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- Tasks: Lead design meetings and coordinate with teams on exciting college projects.
- Company: Join a dynamic team working on major new build projects in West London.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible freelance contract, and impactful work experience.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in education by driving innovative design solutions.
- Qualifications: Relevant construction or architecture qualification and main contractor experience required.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a high-value project environment.
Freelance Design Manager – New Build College Projects (West London)
Location: West London (site/project-based)
Contract: Freelance / Contract (CIS/Ltd)
Start: ASAP
Rate: £300 - £375 per day (Dependent on Experience)
My client is looking for a Freelance Design Manager to join a major new build college project in West London. The scheme’s design is already developed, and the project is currently at RIBA Stage 2. We need someone who can confidently take the lead on design meetings, driving coordination with consultants and internal project teams to ensure the design is delivered efficiently, compliantly, and in line with programme and budget.
Job Purpose & Scope
You will support the design process to develop and deliver a design that meets all contractual requirements, using cost-effective and buildable solutions. You’ll play a key role in coordination across design, procurement, and construction to ensure the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the client’s requirements.
Overall responsibility for:
- Liaison between the Client, Design Consultants, and project staff
- Liaison with the Site Manager for the development of design packages and procurement strategies
Key Accountabilities & Tasks
- Support the Design Manager in leading the design process across preconstruction and construction phases
- Assist with overseeing design consultants, ensuring compliance, buildability, and efficiency
- Support liaison between client, consultants, project teams, and site management
- Coordinate the preparation, review, and support sign-off of all design documentation
- Ensure robust flow and control of design information, aligned to Document Management Procedures
- Support commercial and procurement teams in developing design packages and procurement strategies
- Represent the Client in meetings with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies
- Support design input relating to environmental certifications (e.g., BREEAM)
- Contribute to risk management and design quality reviews at key stages
- Support the facilitation of design handovers between preconstruction and site teams
Essential Criteria
- Relevant Construction or Architecture qualification
- Previous main contractor experience
- Strong understanding of the Design & Build process
- Excellent knowledge of design process through commercial and construction design stages
- Good working knowledge of the RIBA Plan of Work
- Strong in-depth technical knowledge
- Good knowledge of the planning process
- Proven experience managing design across multiple project types (e.g., Residential, Schools, Hospitals, Student Accommodation)
- Working knowledge of Building Regulations
Why this role?
This is a great opportunity to step into a live, high-value education project at an early stage and make a genuine impact—driving coordination, decision-making, and design delivery through the next phases.
Design Manager Freelance employer: Invision Group
Contact Detail:
Invision Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager Freelance
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry folks at events or online. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a design manager role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! When you land an interview, bring along examples of your past projects. This will help you demonstrate your experience and how you can add value to the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about how you’d handle design challenges or conflicts in a project. Being ready with real-life examples will show you’re the right fit for the role.
✨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 Freelance
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in managing design processes and working with consultants, as this will show us you understand what we're looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this freelance position. Share specific examples of your past projects and how you've successfully led design meetings or coordinated with teams.
Showcase Your Technical Knowledge: We want to see your strong understanding of the Design & Build process. Mention any relevant qualifications and your experience with RIBA stages, as this will demonstrate your expertise in the field.
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 this exciting opportunity in West London.
How to prepare for a job interview at Invision Group
✨Know Your Design Process
Make sure you brush up on the design process, especially the RIBA Plan of Work. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed design across various project types in the past, as this will show your understanding and experience in the field.
✨Showcase Your Coordination Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively liaised between clients, consultants, and project teams. Highlight specific instances where your coordination led to successful outcomes, as this role heavily relies on strong communication and collaboration.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions that dive deep into your technical knowledge and understanding of building regulations. Brush up on relevant codes and standards, and be prepared to explain how you've applied them in previous projects.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of challenges you've faced in past projects and how you overcame them. This role requires someone who can manage risks and ensure design quality, so showcasing your problem-solving skills will be crucial during the interview.
