Overview
We are seeking an experienced and driven Senior Design Manager to lead and support the design management process across high-value and complex construction projects. This role plays a pivotal part in shaping design strategy, ensuring safety, quality, and compliance throughout the project lifecycle, and enhancing collaboration across all stakeholders. You will act as a key influencer during pre-construction and project delivery phases, with opportunities to drive innovation and efficiency across the business.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Leadership Responsibilities:
Influence stakeholders and integrate design processes throughout the lifecycle of high-value schemes and complex projects.
Implement CDM (Construction Design and Management) regulations and Safe by Design principles to prioritise safety.
Support the Head of Design Management in developing best practices, design management communities, and a suite of supporting documentation.
Lead the implementation of the Design Management Activity Map, tools, and standards to drive consistency and reduce project risk.
Pre-Construction Phase:
Shape robust design strategies aligned with client requirements and tender opportunities.
Identify and resolve design scope gaps, surveys, and fee inconsistencies.
Review design capability of consultants and ensure alignment with project strategy.
Support development of coordinated design, procurement, and construction programmes.
Oversee the design delivery to ensure it meets client expectations.
Project Delivery Phase:
Develop and manage the Design Management Plan based on bid strategy.
Lead design launch meetings and manage communication lines among design teams.
Ensure smooth coordination between temporary and permanent works and manage statutory approvals.
Monitor and report on performance of design teams and manage the Common Data Environment effectively.
Support commercial discussions related to design change management and contract negotiations.
Digital and BIM Management:
Lead the development and implementation of BIM Execution Plans and digital workflows.
Ensure full collaboration across 3D federated models and that clash detection processes are managed and resolved.
Design Compliance & Safety Leadership:
Undertake the role of Building Regulations Principal Designer (BRPD) on Design and Build projects.
Monitor and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and safety standards.
Complete the Clients Construction Competency Framework regularly and maintain required BRPD qualifications.
Qualifications & Experience
HNC/HND/Degree in Construction, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
Professional membership preferred (e.g., CIOB, ICE, CIHT).
Demonstrated leadership in design management across complex construction projects.
Strong experience in both pre-construction and project delivery environments.
Proven ability to manage and influence multi-disciplinary teams and stakeholders.
Attributes & Skills
Self-motivated and results-driven with a proactive, solutions-focused approach.
Strong understanding of the construction industry, including design and build procurement.
Exceptional negotiation, communication, and influencing skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with senior management and project teams.
Adept at managing change, mitigating risk, and driving continuous improvement.