Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design process for a prestigious housing development and collaborate with teams.
- Company: Join Watkin Jones Group, a leading developer with a rich history and future focus.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive rewards, professional growth, and a great work-life balance.
- Other info: Be part of a company committed to creating high-quality rental homes and vibrant communities.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 5 or equivalent, knowledge of Building Regulations, and design software skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 75000 ÂŁ per year.
We are pleased to present an exciting opportunity for a Senior Design Manager to join our team and contribute to our prestigious 295–home development in St Helens, Merseyside. In this role, you will lead the full design process across the entire lifecycle of the project. You will be responsible for reviewing design proposals from both internal teams and external consultants, ensuring that the most efficient, practical, and cost–effective solutions are delivered. The position also involves attending design team meetings, both internally and with external partners, to collaborate, share updates, and drive progress.
In addition, the Senior Design Manager will work closely with the procurement team to assess alternative design options proposed by sub–contractors and will review design drawings to ensure they align with current building regulations. You will also play a key role in researching innovative products and recommending alternative construction methods to enhance the overall development.
About You
To be successful in this role, you will have an NVQ Level 5 qualification (or equivalent) and solid knowledge of Building Regulations. A strong understanding of JCT (Joint Contracts Tribunal) contracts is also essential. You should be confident in making well–reasoned decisions and have the ability to constructively challenge design concepts and present your point of view clearly.
You’ll need to be proficient in MS Word and Excel, with an intermediate level of experience in AutoCAD and Adobe Acrobat. Experience with high–rise developments and knowledge of the residential‑for‑rent market will be highly advantageous.
What We Offer
- Professional Growth: Individual support for your career advancement.
- Rewards: Discretionary annual bonus, health cash plan, life insurance, and more.
- Work‑Life Balance: 25 days of annual leave (increasing with tenure), agile working arrangements, and discounted gym memberships.
- Benefits: Exclusive shopping discounts, and a contributory pension scheme.
Why Choose Watkin Jones Group?
Watkin Jones Group is the UK’s leading developer, builder, and manager of residential‑for‑rent homes, with a rich history dating back to 1791. With 54,000+ homes developed and in‑build across over 254 schemes, we have a proven track record of success. Our operating arm, Fresh, manages over 18,500 units across 58 schemes, representing approximately £1.7bn of assets under management.
Joining us means becoming part of a company that’s not only deeply rooted in history but also firmly focused on the future. We’re committed to creating high‑quality rental homes, fostering vibrant communities, and driving sustainable development. This is more than just a job – it’s a chance to grow your career in a fast‑paced, innovative environment. If you’re ready to make a significant impact and advance your career with a market leader, we’d love to hear from you!
Design Manager in London employer: Watkin Jones PLC
Contact Detail:
Watkin Jones PLC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts, attend design events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that dream role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your designs do the talking.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in high-rise developments and innovative construction methods.
✨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 genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience with design processes, building regulations, and any relevant projects you've worked on. 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 understanding of JCT contracts and your experience with high-rise developments.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since proficiency in MS Word, Excel, AutoCAD, and Adobe Acrobat is key, make sure to highlight these skills in your application. If you have any specific projects that demonstrate your technical abilities, include those too!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Watkin Jones PLC
✨Know Your Design Regulations
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Building Regulations and JCT contracts before the interview. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you’re not just familiar with the basics, but that you can navigate complex regulations effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Senior Design Manager, you'll be leading teams and making decisions. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led design processes in the past, especially in high-rise developments. This will demonstrate your capability to manage projects and collaborate with both internal and external teams.
✨Be Ready to Challenge Ideas
The role requires you to constructively challenge design concepts. Think of instances where you’ve done this before and be ready to discuss your thought process. This shows that you’re not afraid to voice your opinions and can contribute to innovative solutions.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools
Since proficiency in AutoCAD and Adobe Acrobat is essential, make sure you’re comfortable discussing your experience with these tools. You might even want to bring along a portfolio showcasing your work to highlight your skills and creativity.