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- Tasks: Lead innovative design solutions for exciting construction projects from start to finish.
- Company: Join a well-respected regional contractor with a strong project pipeline in the South West.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary up to £65,000 plus car allowance and great perks.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team delivering high-quality projects that make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in design management and relevant qualifications in Construction, Architecture, or Engineering.
- Other info: Work locally in Exeter, minimising travel while advancing your career.
The predicted salary is between 52000 - 78000 £ per year.
Design Manager – Regional Contractor (Exeter)
Location: Exeter, UK | Job Type: Permanent
Take the Design Lead on Exciting Construction Projects!
Are you an experienced Design Manager looking to work with a leading regional contractor? Do you have a passion for delivering high-quality construction projects from concept to completion? If so, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-respected contractor with a strong pipeline of projects across the South West.
The Role
As a Design Manager, you will play a crucial role in ensuring innovative and efficient design solutions across a variety of construction projects. You will collaborate with architects, consultants, and project teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage the Design Process – Oversee all design stages from pre-construction to project completion.
- Coordination & Compliance – Work closely with architects, consultants, and internal teams to ensure designs are practical, cost-effective, and compliant with regulations.
- Value Engineering – Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and buildability.
- Stakeholder Engagement – Liaise with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure smooth communication.
- Technical Oversight – Ensure all designs align with current building regulations, sustainability targets, and industry best practices.
- Risk Management – Identify and resolve potential design challenges before they impact project timelines.
What We\’re Looking For
- Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor or developer environment.
- Strong understanding of construction methods, building regulations, and technical design coordination.
- Experience working on commercial, education, healthcare, or mixed-use projects.
- Excellent problem-solving and communication skills to manage design challenges.
- Ability to lead design team meetings and coordinate effectively with stakeholders.
- Relevant qualifications in Construction, Architecture, or Engineering.
Why Join?
- Career Progression – Work with a contractor that values growth and development.
- Exciting Projects – Be part of a team delivering high-quality, innovative construction projects.
- Competitive Salary & Benefits – Up to £70,000 + Car Allowance and package.
- South West Focus – Work on projects in and around Exeter, reducing excessive travel.
How to Apply
If you\’re a Design Manager looking for an exciting opportunity with a leading regional contractor, we\’d love to hear from you! Send your CV as instructed or call for a confidential discussion. This role is handled by Sphere Solutions, a specialist in construction recruitment.
Our Commitment to Inclusion
As a recruitment agency, we are committed to promoting inclusive opportunities on behalf of our clients. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from under-represented communities. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or require adjustments during the recruitment process, we\’ll work with you and the client to ensure a fair and supportive experience. We aim to represent employers who foster respectful, inclusive and collaborative workplaces – regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity or background.
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Contact Detail:
Sphere Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the construction industry, especially those who have experience as Design Managers. Attend local industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about upcoming opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the specific projects that the regional contractor is currently involved in. Understanding their portfolio will help you tailor your conversations and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in managing design processes and how you've successfully navigated challenges in past projects. Be ready to provide examples of your problem-solving skills and stakeholder engagement.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with current building regulations and sustainability targets relevant to the South West region. Showing that you are up-to-date with industry standards can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as a Design Manager, focusing on relevant projects you've worked on. Emphasise your skills in managing the design process, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with building regulations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for construction and design management. Mention specific projects or experiences that align with the role's responsibilities, such as value engineering or risk management.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: In your application, clearly state your qualifications in Construction, Architecture, or Engineering. This will demonstrate your technical knowledge and suitability for the role.
Showcase Problem-Solving Skills: Provide examples in your application of how you've successfully managed design challenges in past projects. This will illustrate your ability to handle the complexities of the role effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sphere Solutions
✨Showcase Your Project Experience
Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've managed as a Design Manager. Highlight your role in overseeing the design process, coordinating with teams, and ensuring compliance with regulations. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and ability to deliver high-quality results.
✨Emphasise Communication Skills
Since stakeholder engagement is crucial for this role, be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively communicated with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers. Discuss any challenges you faced and how you resolved them through clear communication.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare to discuss instances where you've identified and resolved design challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers, showcasing your analytical skills and ability to think on your feet.
✨Understand Current Trends and Regulations
Stay updated on the latest building regulations and sustainability targets relevant to the construction industry. Being knowledgeable about current trends will not only impress your interviewers but also show your commitment to delivering innovative design solutions.
