Design Manager

Design Manager Job Title: Design Manager Location: Kent Employer: Tier 2 Principal Contractor Sector: Industrial & Commercial Construction Salary: £70,000 - £75,000 per annum (depending on experience) + benefits Role Overview: We are recruiting an experienced Design Manager to join a well-established Tier 2 principal contractor working on industrial and commercial projects across London and Kent. The successful candidate will manage the design process from pre-construction through to project delivery, ensuring that all designs align with client expectations, budgets, and timelines. Key Responsibilities: * Design Coordination: Manage and coordinate design teams (including architects, engineers, and consultants), ensuring that design outputs meet the project brief and construction programme. * Stakeholder Liaison: Serve as the main point of contact between clients, subcontractors, and the internal team to maintain clear communication and resolve design-related issues swiftly. * Programme Management: Develop and oversee the design schedule, ensuring timely delivery of all design packages in line with key construction milestones. * Technical Compliance: Ensure that designs comply with relevant building regulations, CDM (Construction Design and Management) Regulations, and planning requirements. * Risk Management: Identify design risks and implement mitigation strategies early in the process. * Value Engineering: Assist with design optimisation, driving cost-effective solutions while maintaining quality standards. * Document Control: Manage design documentation and ensure the smooth flow of accurate information between all stakeholders. * Support Construction Teams: Collaborate closely with pre-construction and site teams to ensure seamless transition from design to build phases. Projects Include: * Industrial: Warehousing, logistics hubs, and manufacturing plants. * Commercial: Offices, retail units, and mixed-use developments. Person Specification: * Education: Degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. * Experience: Minimum 5 years' experience in a Design Manager or Design Coordinator role, ideally within industrial and commercial construction. * Software Skills: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM tools. * Knowledge: Strong understanding of UK building regulations and CDM compliance. * Skills: Exceptional leadership, organisational, and communication skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and engage multiple stakeholders. * Desirable: Experience working with Tier 2 contractors and involvement in value engineering initiatives. Benefits: * Competitive salary (£70k - £75k) * Car allowance or travel expenses * Pension scheme * Private healthcare * Clear opportunities for career progression