Job Description
Design Manager\n\nLocation: Buckinghamshire / Greater London & South East (Hybrid)\nJob Type: Full-Time, Permanent\nSalary: Competitive & Commensurate with Experience\n\nAbout Our Client\n\nOur client is a privately owned, family-run main contractor with a strong presence across Buckinghamshire, Greater London, and the South East. Operating since 2012, they have grown significantly through their commitment to innovation, sustainable construction, and design-led project delivery.\n\nWorking across sectors including residential, commercial, education, and infrastructure, they deliver high-quality results through their core divisions: Contracts, Facades, and Utilities. Their focus includes Design & Build, Zero Carbon Homes, and external works packages, supported by industry-recognised accreditations such as WIRS, NERS, and GIRS partnerships.\n\nThe Role: Design Manager\n\nOur client is seeking a proactive and experienced Design Manager to lead the design process across a diverse project portfolio—from new build homes and commercial schemes to facade upgrades and low-carbon developments.\n\nThe successful candidate will work collaboratively with internal teams, external consultants, and client stakeholders to manage design from pre-construction through to delivery, ensuring compliance, buildability, cost-efficiency, and design excellence.\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\n * Lead the design process across multiple projects, from tender stage through construction\n\n * Coordinate with clients, architects, engineers, and subcontractors to ensure technical and aesthetic quality\n\n * Review and manage design programmes, specifications, and drawings\n\n * Ensure compliance with Building Regulations, sustainability standards (e.g., Part L, SAP, Net Zero) and planning conditions\n\n * Oversee the design risk register and ensure design deliverables are met on time and within budget\n\n * Facilitate design meetings and workshops with internal and external stakeholders\n\n * Provide buildability input during planning and pre-construction phases\n\n * Manage document control processes in collaboration with project and site teams\n\nRequirements\n\n * Proven experience as a Design Manager or similar role within a main contractor or design & build environment\n\n * Strong understanding of UK building regulations, sustainability requirements, and construction methodology\n\n * Excellent coordination and communication skills with technical consultants and project teams\n\n * Ability to identify design risks and propose practical, cost-effective solutions\n\n * Proficient with design and document management software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, Viewpoint, or similar platforms)\n\n * Architectural, engineering, or construction-related qualification (Degree or equivalent) \n\nWhat’s on Offer\n\n * Join a fast-growing and forward-thinking contractor known for innovation, collaboration, and sustainability\n\n * Work on a varied and meaningful project portfolio, including net-zero residential schemes and public sector developments\n\n * Opportunity to play a central role in a company where design is integral to delivery success\n\n * Competitive salary, long-term progression opportunities, and professional development