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- Tasks: Lead design management from concept to completion on exciting commercial projects.
- Company: Top construction firm in Reading with a reputation for excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and diverse project opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-quality projects valued up to £14 million.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in design management, strong understanding of procurement routes.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team with excellent career growth potential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are a leading construction company based in Reading, Berkshire, delivering high-quality commercial projects valued up to £14 million. With a strong reputation for excellence, we pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering projects on time and within budget.
We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to oversee projects throughout their entire lifecycle—from pre-construction design through to post-handover aftercare once buildings are operational. This is a pivotal role where you’ll work closely with internal and external stakeholders to ensure all design elements are seamlessly integrated and executed to the highest standards.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the design management process from concept through to completion and post-handover.
- Collaborate with the bid and estimating teams during the pre-construction phase to assess design feasibility, programme timelines, and buildability of proposed schemes.
- Provide input into commercial quotations and assist pre-construction teams in developing robust tender proposals.
- Manage and coordinate the design process with consultants, subcontractors, and client teams, ensuring all requirements are met within project timescales and budget.
- Monitor and manage design risks and opportunities across all project phases.
- Ensure compliance with building regulations, planning requirements, and contractual obligations.
- Support the handover and aftercare stages, ensuring any design-related issues are resolved effectively.
- Minimum of five years’ experience in a Design Manager role for a principal contractor, ideally on commercial projects.
- Strong understanding of various procurement routes and contract forms—particularly JCT Design & Build (DB) and JCT Standard/SBC or Intermediate Contracts (IC) with Contractor’s Design Portion (CDP).
- Excellent knowledge of the design process and the contractor’s responsibilities under different forms of contract.
- HNC/HND or degree in a construction-related discipline is preferred.
- Membership of professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) or Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is advantageous.
- A dynamic and supportive working environment
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- A chance to work on a variety of exciting and challenging commercial projects
Design Manager employer: Access Talent Group
Contact Detail:
Access Talent Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! As a Design Manager, your work speaks volumes. Make sure to have a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best projects and showcases your design management skills. Bring it along to interviews to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and its projects, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs. Practice common interview questions and think about how you can demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team. It shows initiative and enthusiasm, which are key traits we look for in a Design Manager.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing design processes and working with various stakeholders. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for us. Share specific examples of your past projects and how you’ve successfully managed design from concept to completion.
Showcase Relevant Experience: When filling out your application, emphasise your experience with commercial projects and your understanding of procurement routes. We’re looking for someone who knows their stuff, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Access Talent Group
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with the types of commercial projects the company has worked on. Be ready to discuss similar projects you've managed and how your experience aligns with their needs.
✨Brush Up on Design Management Processes
Since this role involves overseeing the design management process, review key concepts related to design feasibility, programme timelines, and buildability. Prepare examples of how you've successfully navigated these areas in past roles.
✨Understand the Contract Forms
Familiarise yourself with JCT Design & Build and other relevant contract forms. Be prepared to discuss how your knowledge of these contracts can benefit the company and ensure compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
This role requires working closely with various stakeholders. Think of examples where you’ve effectively collaborated with consultants, subcontractors, or clients. Highlight your communication skills and how they’ve helped resolve design-related issues.
