Design Manager / Senior Design Manager

Position               Design Manager / Senior Design Manager

Location               Manchester (Hybrid)

Salary                    £65,000 - £80,000 (Plus Package)

Contract               Permanent, Full Time

The Opportunity

We are working with a leading Tier 1 main contractor with one of the North West’s strongest pipelines of long-term framework projects, typically ranging from £10m–£70m.

With a reputation for quality delivery, strong client relationships, and repeat business, they are now looking to appoint a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager to join their Manchester team.

The role supports schemes across the North West with most projects Manchester-based, helping to limit regional travel.

This is a key hire within a business known for its design-led approach, high staff retention, and collaborative culture.

The Role

You will take full responsibility for managing the design process across multiple projects, ensuring delivery is aligned with programme, budget, and quality expectations.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design process from tender through to project completion
• Manage consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams
• Drive design programmes and ensure key milestones are met
• Chair design meetings and manage stakeholder communication
• Review and challenge design information to ensure buildability
• Identify and mitigate design risks, driving effective solutions
• Support pre-construction, tenders, and value engineering

The Candidate

We are targeting high-calibre individuals with proven experience in a Tier 1 or similar environment.

You will either have experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor, or be a highly experienced Architectural Technologist with strong contractor-side exposure.

Also:

• Track record delivering projects in the £10m+ range
• Experience with framework or negotiated projects
• Strong technical, commercial, and stakeholder management skills
• Ability to lead multiple projects in a fast-paced environment

Why Apply?

• Join a financially secure, privately-owned Tier 1 contractor
• Long-term, secured framework work providing stability
• Strong regional team with low staff turnover
• Clear progression to Senior and Leadership roles
• Focus on quality over volume
• Flexible/hybrid working

Apply

Apply now or contact us directly for a confidential discussion — we are actively engaging with strong Design Manager talent across the North West.