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- Tasks: Lead design for a luxury residential project in Central London, managing teams and ensuring compliance.
- Company: Join a top-tier contractor known for delivering high-spec residential schemes with innovation and precision.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive package including bonuses, pension, travel perks, and clear career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a flagship project from the start, influencing design and buildability in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Design Manager on major residential projects; architecture or project management background preferred.
- Other info: Interviews are being scheduled now, so don’t miss your chance to apply!
The predicted salary is between 88000 - 104000 £ per year.
Job Description
I'm working with a residential main contractor in Central London who are looking for a Senior Design Manager as a part of an exciting new design team. Offering up to £95,000 plus package, this is a proper opportunity to shape something rather than just slot into an existing team.
They specialise in mid to high-rise residential blocks across Central London and need someone who knows their way around high-rise building regs, Building Safety Act, and Gateway processes inside out. You'll be setting up how design works across in this new division and building the team as you go.
The Role:
You'll be running design delivery on mid to high-rise residential projects across Central London while simultaneously building the design function. That means establishing processes, bringing in good people, and working out how design interfaces with the rest of the business.
Day-to-day you'll be coordinating design teams, managing architects and consultants, leading Gateway 2 submissions, and making sure everything's BSR compliant. You'll also be dealing with housing associations and developer clients, running buildability reviews, and generally making sure design risks are managed properly.
Because this is a new setup, you'll have genuine input into how things are done. You're not walking into someone else's system!
What You Need:
Strong main contracting background as a Senior Design Manager on residential schemes. High-rise building regulations knowledge is essential, as is a solid understanding of Building Safety Act 2022 and BSR requirements. You need to have managed Gateway 2 submissions.
You should have a good track record on mid to high-rise residential projects and be comfortable building and leading teams. Ideally you've worked with housing associations before and know how to handle multiple stakeholders.
Degree qualified in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management or similar.
The Package:
Up to £95,000 depending on experience, plus company car or allowance, performance bonus, pension, private healthcare, 25 days holiday plus bank holidays.
More importantly, you get to build a design division properly rather than inheriting someone else's mess. Real influence over team structure, processes, and how design is delivered across some decent Central London schemes.
Why It's Worth Looking At:
This suits someone who's done senior design management and wants more autonomy. If you're tired of working within rigid structures and want to actually shape how things work, this is worth a conversation.
The contractor is ambitious, the schemes are good quality mid to high-rise residential, and you'll have proper backing from senior leadership to build this properly.
Drop me a message or apply if you want to know more.
Senior Design Manager employer: tdm recruitment
Contact Detail:
tdm recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the construction and design industry, especially those who have experience with Tier 1 contractors. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and mentors who can provide insights into the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in high-end residential design and construction. Being knowledgeable about luxury finishes, bespoke façades, and complex structural interfaces will help you stand out as a candidate who understands the demands of the project.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous experiences managing design programmes and leading teams. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated complex design issues and ensured compliance with regulations and standards.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s past projects and their approach to design management. Understanding their values and methodologies will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews, demonstrating that you are aligned with their vision and capable of contributing effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager. Focus on your achievements in managing complex residential projects, and emphasise your understanding of UK Building Regulations and design compliance.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for high-end residential design. Mention specific projects you've worked on that align with the job description, and explain how your skills can contribute to the success of the flagship luxury apartment project.
Highlight Leadership Skills: In your application, emphasise your leadership and coordination skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully led design teams, chaired meetings, and resolved complex design issues collaboratively.
Showcase Technical Knowledge: Demonstrate your technical knowledge by discussing your experience with BIM protocols, buildability reviews, and value engineering. This will show that you are well-equipped to handle the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
How to prepare for a job interview at tdm recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Design Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led design teams, managed complex projects, and resolved conflicts. Highlight your experience in chairing meetings and driving compliance.
✨Understand the Project's Technical Aspects
Familiarise yourself with the technical requirements of high-specification residential schemes. Be ready to discuss your knowledge of UK Building Regulations, fire safety strategies, and how you’ve handled buildability reviews in past projects.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Prepare to discuss specific scenarios where you had to mitigate technical risks or manage planning conditions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the contractor's reputation for structured delivery and talent nurturing. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their culture of innovation and precision in project delivery.
