipline.
• Coordinate between design teams, client, and on-site delivery with a process-driven approach.

Skills

Design Management

Leadership

PCSA

RIBA Stages

Education

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

Job description

Vacancy Summary

Job Title: Lead Design Manager

Job Type: Permanent

Job Ref: #1434

Location: Essex

Start Date: Sept/Oct 2026 onwards

Salary: c£100k+ (DOE) basic plus competitive package inc car allowance, health, performance bonus, pension etc.

Company & Project:
A prominent main contractor specialising in the Commercial, Mixed-Use, Education and Science sectors is looking for an experienced Design professional to lead a regional team of 7 across 4 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.

Application Process: If you would like more information on this Lead Design Manager position or any other vacancy please email your current CV through to Jess Quinn where it will be reviewed and you will be contacted within 48 hours if your CV is of interest.

Services advertised by Apple Technical Recruitment are that of an Employment Agency/Business.