At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design teams and manage façade and cladding projects from concept to completion.
- Company: Established contractor with a focus on quality and compliance in construction.
- Benefits: Ongoing training, professional development, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Join a supportive team passionate about innovation and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a key leadership role within a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in managing design processes for residential or high-rise projects.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 £ per year.
We are recruiting on behalf of an established and growing contractor seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to lead the design and technical delivery of façade and cladding projects. This is a key leadership role where you will oversee the full design lifecycle, from concept through to completion, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and compliance.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage internal design teams, subcontractors, and external consultants across all project phases.
- Ensure designs are fully coordinated, compliant with current regulations, and aligned with company standards.
- Develop, manage, and monitor project-specific design programmes and budgets.
- Review technical submissions, alternative construction methods, and value engineering opportunities.
- Coordinate closely with Commercial, Operations, and Client teams on all design matters.
- Oversee document control, design approvals, and change management processes.
- Attend site visits and project meetings to ensure construction aligns with design intent.
- Ensure timely completion of handover documentation, including O&M manuals, H&S files, and resident packs.
Requirements
- Proven experience managing design and technical processes on residential and/or high-rise projects.
- Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
- In-depth knowledge of façades, cladding systems, and construction methods.
- Solid understanding of relevant legislation, including the Building Safety Act.
- Proficiency in CAD software such as AutoCAD or Revit, and familiarity with BIM processes.
Personal Qualities
- Proactive and solutions-driven, with the ability to perform under pressure.
- Confident, resourceful, and collaborative in approach.
- Passionate about technical excellence, innovation, and sustainability.
- Strong analytical skills with a high level of attention to detail.
What’s on Offer
- Ongoing training and professional development.
- Opportunities to broaden experience in commercial systems, compliance, and operations.
- A supportive, collaborative, and professional working environment.
- Clear and structured career progression.
Design Lead - to be a manager in London employer: Thomas Gray
Join a dynamic and forward-thinking contractor that prioritises innovation and sustainability in the design and delivery of façade and cladding projects. As a Design Lead, you will benefit from ongoing training and professional development within a supportive and collaborative work culture, ensuring your career progression is both clear and structured. This role not only offers the chance to lead impactful projects but also to work alongside talented professionals who are passionate about technical excellence and compliance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Lead - to be a manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend design and construction events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Design Lead role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best design projects, especially those involving façades and cladding systems. This will give potential employers a clear view of your skills and experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of current regulations and construction methods. Be ready to discuss how you've led teams and managed design processes in past projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Lead - to be a manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Lead role. Highlight your experience in managing design processes and leading teams, especially in façade and cladding 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 passionate about this role and how your background makes you the perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your knowledge of relevant legislation and construction methods.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Since this role requires proficiency in CAD software like AutoCAD or Revit, make sure to highlight your technical skills clearly. If you've worked with BIM processes, let us know! We love seeing candidates who are tech-savvy.
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 from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at Thomas Gray
✨Know Your Design Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of façades and cladding systems. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, highlighting your role in managing design processes and ensuring compliance with regulations like the Building Safety Act.
✨Show Off Your Leadership Skills
As a Design Lead, you'll need to demonstrate strong leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams, managed subcontractors, and coordinated with various stakeholders to deliver projects on time and within budget.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about technical submissions and alternative construction methods. Brush up on value engineering opportunities and be prepared to discuss how you've implemented innovative solutions in past projects.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing complex design concepts or project challenges. Remember, confidence is key, so don’t hesitate to showcase your passion for technical excellence and sustainability.
