Senior Design Manager – Fast-Growing Residential Main Contractor – Chelsea Rate/Package: £400 – £500 per day Outside IR35/CIS Gross O’Neill and Brennan are currently working with a fast-growing and highly regarded residential main contractor who are looking to appoint an experienced Senior Design Manager to take ownership of the design function across a growing portfolio of projects in Chelsea and Central London. The successful candidate will play a key role within the business, overseeing the design process across multiple residential projects, with an average project value of approximately £10m and individual schemes ranging up to £25m. This is a genuine opportunity for an experienced Design Manager to take ownership of the design function, rather than simply managing individual packages within a large corporate structure. You will have significant autonomy and will work closely with the company's senior management, project teams, consultants, architects and specialist subcontractors to drive the design process from RIBA Stage 3 through to Stage 6. An architectural background would be welcomed but is by no means essential. The key requirement is strong design management experience, a thorough understanding of the design and construction process, and the ability to take ownership of design delivery within a main contracting environment. Previous residential experience would also be highly beneficial. The business is experiencing significant growth and has a strong pipeline of residential projects. This is therefore an excellent opportunity for someone looking for a long-term freelance position, with the potential to move into a permanent role for the right individual. The role will be based primarily from the company's office in Chelsea, with projects located throughout Central London. Role Overview: Title: Senior Design Manager Project: Multiple Residential Projects Location: Chelsea / Central London Project Values: Typically around £10m, with projects ranging up to £25m Rate: £400 – £500 per day Outside IR35 Start: ASAP Type: Long-Term Freelance / Potential Temp-to-Perm Responsibilities: Taking ownership of the design function across multiple residential projects Managing and coordinating the design process from RIBA Stage 3 through to Stage 6 Leading the design team and coordinating architects, consultants, specialist subcontractors and suppliers Managing the design programme and ensuring design deliverables are aligned with the overall construction programme Reviewing and coordinating design information to ensure it is technically robust, buildable and suitable for construction Leading design reviews and proactively identifying and resolving design issues, clashes and technical risks Managing RFIs, technical queries, design changes and the flow of information throughout the project lifecycle Working closely with the Project Managers and site teams to ensure the design is fully coordinated with construction requirements Working with architects, consultants, clients and specialist subcontractors to develop and deliver the design Supporting the procurement process by ensuring design information is sufficiently developed for subcontractor packages Monitoring design progress and challenging consultants and project stakeholders where required Maintaining oversight of design quality, technical compliance and buildability throughout the project Providing senior-level input into the company's approach to design management as the business continues to grow Helping to establish and develop design management processes and best practice within the wider business Requirements: Proven experience working as a Design Manager / Senior Design Manager within a main contracting environment Strong experience managing design through RIBA Stages 3–6 Experience managing projects of approximately £10m+, with the ability to oversee schemes up to £25m Previous residential experience would be highly beneficial Experience managing multiple projects and/or complex design packages simultaneously Strong understanding of the construction process, technical design and buildability An architectural background would be advantageous but is not essential Strong communication, coordination and stakeholder management skills Ability to work autonomously and take genuine ownership of the design function Comfortable operating within a fast-growing SME environment where there is significant opportunity to influence how the business operates Strong attention to detail with a focus on quality, technical delivery and programme If you're a Senior Design Manager looking for a long-term freelance opportunity where you can take genuine ownership of the design function, rather than being one part of a large corporate structure, this could be an excellent opportunity to join a fast-growing residential main contractor with a strong pipeline of work. For more information, please contact Ned Scott-Mends on (phone number removed), or send your CV via email at . O’Neill and Brennan values diversity and promotes equality, All individuals will be treated in a fair and equal manner and in accordance with the law regardless of gender, marital status, race, religion, colour, age, disability or sexual orientation
Senior Design Manager in Chelsea employer: O'Neill & Brennan
Join a leading construction contractor in Haywards Heath as a Resident Liaison Officer, where you will be at the forefront of community engagement during a major project. Our supportive and collaborative work culture prioritises employee growth, offering opportunities to expand your skills in project logistics while ensuring a positive experience for residents and stakeholders alike. With competitive pay and a commitment to diversity and equality, this role is perfect for those looking to make a meaningful impact in their community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Design Manager in Chelsea
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like O'Neill & Brennan, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Senior Design Manager at O'Neill & Brennan.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at O'Neill & Brennan
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
