Workplace Design Standards Manager

www.findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk - Jobboard; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure services provider is seeking a Workplace Design Standards Manager to oversee design standards across various projects. The candidate should have experience in architecture, project management, and a strong understanding of UK design regulations. This role offers a day rate of up to £500 and requires on-site presence in locations including Leeds and Manchester.

Qualifications

• Background in architecture or interior design in commercial settings.
• Experience managing large-scale workplace projects.
• Knowledge of UK Building Regulations and the RIBA framework.

Responsibilities

• Provide design oversight across multiple projects.
• Ensure adherence to internal design standards.
• Champion sustainability and workplace efficiency.

Skills

Architecture knowledge

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Degree in Architecture

RIBA membership

Job description

Job Title: Workplace Design Standards Manager
Contract Duration: Until 31st March 2025 (possible extension)
Location: Based outside of London, with on-site presence required 3 days a week
Preferred Locations: Blackpool, Leeds, Manchester, Sheffield, Cardiff, Glasgow, Newcastle
Day Rate: Up to £500/day (via umbrella company)
Security Clearance Required: BPSS

Role Summary

This is a high-level, strategic architectural role focused on design assurance, not hands-on design work. You'll support a broad programme of workplace and job centre initiatives, making sure they meet internal standards and align with best practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide design oversight across as many as 300 live projects
• Ensure adherence to internal standards, including BS8300
• Help shape and improve workplace design standards and guidance
• Carry out post-occupancy evaluations
• Contribute to project governance and lifecycle activities
• Assess costs, feasibility, and logistics of office designs
• Lead or support reviews of processes to drive improvements

Day-to-Day Tasks

• Develop and maintain technical standards for workplace and property design
• Champion sustainability, inclusivity, and workplace efficiency
• Offer expert advice across all RIBA project stages
• Work closely with stakeholders and advise external delivery teams

Essential Experience

• Background in architecture or interior design, ideally in commercial or retail settings
• Experience managing large-scale workplace or job centre projects
• Solid grasp of accessibility and inclusive design principles
• Confident presenting to large audiences and managing stakeholders
• Skilled in drafting and refining design standards
• Knowledge of UK Building Regulations and the RIBA framework

Desirable Skills & Qualifications

• Degree or postgraduate qualification in Architecture
• RIBA membership (or currently working towards it)
• Project management certification (e.g., PRINCE2, APM)
• Experience with complex property estates like healthcare or education
• Familiarity with UK design regulations and standards

What We're Looking For

• Proactive and commercially minded
• Excellent communicator and stakeholder influencer
• Able to thrive in dynamic, high-pressure environments
• Strategic thinker with a continuous improvement mindset

What Will Set You Apart

• Experience in commercial or retail workplace design (not residential)
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement
• Confident presentation skills and professional presence
• Solid understanding of RIBA stages
• Adaptive, proactive working style

As an equal opportunities employer McGinley Support Services (Infrastructure) Ltd is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective applicants. We actively seek applications from all sectors of the community and particularly encourage applications from women, those with a disability (that is permissible to a safety-critical environment) and ethnically diverse or ethnic minority candidates, as these groups are underrepresented throughout the construction industry.