At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design management for a £90m project, ensuring smooth delivery and compliance.
- Company: Top-tier main contractor with a strong track record in complex builds.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel expenses covered, and potential lodging support.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on significant projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management or coordination, strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Experienced Design Manager required by the Southern region of this leading Tier 1 main contractor to manage the design process for an ongoing £90m MoJ project in Newport, Isle of Wight. Work has been underway on site for the past 18 months, with an ongoing programme of works which will continue until the end of 2027. The scope of work includes extensive Fire Safety Improvement works, a new build rapid deployment block, re-roofing works and refurbishment of other areas.
This is an NEC3 form of contract. The nature of working within live buildings involves regular challenges and reaction, so there will be regular change, Early Warning Notices to the client with proposed resolution, design development in order to agree Compensation Events. In addition, the client is also instructing some additional works.
Reporting to and working closely with the Senior Project Manager for the scheme, you will be responsible for:
- Management of the design development.
- Management of consultant design team.
- Regular liaison with client, architect, consultants and the construction team.
- Agreement of information required schedule; ensuring key dates achieved.
- Review of construction design information for buildability, compliance with contractors proposals, employers requirements, budget, current building legislation, etc.
- Identifying opportunities for value engineering where appropriate.
- Proactive issue resolution.
- Overall managing the smooth and timely delivery of detailed design information for procurement and construction throughout the build process once underway.
About the Company/Client/Project: The company is a leading national main contractor, with experience and a proven track record in the delivery of complex new build schemes in secondary education, higher education, MoJ, commercial offices, senior living, leisure centres and data centres ranging from £35m to £100m in the Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire areas. Turnover is circa £140m+ for the office, with a regional base in Berkshire.
Requirements including certificates and qualifications: Either from an Engineering/Construction delivery or Architectural background, you will possess excellent technical and commercial knowledge, a keen understanding of construction methodology, materials and systems, procurement lead in times, etc. Previous experience of working on an MoJ scheme and an understanding of Fire Safety Improvement works would be advantageous but not essential. You will have excellent communication and negotiation skills, strong planning and problem-solving ability, initiative and a positive approach. In terms of character, you will be a highly driven, positive and ambitious individual able to work well within a large team dynamic. You will ideally have a proven track record of successful project delivery with a recognised Main Contractor in a Design Coordination / Design Management role. High standards, attention to detail and the drive to deliver on programme, specification and budget will be very well rewarded with excellent salary, benefits, promotional and development prospects.
This is a fairly easy location to commute to if you live in the Southampton, Portsmouth or Lymington areas and the contractor will cover all of the travel expenses. They are willing to provide lodging away during the week for the right candidate who lives further away. If you opt to lodge on the island during the week, the contractor will also pay a 10% salary uplift for the duration of this project. This is a full-time salaried role where you will ideally work with the business for the long-term, but a fixed-term contract for the duration will be an option for the right candidate if preferable and based outside the regional patch.
Design Manager in Newport employer: Fawkes and Reece
As a leading Tier 1 main contractor, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and supportive work environment that encourages professional growth and collaboration. Our Newport project offers unique opportunities for design managers to engage in complex builds while enjoying competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and the potential for a 10% salary uplift for those lodging on the island. With a strong focus on employee development and a commitment to delivering high-quality projects, we are an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in construction.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager in Newport
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the construction and design industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for introductions. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a Design Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your previous projects, especially those related to MoJ schemes or fire safety improvements. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on NEC3 contracts and the specific challenges of working in live buildings. Be ready to discuss how you've tackled similar issues in the past. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to get noticed by the right people in the industry.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager in Newport
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience with design management, especially in complex projects like MoJ schemes. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your understanding of fire safety improvements and your proactive approach to problem-solving. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since you'll be liaising with various teams, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. In your application, give examples of how you've successfully managed stakeholder relationships in past projects. We value collaboration!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply 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 – just a few clicks and you’re done!
How to prepare for a job interview at Fawkes and Reece
✨Know Your Project Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of the £90m MoJ project. Understand the design process, the challenges faced, and how you can contribute to the ongoing works. This will show your genuine interest and preparedness.
✨Showcase Your Technical Knowledge
Be ready to discuss your background in engineering, construction delivery, or architecture. Highlight your understanding of construction methodologies, fire safety improvements, and NEC3 contracts. This will demonstrate your expertise and suitability for the role.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect questions about how you would handle regular changes and proactive issue resolution. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed design development or resolved conflicts within a team.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since the role involves liaising with clients, architects, and consultants, be prepared to discuss how you’ve effectively communicated in previous roles. Share specific instances where your negotiation skills led to successful outcomes, showcasing your ability to work within a large team dynamic.
