Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design projects and coordinate with teams on exciting new builds.
- Company: Join a dynamic main contractor known for innovative construction solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, career growth opportunities, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects that shape communities and enhance your design skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management and a passion for construction are essential.
- Other info: This role offers the chance to work on a multi-phase scheme over several years.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
About this Role:
Experienced / ambitious Design Manager required to work with a leading Tier 1 main contractor to help manage the preconstruction design process and then construction phase for a large new build defence project near Salisbury, Wiltshire.
Working with the Senior Design Manager for the project, you will be based in the Southampton office throughout the PCSA phase, then move on to site with the delivery team when works commence for a 24 month construction phase. Work is due to commence on site at the end of the year.
Reporting to the Preconstruction Manager and working closely with the Senior Design Manager and with the wider preconstruction team, you will help to manage the detailed design development for the scheme through second stage, engaging with client, stakeholders, supply chain and end users.
Thereafter you will take full responsibility for design management through the construction phase, based on site and working closely with the project delivery team throughout the construction.
Duties will include:
- Management of design development for your project,
- 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;
- 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 preconstruction and 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, establishing the positive client relationship and knowledge of this specific defence sector.
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, primary and secondary education, healthcare, higher education faculty buildings, student accommodation, blue light, etc.
Turnover is circa £100m for the region primarily in the Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset areas.
This project is one of several for a repeat client in a secure location, so in addition to this initial 3 years of work on the scheme as described, there is a further pipeline of work pursue in the same location.
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 focused. 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 previous experience of defence projects and working in a live MOD environment 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.
Due to the project being situated within a secure defence location, it is a requirement for this position that the successful candidate holds a full UK passport.
For more information on this contract please contact Martin Olney on 07984 174040 or send your CV to
Candidates must be able to prove their eligibility to work in the UK
JBRP1_UKTJ
Design Manager employer: Fawkes & Reece
Contact Detail:
Fawkes & Reece Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the MOJ project. Understanding the nuances of working on government contracts can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the construction and design industry, especially those who have experience with similar projects. Attend local events or join online forums to make valuable connections.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during interviews. As a design manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead a team effectively and manage multiple phases of a project.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the main contractor's previous projects and their approach to design management. Being able to discuss their work and how you can contribute will impress the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific requirements for the design manager position. Highlight key responsibilities and skills that the contractor is looking for, such as experience with commercial offices or industrial buildings.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to reflect your relevant experience in design management. Emphasise projects similar to the MOJ project mentioned, showcasing your ability to manage multiple phases and work on large-scale developments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that connects your background and skills to the job. Mention your familiarity with the types of projects the contractor undertakes and express your enthusiasm for contributing to their upcoming schemes.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your application materials. Check for spelling and grammatical errors, and ensure that your documents are well-formatted and professional.
How to prepare for a job interview at Fawkes & Reece
✨Showcase Your Design Portfolio
Bring along a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best design projects. Be prepared to discuss the challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and creativity.
✨Understand the Project Scope
Familiarise yourself with the specifics of the MOJ project and the types of buildings involved. Showing that you have done your homework will impress the interviewers and indicate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
As a design manager, you'll need to work closely with various teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with architects, engineers, and contractors in the past to achieve project goals.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Have a few insightful questions ready to ask about the company's design philosophy or future projects. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
