Design Manager - Education & Defence Projects (Southampton)

Experienced / ambitious Design Manager required to work with a leading Tier 1 main contractor to help manage the preconstruction design process and then construction phase for either one of several new build education projects in the Southampton area, or a large new build defence project. Working initially with a Senior Design Manager, you will be based in the Southampton office throughout the PCSA phase, then move on to site with the delivery team when works commence through the construction phase. Reporting to the Preconstruction Manager and working closely with the Senior Design Manager and with the wider preconstruction team, you will help to manage the detailed design development for your scheme through second stage, engaging with client, stakeholders, supply chain and end users. Thereafter you will take full responsibility for design management through the construction phase, based on site and working closely with the project delivery team throughout the construction.

Responsibilities

• Management of design development for your project
• Chairing regular design team meetings
• Management of consultant design team
• Regular liaison with clients, stakeholders and end users
• Engagement with and managing specialist sub-contractor design teams
• Agreement of information required schedule; Ensuring key dates achieved
• Review of construction design information for buildability, compliance with contractors proposals, employer's requirements, budget, current building legislation, etc
• Identifying opportunities for value engineering where appropriate
• Proactive issue resolution
• Overall managing the smooth and timely delivery of detailed design information for procurement and construction throughout the preconstruction and build process

This is a progressive role intended to develop an ambitious Design Manager or high performing Assistant Design Manager toward the SDM role over the next few years, establishing the positive client relationships and sector knowledge.

Qualifications and Experience

Either from an Engineering/Construction delivery or Architectural background, you will possess excellent technical and commercial knowledge, a keen understanding of construction methodology, materials and systems, procurement lead in times, etc. You will have excellent communication and negotiations skills, strong planning and problem-solving ability, initiative and a positive approach. In terms of character, you will be a driven, positive, thorough and detail focused. You will be an ambitious individual able to work well within a larger team dynamic. You will ideally have a proven track record of successful project delivery with a recognised Main Contractor in a Design Management role, plus previous experience of education sector projects would be advantageous but not essential. High standards, attention to detail and the drive to deliver on programme, specification and budget will be very well rewarded with excellent salary, benefits, promotional and development prospects.

Company Background

This role is to work with the regional office of a busy Tier 1 national main contractor, with experience and a proven track record in the delivery of new build and refurbishment schemes in defence, primary and secondary education, healthcare, higher education faculty buildings, student accommodation, blue light, etc. Turnover is circa £100m for the region primarily in the Hampshire, Wiltshire and Dorset areas. This project is one of several new build education projects in the area.