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- Tasks: Lead preconstruction and design teams to deliver high-quality projects efficiently.
- Company: Established specialist contractor in the façade and cladding sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and long-term career progression.
- Other info: Join a growing company with a strong pipeline of work.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on exciting projects while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in preconstruction or design management within construction.
About the Company
Our client is a well-established specialist contractor operating within the façade, cladding and external envelope sector, delivering high-quality projects across the UK. Known for combining technical expertise with a collaborative approach, the business works with major contractors, developers and commercial partners on projects ranging from refurbishment schemes to large-scale new-build developments. With continued growth and a strong pipeline of secured work, they are now seeking an experienced Preconstruction & Design Manager to lead and develop their preconstruction function from their Oldham office.
The Role
This is a key leadership position responsible for overseeing the preconstruction, estimating and design coordination functions within the business. You will manage and support the estimating and preconstruction teams, ensuring tenders, technical submissions and design processes are delivered efficiently, accurately and in line with programme requirements. Working closely with directors, commercial teams, clients and supply chain partners, you will play a vital role in securing new projects and ensuring smooth project mobilisation from enquiry through to handover.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the preconstruction and estimating teams within the office
- Oversee tender enquiries, bid strategy and submission processes
- Coordinate design development and technical compliance during preconstruction stages
- Review drawings, specifications and project requirements to identify risks and opportunities
- Manage workload allocation across estimating and design coordination teams
- Liaise with clients, architects, consultants and main contractors throughout the tender process
- Support value engineering and cost-saving initiatives while maintaining quality and compliance
- Ensure accurate pricing, programme input and technical submissions are completed to deadlines
- Drive continuous improvement within preconstruction systems and procedures
- Support project handovers to operational and delivery teams
- Mentor and develop junior team members
Requirements
- Proven experience in a Preconstruction Manager, Design Manager or Senior Estimating role within construction
- Background within façade, cladding, roofing, external envelope or specialist subcontracting preferred
- Strong understanding of construction design processes and technical coordination
- Experience managing estimating or preconstruction teams
- Commercial awareness with the ability to review project risks and opportunities
- Strong communication and organisational skills
- Ability to manage multiple tenders and deadlines simultaneously
- Proficient with Microsoft Office and estimating / project management systems
What’s on Offer
- Opportunity to join a growing and financially stable specialist contractor
- Key leadership role with genuine influence on company growth and direction
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Long-term career progression opportunities
Preconstruction and Design Manager employer: Zenith Advisory Partners
Contact Detail:
Zenith Advisory Partners Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Preconstruction and Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals at events or online. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it aligns with the role of Preconstruction and Design Manager. Keep it concise but impactful, highlighting your leadership skills and technical expertise.
✨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 take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Preconstruction and Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Preconstruction and Design Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in managing teams, overseeing tenders, and your background in facade or 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 the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past successes in preconstruction and design management, and don’t forget to mention your collaborative approach.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since this role involves a lot of technical coordination, make sure to highlight your proficiency with Microsoft Office and any estimating or project management systems you’ve used. We love seeing candidates who are tech-savvy and can navigate complex design processes!
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. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zenith Advisory Partners
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the façade, cladding, and external envelope sectors. Familiarise yourself with recent projects the company has completed and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their work.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Preconstruction and Design Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've managed estimating or preconstruction teams in the past, focusing on your approach to mentoring and developing junior members.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about construction design processes and technical compliance. Brush up on relevant regulations and standards, and be prepared to discuss how you've navigated risks and opportunities in previous projects.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, especially when discussing complex topics like bid strategy and tender submissions. Remember, it's not just what you say, but how you say it!