Senior Design Manager

Overview

A fast-growing, family-run main contractor who have scaled to £100m turnover in just 9 years, with clear plans to reach £250m over the next 5 years. Founded by two brothers, they’ve built a strong reputation across the Industrial & Logistics and Commercial sector, delivering projects typically ranging from £5m–£50m.

With a new Midlands office and expansion into new sectors, the business is entering an exciting phase of growth, offering genuine opportunity to be part of that journey.

They operate in a highly buoyant market, driven by the continued rise of e-commerce and demand for logistics infrastructure, working with major, well-established clients.

What really sets them apart

• 50% of directors are women, with strong diversity across senior leadership
• Company-wide bonuses (from cleaners through to directors)
• 4.5-day working week promoting work-life balance, which will transition to a 4 day week by the end of this year
• Exceptional staff retention and a clear focus on internal progression
• Opportunity to take ownership and be the “face” of projects, regardless of level

The Role

As a Senior Design Manager, you’ll take ownership of design management across multiple projects within the London & South region, ensuring consistency, quality, and delivery in line with company standards.

This is a hybrid role, combining office, site, and stakeholder interaction, giving you real exposure across the full project lifecycle.

Key responsibilities

• Leading design development and coordination from tender handover through to completion
• Ensuring compliance with statutory, regulatory, and client requirements
• Managing design risks and driving value engineering opportunities
• Coordinating multidisciplinary design teams and external consultants
• Overseeing design programmes, key milestones, and critical package releases
• Collaborating closely with construction, commercial, and procurement teams
• Mentoring and supporting Design Managers within the team

What They’re Looking For

• Proven experience in a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager role within a main contracting environment
• Strong understanding of design development across RIBA Stages 3–6
• Ability to lead and coordinate multidisciplinary teams
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• CSCS Card & full UK driving licence

Why This Role?

This is a standout opportunity to join a cash-rich, growing contractor where you won’t just be another number. You’ll play a key role in shaping projects, influencing design strategy, and contributing to a business with ambitious growth plans and a genuinely people-first culture.