At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and coordinate design processes for major commercial build projects.
- Company: Join a leading Tier 1 main contractor with a high-performing project team.
- Benefits: Competitive salary of £50-£75k plus an attractive package.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on flagship developments and complex schemes.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Coordinator in commercial builds.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Cambridge
Salary: £50-£75k depending on experience + package
Sector: Commercial Build Projects
We are recruiting on behalf of a leading Tier 1 main contractor for an experienced Design Manager to join their high-performing project team. This role will play a central part in the delivery of flagship commercial developments, offering the chance to work on complex, high-value schemes with a respected national contractor.
The Role:
- As Design Manager, you will lead and coordinate the design process from pre-construction through to onsite delivery, ensuring all design information is accurate, fully coordinated, and aligned with project requirements.
- You’ll collaborate closely with architects, consultants, engineers, and internal teams to drive efficient, buildable solutions and maintain design quality.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage the full design process across major commercial build projects
- Coordinate design teams, consultants, and internal stakeholders to ensure seamless delivery
- Review and challenge design information to identify buildability issues and value-engineering opportunities
- Lead design meetings and manage the design programme in line with project schedules
- Ensure all design output complies with client specifications, regulatory standards, and contractor obligations
- Support bid and pre-construction activities where required
- Work with site teams to resolve technical queries and ensure smooth transition into delivery
About You:
- Proven experience as a Design Manager (or Senior Design Coordinator stepping up) within a Tier 1 main contractor
- Strong background working on complex commercial build projects
- Excellent coordination, communication, and problem-solving capabilities
- Confident managing multiple design packages and liaising with diverse project stakeholders
- Strong understanding of building regulations, construction methodologies, and technical design stages
- Ability to lead from the front, maintain momentum, and drive high-quality outcomes
To be considered for this role please apply with your CV. For a confidential conversation please contact Jenny Saban in our Cambridge office.
Design Manager employer: ARC Group
ARC is an exceptional employer for Electricians, offering competitive pay and a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being. With a strong focus on professional growth, employees benefit from ongoing assignments, free online training, and access to health support for themselves and their families. Working in Chelsea on high-end domestic projects, you'll be part of a leading recruitment agency known for its commitment to client satisfaction and employee development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend events, and join relevant groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a Design Manager role or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best design projects and achievements. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your work do the talking.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and their projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing complex commercial builds.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
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 with commercial build projects and any relevant design management skills. We want to see how you fit into our team!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of how you've led design processes or resolved complex issues in past projects. This helps us see your impact.
Keep It Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and concise. Avoid jargon and make sure your points are easy to understand. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets to the point!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at ARC Group
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the types of commercial build projects the company has worked on. Familiarise yourself with their flagship developments and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their project requirements.
✨Showcase Your Coordination Skills
As a Design Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to coordinate with various stakeholders. Prepare examples from your past roles where you successfully managed design teams or resolved conflicts between architects and engineers. This will show that you can handle the complexities of the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about building regulations, construction methodologies, and technical design stages. Brush up on these topics and be ready to discuss how you've applied this knowledge in previous projects. This will highlight your expertise and confidence in the field.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the company's approach to value-engineering or how they ensure design quality across projects. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
