At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design delivery of a luxury private residence, managing the full design lifecycle.
- Company: Prestigious firm specialising in high-end residential projects.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for career advancement.
- Why this job: Shape a £20 million luxury home and showcase your design leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in Architecture or related field with extensive design management experience.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to lead the design delivery of a high-value, one-off luxury private residence valued at approximately £20 million. This role will be responsible for managing the full design lifecycle, from concept through to completion, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest levels of quality and specification.
Working closely with the client, architect, consultants, and contractor teams, the successful candidate will act as the key interface for design coordination, technical assurance, and design programme management.
Key Responsibilities- Design Leadership & Coordination
- Lead and manage the design process across all project stages (RIBA Stages 1–7).
- Act as the primary point of contact between client, architects, consultants, and contractor teams.
- Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring integration across architecture, structural, MEP, and specialist packages.
- Drive design quality consistent with a high-end bespoke residential specification.
- Programme & Deliverables Management
- Develop, monitor, and manage the design programme in alignment with the overall project schedule.
- Ensure timely production and review of design deliverables.
- Identify design risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies.
- Manage design changes and ensure proper documentation and approvals.
- Technical Oversight
- Review design information for buildability, compliance, and completeness.
- Ensure designs meet planning conditions, building regulations, and client requirements.
- Coordinate technical submissions, RFIs, and design approvals.
- Support value engineering exercises without compromising design intent or quality.
- Stakeholder Management
- Build strong relationships with private client(s), often involving high levels of discretion and professionalism.
- Liaise with local authorities, planning consultants, and statutory bodies where required.
- Manage expectations of demanding stakeholders typical of ultra-prime residential projects.
- Procurement & Construction Support
- Support procurement of design packages and specialist subcontractors.
- Ensure design information is aligned with procurement strategies and construction sequencing.
- Provide ongoing design support during construction, including site visits and coordination meetings.
- Oversee resolution of design issues arising on site.
- Quality Assurance
- Ensure the highest standards of design quality, detailing, and finish commensurate with a £20m private home.
- Monitor compliance with employer’s requirements and design standards.
- Coordinate mock-ups, samples, and approvals for bespoke elements.
- Qualifications & Experience
- Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction-related discipline.
- Extensive experience in design management within high-end residential or luxury projects.
- Proven track record delivering bespoke, one-off projects (ideally £10m+ value).
- Strong understanding of RIBA Plan of Work and UK construction regulations.
- Technical Skills
- Excellent knowledge of architectural detailing, materials, and construction techniques.
- Experience managing multidisciplinary consultant teams.
- Strong understanding of design coordination tools and document control systems.
- Commercial awareness, including cost implications of design decisions.
- Soft Skills
- Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Ability to manage high expectations from private clients and design teams.
- Strong leadership, organisational, and problem-solving abilities.
- High attention to detail and commitment to quality.
- Desirable Experience
- Experience working on ultra-prime residential, listed buildings, or heritage projects.
- Knowledge of bespoke interiors, artisan finishes, and specialist suppliers.
- Familiarity with BIM processes and digital coordination tools.
- Experience working in client-side or developer-led environments.
- Reports to: Project Director / Client Representative
- Direct Reports: Design Coordinators / Assistant Design Managers (if applicable)
- Delivery of design packages in line with programme milestones
- Quality and accuracy of coordinated design information
- Minimal design-related delays or cost overruns
- Client satisfaction and adherence to brief
- Successful integration of bespoke and high-spec elements
Combination of office, site-based, and client-facing meetings. High level of confidentiality due to the nature of private residential work.
Senior Design Manager in Sunningdale employer: Sphere Solutions
As a Senior Design Manager at our prestigious firm, you will be part of a dynamic and innovative team dedicated to delivering exceptional luxury residential projects. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that values creativity and excellence, offering ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Located in a vibrant area, our company provides a unique environment where your expertise will be recognised and rewarded, ensuring a fulfilling career path in the high-end design sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Design Manager in Sunningdale
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend design events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Senior Design Manager role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your portfolio! Make sure it highlights your best work, especially those high-end projects. A well-organised portfolio can speak volumes about your design capabilities and experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing luxury residential designs. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Design Manager in Sunningdale
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing high-end residential projects and your understanding of the RIBA Plan of Work. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past successes in design management and how you’ve handled demanding stakeholders. We love a good story!
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to highlight your technical skills in architectural detailing and construction techniques. Mention any experience with BIM processes or document control systems, as these are key for us in ensuring quality and compliance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sphere Solutions
✨Know Your Design Lifecycle
Make sure you’re well-versed in the full design lifecycle, especially RIBA Stages 1–7. Be ready to discuss how you've managed projects from concept to completion, and share specific examples of how you ensured quality and adherence to timelines.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your exceptional stakeholder management abilities. Think of instances where you’ve successfully liaised with clients, architects, and contractors, especially in high-pressure situations. Highlight your communication style and how you manage expectations.
✨Technical Know-How is Key
Brush up on your technical knowledge regarding architectural detailing, materials, and construction techniques. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve ensured compliance with building regulations and planning conditions in past projects.
✨Emphasise Quality Assurance
Quality is paramount in luxury projects, so be ready to talk about your approach to maintaining high standards. Share examples of how you’ve monitored design quality and resolved issues on-site, ensuring that bespoke elements meet client expectations.
