Design Manager in England

Design Manager in England

England Full-Time 55000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
The FR Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead design management for exciting new build education and defence projects.
  • Company: Join a top-tier contractor with a strong track record in construction.
  • Benefits: Attractive salary, career growth, and professional development opportunities.
  • Other info: Dynamic team environment focused on collaboration and excellence.
  • Why this job: Shape the future of education and defence through innovative design management.
  • Qualifications: Experience in engineering, construction, or architecture with strong communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.

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 the wider preconstruction team, you will help to manage the detailed design development for your scheme through second stage, engaging with clients, 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 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 negotiation 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 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.

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.

Design Manager in England employer: The FR Group

Join a leading Tier 1 main contractor in Southampton, where your role as a Design Manager will be pivotal in shaping innovative education and defence projects. With a strong focus on employee development, you will benefit from a collaborative work culture that encourages ambition and offers clear pathways for career progression. Enjoy competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits, and the opportunity to work on impactful projects that contribute to the community.

The FR Group

Contact Details:

The FR Group Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Design Manager in England

Network Like a Pro

Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend local events, join online forums, or even hit up LinkedIn. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Design Manager role.

Show Off Your Skills

When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, don’t hold back! Share your past successes and how you’ve tackled challenges in design management. Let them see the value you can bring to their projects.

Tailor Your Approach

Every company is different, so make sure you tailor your pitch to fit their needs. Research the projects they’re working on and highlight how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in education or defence sectors.

Apply Through Our Website

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!

We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager in England

Design Management
Construction Methodology
Technical Knowledge
Commercial Knowledge
Communication Skills
Negotiation Skills
Planning Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing design processes, especially in education or defence projects. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!

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 they relate to our projects.

Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves liaising with clients and stakeholders, make sure to showcase your communication skills in your application. We love candidates who can articulate their thoughts clearly and effectively!

Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!

How to prepare for a job interview at The FR Group

Know Your Projects Inside Out

Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the specific education and defence projects the company is working on. Familiarise yourself with the design management processes and challenges they might face. This will help you demonstrate your knowledge and show that you're genuinely interested in their work.

Showcase Your Communication Skills

As a Design Manager, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with clients, consultants, and team members in past projects. Highlight your ability to chair meetings and resolve issues proactively, as this will be crucial for the role.

Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities

Think of specific instances where you've identified issues during the design or construction phases and how you resolved them. Be ready to discuss your approach to value engineering and ensuring compliance with regulations, as these are key aspects of the job.

Emphasise Your Team Spirit

This role requires working closely with a larger team dynamic. Share experiences that showcase your ability to collaborate effectively with others, whether it's managing a consultant design team or engaging with specialist sub-contractors. Highlight your ambition and drive to contribute positively to the team's success.