Design Manager

Design Manager

Full-Time 60000 - 80000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead design management for a £110m custodial project, ensuring smooth delivery and compliance.
  • Company: Join a top-tier national contractor with a strong track record in diverse construction projects.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, excellent benefits, and opportunities for career advancement.
  • Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on professional growth and project success.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on significant projects while developing your career in design management.
  • Qualifications: Background in Engineering, Construction, or Architecture with strong communication and problem-solving skills.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.

Ambitious Design Manager required to work with a leading Tier 1 main contractor to help manage the design through the construction phase for a £110m new build custodial project near Devizes, Wiltshire. The construction has large precast elements with some complex interfaces, MEP services, sequencing and logistical challenges. Working with the Senior Design Manager you will be based on site with the delivery team where the initial works have now commenced, through to handover at the end of 2027.

Duties will include:

  • Chairing regular design team meetings
  • Management of consultant design team
  • Regular liaison with clients, stakeholders and end users
  • Engagement with and managing specialist sub-contractor design teams
  • Review 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

This is a progressive role intended to develop an ambitious Design Manager or high performing Assistant Design Manager into the SDM role over the duration of the project.

About the Company: This role is to work with the regional office of a busy Tier 1 national main contractor, with experience and a proven track record in the delivery of new build and refurbishment schemes in defence, secondary education, university faculty buildings, custodial, commercial, data centres, etc. Turnover is circa £130m for the region primarily in the Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire areas. Much of the workload is secured on a mix of national public sector frameworks and competitive tender, plus some negotiated works for key clients.

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. You will have excellent communication and negotiations skills, strong planning and problem-solving ability, initiative and a positive approach. In terms of character, you will be a driven, positive, thorough and detail focussed. You will be an ambitious individual able to work well within a larger team dynamic. You will ideally have a proven track record of successful project delivery with a recognised Main Contractor in a Design Management role, plus some previous experience of public sector projects would be advantageous. 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.

For more information on this contract please contact Martin Olney on 07984 174040 or send your CV to molney@fr-group.co.uk. Candidates must be able to prove their eligibility to work in the UK.

Design Manager employer: Fawkes & Reece

Join a leading Tier 1 main contractor renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation in the construction industry. Located near Devizes, Wiltshire, this role offers a dynamic work environment where you will collaborate closely with a talented team on a significant £110m custodial project. With a strong focus on employee development, you will have ample opportunities for career progression, competitive salary packages, and a supportive culture that values high standards and attention to detail.

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Contact Details:

Fawkes & Reece Recruitment Team

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 design and construction events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. 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 skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best design projects and problem-solving abilities. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, use this as a visual aid to demonstrate your expertise and creativity.

Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing complex designs and working with various stakeholders. Confidence is key!

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented individuals like you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.

We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager

Design Management
Construction Methodology
Technical Knowledge
Commercial Knowledge
Communication Skills
Negotiation Skills
Planning Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience with construction projects, especially those involving complex interfaces and MEP services. We want to see how your background aligns with the specific requirements of this position.

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 ambition and how you can contribute to the successful delivery of the project. We love seeing enthusiasm and a personal touch!

Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills:In your application, don’t forget to highlight your problem-solving abilities. Share examples of how you've proactively resolved issues in past projects. This will demonstrate your capability to manage challenges effectively, which is key for this role.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and submit your details!

How to prepare for a job interview at Fawkes & Reece

Know Your Project Inside Out

Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of the custodial project. Understand the complexities of the precast elements and MEP services involved. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also help you discuss how you can tackle the logistical challenges effectively.

Showcase Your Communication Skills

As a Design Manager, you'll be liaising with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed design teams or resolved issues in past projects. Highlight your ability to chair meetings and keep everyone on track, as this is crucial for the role.

Demonstrate Problem-Solving Prowess

Think of specific instances where you've identified opportunities for value engineering or resolved complex design issues. Be ready to discuss your approach to ensuring compliance with building legislation and contractors' proposals, showcasing your technical knowledge.

Emphasise Your Ambition and Team Spirit

This role is about growth and development. Share your career aspirations and how you see yourself evolving into the Senior Design Manager role. Also, highlight your ability to work within a team dynamic, as collaboration is key in this position.