Design Manager

Job Title: Design Manager

Location: Kent
Employer: Tier 2 Principal Contractor
Sector: Industrial & Commercial Construction
Salary: £70,000 - £75,000 per annum (depending on experience) + benefits

Role Overview:

We are recruiting an experienced Design Manager to join a well-established Tier 2 principal contractor working on industrial and commercial projects across London and Kent. The successful candidate will manage the design process from pre-construction through to project delivery, ensuring that all designs align with client expectations, budgets, and timelines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design Coordination: Manage and coordinate design teams (including architects, engineers, and consultants), ensuring that design outputs meet the project brief and construction programme.
• Stakeholder Liaison: Serve as the main point of contact between clients, subcontractors, and the internal team to maintain clear communication and resolve design-related issues swiftly.
• Programme Management: Develop and oversee the design schedule, ensuring timely delivery of all design packages in line with key construction milestones.
• Technical Compliance: Ensure that designs comply with relevant building regulations, CDM (Construction Design and Management) Regulations, and planning requirements.
• Risk Management: Identify design risks and implement mitigation strategies early in the process.
• Value Engineering: Assist with design optimisation, driving cost-effective solutions while maintaining quality standards.
• Document Control: Manage design documentation and ensure the smooth flow of accurate information between all stakeholders.
• Support Construction Teams: Collaborate closely with pre-construction and site teams to ensure seamless transition from design to build phases.

Projects Include:

• Industrial: Warehousing, logistics hubs, and manufacturing plants.
• Commercial: Offices, retail units, and mixed-use developments.

Person Specification:

• Education: Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years' experience in a Design Manager or Design Coordinator role, ideally within industrial and commercial construction.
• Software Skills: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM tools.
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of UK building regulations and CDM compliance.
• Skills: Exceptional leadership, organisational, and communication skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and engage multiple stakeholders.
• Desirable: Experience working with Tier 2 contractors and involvement in value engineering initiatives.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary (£70k - £75k)
• Car allowance or travel expenses
• Pension scheme
• Private healthcare
• Clear opportunities for career progression