Design Manager

Overview

An established main contractor is seeking an experienced Design Manager to support the delivery of a varied portfolio of construction projects across the South Coast and South West region.

This role will be responsible for managing and coordinating the design process from pre-construction through to project completion, ensuring designs are fully developed, compliant, and aligned with programme and client requirements.

Projects are primarily within the healthcare and education sectors, including hospitals, schools, and other public-sector facilities.

This is a contract opportunity expected to run for approximately 6 months, with the potential for extension subject to project requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate the design process throughout the project lifecycle.
• Lead design team meetings and drive design deliverables in line with project programmes.
• Liaise with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal project teams.
• Review design information to ensure compliance with project requirements, regulations, and buildability considerations.
• Identify and manage design risks, opportunities, and change control processes.
• Ensure timely production, review, and approval of design documentation.
• Support project delivery teams during construction and fit-out phases.
• Maintain effective stakeholder relationships throughout project delivery.

Requirements

• Proven experience working as a Design Manager within the construction industry.
• Previous experience working for a Tier 1 main contractor.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies and design management processes.
• Experience delivering projects within healthcare, education, or other public-sector environments is highly desirable.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams.
• Strong communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills.

Location

• Predominantly South Coast-based projects.
• Majority of work located in and around Southampton.
• Occasional travel across the wider South West region may be required.

Contract Details

• Design Manager
• Approx. 6-month contract
• £550 per day CIS
• Healthcare and education projects
• Predominantly Southampton-based
• Tier 1 contractor experience essential
• Immediate/start ASAP opportunity

If you are an experienced Design Manager with a Tier 1 background and experience delivering complex healthcare or education projects, we would be interested in hearing from you.