Regional Design Manager

Fawkes & Reece; Bristol; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading construction contractor in the Southern UK is seeking a Regional Design Manager to oversee Design Management for projects. This role involves mentoring a team, engaging with clients, and ensuring project delivery meets high standards. The ideal candidate will have a background in Engineering or Construction with a proven track record in Design Management. This position offers a competitive salary and the chance to be part of a dynamic leadership team.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in Design Management with a Tier 1 or 2 Main Contractor.
• Experience leading small design teams and managing projects.
• High attention to detail with a strong drive to meet deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Design Management function across the Southern Region.
• Manage and develop a team of Design Managers and Coordinators.
• Collaborate in regional decision making for continuous improvement.

Skills

Technical and commercial knowledge

Communication and negotiation skills

Planning and problem-solving abilities

Leadership and interpersonal skills

Self-motivated and proactive approach

Education

Background in Engineering/Construction or Architecture

Job description

Overview

About this Role: Exciting opportunity for a Regional Design Manager to join this busy Tier 2 main contractor to oversee and support the Design Management function across the Southern Region, comprising 2 offices and an existing team of Design Managers, Design Coordinators and Information Managers. Based predominantly in Bristol, patch focus is the Bristol and Somerset area plus across to projects in Wiltshire, Dorset and Hampshire also.

This role will report to the Technical Director and work closely with the Area Manager for the Bristol Office, with responsibility for the Design Management function from input to tenders, through second stage preconstruction and throughout construction phase for projects on site.

You will support, manage, mentor and develop your team as they typically look after design management on 1-3 projects each.

As part of the Senior Leadership Team you will have input to decision making for the region, plus responsibility for your team and the design management function. You will ensure a culture of continuous improvement through communication, sharing of knowledge, experience, challenges and their resolution.

You will be able to support and step in where necessary, plus empower and encourage, build mutual trust and respect with your team. You will support and step in when appropriate with key clients, consultants, technical challenges, etc. You will have responsibility for recruitment on staff to your team in conjunction with the Director and Area Manager.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and support the Design Management function across the Southern Region, including input to tenders, second stage preconstruction and construction phase for on-site projects.
• Manage, mentor and develop a team of Design Managers, Design Coordinators and Information Managers (typically 1-3 projects per team member).
• Collaborate with the Senior Leadership Team to contribute to regional decision making and drive continuous improvement in design management processes.
• Provide leadership in client and consultant engagements, address technical challenges, and support project delivery.
• Lead recruitment for the design team in partnership with the Director and Area Manager.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Background in Engineering/Construction delivery or Architecture, with excellent technical and commercial knowledge, understanding of construction methodology, materials and systems, procurement lead times, and building regulations.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills; strong planning and problem-solving abilities; initiative and a positive, proactive approach.
• Self-motivated, positive, ambitious, and able to work well within a large team dynamic.
• Demonstrable interpersonal and leadership skills; ability to manage and develop individuals within the team, including training and mentoring.
• Proven track record of successful project delivery with a recognised Tier 1 or 2 Main Contractor in a Design Management role.
• Experience as a Design Lead or Senior Design Manager looking to step up to a Senior Leadership Team Design Lead role, with experience running a small team.
• High standards, attention to detail, and drive to deliver on programme, specification, and budget.

About the Company

The company is a busy southern-focused main contractor with experience and a proven track record in delivering schemes ranging £5m to £20m across the patch in sectors including schools and colleges, care and retirement homes, healthcare, residential, leisure, offices, etc. Turnover is circa £25m-£30m for the office, with a regional base close to the M4 and M5.

How to Apply

For more information on this contract please contact Martin Olney on 07984 174040 or send your CV to [e-mail]

Candidates must be able to prove their eligibility to work in the UK