Senior Design Manager

Apple Technical Recruitment (Uk); Waterford; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Unknown is seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager for a high-tech, multi-disciplinary project in Watford. You will manage design coordination on-site, coordinate with clients and delivery teams, and drive design processes to align with project timelines and commercial targets.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years with a Main Contractor and proven experience in Higher Education or related sectors, with a degree in Civil/Structural Engineering or Construction Management.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years' experience with a Main Contractor.
• Experience on Higher Education, Life Science/Pharma, or Wet Leisure/Laboratory sectors preferred.
• Prior roles: Technical Manager, Senior Design Manager, Design Manager, Principal Design Manager, Design & Build Manager.

Responsibilities

• Oversee design management and on-site coordination.
• Liaise between design team, client, and on-site delivery team.
• Ensure technical accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Drive efficient design process aligned with timelines and commercial targets.

Skills

Design coordination

Client liaison

Regulatory compliance

Education

Civil/Structural Engineering degree

Architecture

Construction Management

Job description

Vacancy Summary

Job Title: Senior Design Manager

Job Type: Permanent

Job Ref: #1441

Location: Watford, Hertfordshire (Mix of Office & Site based, with flexible working options available)

Salary: c£80,000-£90,000 basic salary (DOE), plus a comprehensive package including car allowance, healthcare, performance bonus, pension.

Company & Project

A successful Tier 1 Main Contractor with a stable and secured pipeline of work are looking for a Senior Design Manager to join the business working on a new c£60m new build Higher Education project starting on site imminently.

The project features unique design aspects and is highly technical, making it an excellent project for a talented design manager.

The Senior Design Manager will be involved in managing the design process including the on-site design coordination. This is a unique opportunity to lead a complex project in the local area as it progresses onto site.

Duties & Responsibilities

The Senior Design Manager will oversee technical compliance and design management, focusing primarily on on-site design coordination and managing the performance of external consultants through the delivery phase.

Key responsibilities include:

• Acting as the primary liaison between the design team, client, and on-site delivery team.
• Ensuring technical accuracy and compliance with all relevant standards and regulations.
• Driving an efficient design process aligned with project timelines and commercial targets.
• Supporting innovation in design and construction methodologies.
• A process-driven approach, strong technical understanding of construction, and a keen attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

Desirable Experience

• A minimum of 10 years' experience working for a Main Contractor.
• Previous experience on at least one of the following sectors: Higher Education, Life Science/Pharmaceuticals or Wet Leisure/Swimming Pools or other Laboratory.
• Previous Roles: Technical Manager | Senior Design Manager | Design Manager | Principal Design Manager | Design & Build Manager

Qualifications & Skills

HNC or Degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management or a related construction discipline.