At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting design projects and manage the design process from start to finish.
- Company: Join a top-tier contractor known for nurturing talent and career growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and strong mentorship opportunities.
- Other info: Enjoy a balanced work-life with hybrid working options.
- Why this job: Step up your career in a supportive environment with job security.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Exeter, Devon / South West England (Hybrid – 1 Day WFH)
Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 per annum + Package
Contract Type: Permanent
Ready to take the step up to Design Manager? We are currently working with a leading Tier 1 main contractor who is looking for an ambitious Design Manager to join their South West regional team, based out of their Exeter office. This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced Assistant Design Manager who feels ready to take ownership of their own projects, lead the design process, and progress their career with a business that genuinely invests in its people.
Why join this contractor?
- A Launchpad for Your Career: Our client has a fantastic reputation for developing talent from within. You will be joining a supportive, collaborative environment where experienced senior leaders actively mentor and guide developing staff, giving you the backing you need to succeed in your first Design Manager role.
- Future-Proof Pipeline: Secured on a wide range of major public and private sector frameworks, this contractor boasts a busy, long-term order book across the South West. You will enjoy genuine job security and protection against market volatility.
- Clear Progression: With structured development plans and a strong regional presence, there is plenty of scope to advance your career further once established.
- Work-Life Balance: The role offers flexible working arrangements, including 1 day per week working from home alongside time in the Exeter office and on regional sites.
The Role: As Design Manager, you will be responsible for managing the design process from pre-construction through to handover across a variety of exciting building projects in the South West. You will coordinate external consultants, manage design programmes, ensure compliance with building regulations and client requirements, and drive value engineering solutions.
What we are looking for:
- Experience working in a Design Management capacity (such as an Assistant Design Manager or Design Coordinator) for a main contractor, specialist sub-contractor, or consultancy.
- A strong understanding of the construction process, design programmes, and technical coordination.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to manage stakeholders, chair design team meetings, and build strong relationships with clients and consultants.
- A proactive attitude and a desire to step up, take responsibility, and grow within a Tier 1 environment.
Start Date: Our client is ideally looking for someone to start as soon as possible, though they are very happy to wait for the right person up to a 3-month notice period.
How to Apply: If you are an Assistant Design Manager looking for that next step, or an established Design Manager seeking a secure, supportive Tier 1 contractor, we would love to hear from you. Click Apply Now to submit your CV for a confidential discussion.
Design Manager - Step-Up Opportunity in Exeter employer: Velocity Recruitment
Join a dynamic team in Corby as a Skilled Labourer/Forklift Driver, where you will be part of an exciting 10M distribution centre build. Our company prides itself on fostering a supportive work culture that values employee growth and development, offering competitive pay and flexible working arrangements. With opportunities to enhance your skills and advance your career, we are committed to providing a rewarding and meaningful employment experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Step-Up Opportunity in Exeter
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Velocity Recruitment, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Design Manager - Step-Up Opportunity at Velocity Recruitment.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Step-Up Opportunity in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Velocity Recruitment
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
