Design Manager

We are currently seeking a proactive and forward-thinking Design Manager to join our Construction Unit based in Bromley, Kent. Reporting to the Head of Technical, the Design Manager will play a pivotal role in planning, reviewing, co-ordinating and managing all design activities to ensure successful project delivery from tender through to handover. You’ll be responsible for technical compliance across multiple projects—typically residential developments of 50–100 units—and for driving efficiency, buildability and value through the design process. This role also requires leadership in closing out legacy and recovery schemes, making it ideal for an experienced professional who takes ownership and delivers results in technically challenging environments. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Design Manager with a contractor background—particularly in RC frame and housing projects—to join a growing, collaborative, and quality-driven team. Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Management * Lead and mentor the Assistant Design Co-ordinator, ensuring performance in line with internal processes and KPIs. * Take ownership of the design process across assigned projects, providing clear direction and proactive leadership. Design Coordination & Compliance * Plan, review, and manage all design outputs from consultants, subcontractors and internal teams to meet project objectives. * Ensure full technical compliance with Building Regulations, NHBC standards, planning conditions and statutory approvals. * Manage design approvals, respond to site queries, and oversee RFIs and TQs. Pre-Construction & Delivery * Lead the preparation of project specifications, design programmes, and Contractor’s Proposals at the outset of each project. * Oversee the production and coordination of design information in line with the master construction programme. * Work closely with Commercial and Operations teams to deliver cost-effective, buildable solutions. Legacy Scheme Management * Take a leading role in closing out legacy and recovery schemes, resolving outstanding site queries, O&M documentation, fire safety and compliance issues. * Ensure timely handover by assembling all statutory approvals and project documentation (BCO, NHBC, Planning, etc.). Consultant & Client Liaison * Appoint and manage multi-disciplinary design consultants in accordance with a robust responsibility matrix. * Validate consultant deliverables and fee claims, ensuring alignment with scope. * Prepare and present monthly client design reports, managing the sign-off process for specifications and samples. Value, Risk & Quality * Drive value engineering throughout the design process, achieving efficient, compliant and cost-effective design solutions. * Identify and manage design and compliance risks through a maintained technical risk register. Ensure high standards of design quality, safety and buildability at every stage. Health & Safety / CDM * Liaise with the Principal Designer to ensure compliance with CDM Regulations and contribute to the preparation of the Health and Safety File. Person SpecificationKnowledge & Experience * Minimum 7 years post-qualification experience, including at least 3 years with a residential contractor. Proven experience leading the full design cycle on at least three residential apartment schemes (4–10 storeys, 20–100 units). * Strong background in RC frame construction and façade systems. * Experience managing legacy or recovery schemes, with an ability to resolve complex technical and compliance issues. * Excellent understanding of Building Regulations, NHBC standards, and design management best practice. Experience with buildings over 18m in height and post-Grenfell fire safety considerations is advantageous. Skills & Qualities * Proactive and self-motivated, with a forward-thinking approach. * Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities. Strong organisational and planning skills, with meticulous attention to detail. * Clear and confident communicator, able to liaise effectively with clients, consultants, and statutory authorities. * Collaborative team player with a positive, solution-focused attitude. Committed to continuous improvement and professional integrity. What We Offer * Competitive salary and benefits package. * Opportunity to lead a variety of housing and RC frame projects. * Supportive, family-owned company culture that values collaboration and growth. * Career progression opportunities within a forward-thinking construction business