Design Manager / Senior Design Manager
Design Manager / Senior Design Manager

Design Manager / Senior Design Manager

Full-Time 60000 - 75000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
Recco

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead design processes and manage relationships for fire safety remediation projects.
  • Company: Reputable main contractor in the residential sector with rapid growth.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, travel allowance, 25 days leave, and career progression.
  • Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for site visits and diverse project exposure.
  • Why this job: Join a growing team and make a real impact on vital safety projects.
  • Qualifications: Experience in managing designers and delivering refurbishment projects.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.

We are currently partnering with a well-established and highly reputable main contractor specialising in the residential sector. Their expertise covers mixed-tenure housing developments, multi-sector residential schemes, and full lifecycle building safety remediation works — including assessment, recladding, and internal refurbishment. Despite being relatively new to the market, the business has experienced exceptional growth, already securing 80% of its projected 2026 turnover. With a strong pipeline and an expanding client base, they are on track to achieve a £50m turnover by 2028.

They are now looking to appoint an experienced and driven Design Manager / Senior Design Manager to lead and support the delivery of multiple projects across a diverse client portfolio nationwide. The majority of current projects focus on fire safety remediation across both Non-HRB and HRB buildings. The role will be primarily based in their City of London office, with occasional site visits as required. You will also have exposure to a range of Gateway 2 projects.

Person Specification

  • Proven experience working for a main contractor, with a strong track record of managing external designers and client relationships
  • Significant experience delivering refurbishment and remediation projects
  • Strong understanding of fire safety remediation, including PAS 9980 and the FRAEW process
  • In-depth knowledge of the HRB regulatory regime, including Gateway processes and associated obligations
  • Good understanding of standard building regulations outside of the Gateway framework

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the coordination of the design process from tender through to project completion
  • Manage relationships with external design teams, consultants, and clients to ensure design intent, compliance, and buildability
  • Oversee and drive design programmes, ensuring documentation is delivered in line with project timelines and regulatory requirements
  • Lead on fire safety remediation projects, ensuring adherence to PAS 9980 and FRAEW processes
  • Work closely with site teams to provide design leadership and resolve complex technical challenges
  • Ensure all designs comply with the HRB regime and relevant Gateway requirements

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and package
  • Travel allowance
  • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
  • Opportunity to join a growing and ambitious business with strong career progression potential

Design Manager / Senior Design Manager employer: Recco

Join a dynamic and rapidly growing main contractor in the heart of London, where your expertise as a Design Manager / Senior Design Manager will be valued and nurtured. With a strong focus on fire safety remediation and a commitment to employee development, you will enjoy a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and a supportive work culture that encourages innovation and career progression. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a company that is not only achieving remarkable growth but also making a significant impact in the residential sector.
Recco

Contact Detail:

Recco Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Design Manager / Senior Design Manager

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals at events or online. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can land you that Design Manager gig.

✨Tip Number 2

Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your experience in fire safety remediation and refurbishment projects. We want to see your best work, so make sure it’s easy to access and visually appealing.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare for interviews by brushing up on the latest regulations and processes like PAS 9980 and FRAEW. We need to demonstrate that you’re not just knowledgeable but also passionate about compliance and safety in design.

✨Tip Number 4

Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. We’re always on the lookout for driven individuals ready to take on exciting challenges in the residential sector.

We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager / Senior Design Manager

Design Management
Project Coordination
Client Relationship Management
Fire Safety Remediation
Knowledge of PAS 9980
Understanding of FRAEW Process
HRB Regulatory Knowledge
Gateway Processes Expertise
Building Regulations Knowledge
Technical Problem-Solving
Documentation Management
Team Leadership
Communication Skills
Adaptability

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience with fire safety remediation and managing external designers, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills in delivering refurbishment projects.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you're passionate about design management and how your background aligns with our focus on residential projects. Be sure to mention any relevant experience with the HRB regulatory regime.

Showcase Your Project Experience: In your application, don’t forget to detail your experience with similar projects. We want to see how you've led design processes and managed client relationships, especially in fire safety remediation. Specifics will help us understand your fit!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows us you’re keen to join our growing team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Recco

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of fire safety remediation and the HRB regulatory regime. Familiarise yourself with PAS 9980 and the FRAEW process, as these will likely come up in conversation. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're serious about the role.

✨Showcase Your Experience

Prepare specific examples from your past work where you've successfully managed external designers or led refurbishment projects. Highlight your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Design Manager position. This will help demonstrate your capability to handle the challenges of the role.

✨Build Relationships

Since managing client relationships is key, think about how you can convey your interpersonal skills during the interview. Share stories that illustrate your ability to collaborate effectively with clients and design teams, ensuring that everyone is aligned with the project goals.

✨Ask Smart Questions

Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's current projects and future plans. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand how you can contribute to their growth. It’s also a great way to assess if the company culture aligns with your values.

Design Manager / Senior Design Manager
Recco

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