Senior Design Manager Design & Document Control Central London

Walter Lilly; Greater London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A construction services provider is seeking a Senior Design Manager to lead the design process from concept to construction. This role involves managing teams, overseeing compliance with regulations, and ensuring timely project deliverables. Candidates should have extensive experience with main contractors and strong design coordination skills. This position offers a chance to work on prestigious projects across London and the South East, along with competitive benefits and a collaborative culture.

Benefits

Competitive salary

25 days' annual leave

Private medical insurance

Pension scheme

Travel expenses

Qualifications

• Extensive experience working for a main contractor in a senior design management capacity.
• Strong understanding of construction processes and building regulations.
• Proven ability to lead multiple stakeholders and manage relationships.
• Experience managing complex design packages with multiple deadlines.
• Proactive approach to resolving design and technical challenges.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design development process from concept to construction.
• Coordinate architects, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams.
• Review and approve drawings for accuracy and compliance.
• Monitor design deliverables against project timelines.
• Drive cost-effective design solutions without compromising quality.

Skills

Senior design management

Construction processes

Design coordination principles

Stakeholder management

Resolving design challenges

Proficiency in AutoCAD

Proficiency in Revit

Education

Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

Who Is Walter Lilly?

Walter Lilly is a premier provider of high quality construction services for London and the South East's finest landmark and heritage buildings, alongside state-of-the-art science and higher education facilities. With over 100 years experience, we bring bold, complex projects to life. Our clients come to us for the best, expecting results that stand out on a global stage.

Boasting an impressive track record of unique projects, we work with industry-leading architects, engineers, interior designers, and highly skilled tradespeople on a portfolio ranging from the UK's most recognisable listed attractions to cutting-edge contemporary structures.

This opportunity is perfect for an experienced Senior Design Manager, from a main contractor background, seeking to join our dynamic and collaborative team on a full‑time basis, contributing to some of the most prestigious construction projects in the region.

Our Benefits

• Competitive salary
• 25 days' annual leave
• Private medical insurance
• Automatic enrolment to the company pension scheme ('opt out' available)
• Travel expenses

Our Culture

At Walter Lilly, we work with each other and our clients in the spirit of collaboration. We recognise the expertise of those who have been with us for many years whilst investing in the next generation of rising industry stars, combining invaluable experience with fresh, innovative thinking. We are an Equal Opportunities Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported to reach their full potential. We strive to create a culture where employees can bring themselves to work in line with our core values of integrity, honesty, and fairness.

The Role

As a Senior Design Manager you will:

• Lead and manage the design development process from concept through to construction, ensuring compliance with project specifications and client requirements.
• Coordinate and oversee architects, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams to resolve design issues promptly and effectively.
• Review and approve drawings and specifications for accuracy, buildability, and compliance with regulations and company standards.
• Maintain design documentation in collaboration with the Document Controller, ensuring timely distribution and version control.
• Monitor design deliverables against project timelines, proactively identifying and mitigating delays or risks.
• Drive cost‑effective design solutions without compromising quality or compliance.
• Provide design leadership during construction phases, including attending site meetings and resolving technical queries.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental standards in all design activities.

About You

To be considered for the role of Senior Design Manager you will have:

• Extensive experience working for a main contractor in a senior design management capacity.
• Strong understanding of construction processes, building regulations, and design coordination principles.
• Proven ability to lead and influence multiple stakeholders and manage relationships effectively.
• Experience managing complex design packages and multiple deadlines simultaneously.
• A proactive approach to resolving design and technical challenges.
• Proficiency in design software (AutoCAD, Revit) and document management systems.
• Relevant qualifications or degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management (or equivalent).

How to Apply

If your skill set matches the above, and the prospect of helping deliver some of the country's finest projects appeals to you, please reach out via the button shown.

Your application will be processed by Walter Lilly and interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis as suitable candidates apply. We therefore encourage you to submit ASAP to avoid missing out.