Design Manager – Specialist Contractor – London

I represent one of London’s premier contractors, they design, source, manufacture, install and advise on a range of surface packages across various applications and sectors, including commercial, residential, retail and hospitality.

Services include:

Tiling & Stone, Bespoke Stone Manufacturing, Waterproofing and Underfloor Heating Systems, Render Systems, Façades and Cladding, Brick Slips, Screeding, Leisure Systems Design & Installation, Siliconing & Mastic, Stone Renovation & Restoration, & Hardscapes.

What you'll be responsible for:

• Execute project design in line with deliverables, promoting best practices across all disciplines to create optimal outcomes for clients while managing design risks.
• Direct and coordinate external subcontractors, design consultants, and internal resources.
• Interpret and review drawings and renders, ensuring compliance with ERs, specifications, and standards.
• Serve as the primary technical contact, liaising with Project Managers, the construction team, and clients on design-related issues.
• Hire, manage, and train assistant design managers.
• Ensure alignment with the client's brief and resolve ER discrepancies with the commercial team.
• Manage the Design and Build (D&B) process, including preparing trackers, Information Release Schedules (IRS), and Risk Registers.
• Develop Design Responsibility Matrices (DRM) and Design Risk Assessments (DRA), and assist in technical audits.
• Engage in procurement processes and contribute to the development of the procurement schedule.
• Chair and manage design meetings, including issuing minutes and providing value engineering and buildability feedback.
• Track design development using CDCP, RFI protocols, and technical submissions.
• Ensure BREEAM compliance and cost-effective design solutions within the project timeline.
• Oversee subcontractor and supplier designs, ensuring compliance with ER, Planning Consent, and Building Regulations.
• Manage sample sign-offs, QA processes, and ensure components are installed as specified.
• Lead the production and collation of O&M manuals and track project close-out using a Project Completion Matrix.

What we're looking for:

• Degree in Architectural Technology, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with BREEAM. Highly experienced with AutoCAD
• Knowledge of standards and Building Regulations (incl. Part B).
• Hands-on, self stater, dynamic approach.
• Strong track record of delivering projects on time.
• Brilliant written and spoken communication skills. 

What is in it for you?

• Basic Salary (Negotiable for the right candidate)
• Bonus: 10% paid biannually based on project success & profitability
• Travel paid during work hours
• Pension Scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Continued Career Progression / Professional Development
• Exciting and collaborative Team Environment
• Working on some of London’s most prestigious projects

Apply today if you are looking for that next step in your career!