76 Design Manager jobs in Greater London

Experienced and Talented Design Manager required with experience of residential internal finishes.

We are working alongside a successful London based building main contractor, with a turnover last year of 175m and expected turnover this year of 200m+. Our client's business model is extremely well managed, with a reputation for producing a quality project on time and budget, which results in a large amount of repeat business. They have a 20m change of use project in the Victoria of Central London. An existing commercial building, the project will involve the internal strip out, structural alternations and the internal fit out to form an attractive residential apartment development. We are currently sourcing an experienced Design Manager with ideally relevant experience.

Key Accountabilities for the Design Manager include:

• Working with the Project Manager to provide a design management service.
• The Design Manager will implement the agreed design management strategy on the project.
• Assessing design risk and managing it's mitigation.
• Producing the project specific designer agreements.
• Producing agree and managing a realistic design programme and information required schedule.
• Managing the design on site with, where appropriate, the assistance of other site based resource.
• The Design Manager will ensure that all design deliverables are reviewed to establish they are within budget. Where nominated controlling design, change process management, organising and chairing regular design team meetings.

The Design Manger will have experience and understanding:

• Strong knowledge of construction materials, methods and technology
• Strong knowledge of planning techniques, procurement and value creation
• Good knowledge of contracts and contract documentation
• Good knowledge of health, safety, and environment legislation and issues
• Knowledge of life cycle costs
• Risk management skills
• HNC / HND Architecture or Construction Technology

Job Title: Design Manager
Location: London
Type: Permanent
Salary: Up to 70,000 + Package

We have partnered with a growing main contractor with a strong reputation for delivering commercial, fit-out, refurbishment and residential projects across London. With a turnover of over 130M and a healthy pipeline of work, they're looking to bring in a Design Manager to join their expanding team.

This is a great opportunity for someone who's looking to take ownership of their own projects, work across the full project lifecycle, and continue to grow within a supportive and well-established business.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the full design process on your own projects, from tender through to completion
• Coordinate with consultants, subcontractors and internal teams to ensure design intent is delivered
• Oversee the preparation of design documentation, technical submittals and approvals
• Input into the pre-construction process and support on bids and tenders
• Attend design and coordination meetings, resolving technical queries as they arise
• Work closely with site and delivery teams to manage design risk and resolve issues on site
• Maintain programme alignment, reporting on design progress and potential risks
• Liaise with clients and design stakeholders to manage expectations and ensure successful delivery

What We're Looking For:

• Previous experience working as a Design Manager with a main contractor
• Comfortable managing the full design lifecycle independently
• Exposure to a range of sectors - commercial, residential, refurbishment or fit-out - would be desirable
• Strong communication skills and ability to build relationships with key stakeholders
• A proactive mindset with a willingness to learn and take on responsibility
• Someone keen to build a long-term career and develop within a growing business

What's On Offer:

• Salary up to 70,000 (depending on experience)
• Clear path in terms of career progression
• A business with a diverse project portfolio and strong reputation in the market
• Full benefits package
• The chance to take ownership of your own projects and grow with the business

Apply now to be considered for this role. To discuss further, please reach out to Vekshana.

Aldwych Consulting values diversity and promotes equality. No terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010. We encourage and welcome applications from all sections of society and are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments and/or additional arrangements as required to support your application.

Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

For the purposes of the Conduct Regulations 2003, when advertising permanent vacancies we are acting as an Employment Agency, and when advertising temporary/contract vacancies we are acting as an Employment Business.

Talented Design Manager required

We are currently looking for a talented Design Managers for a rapidly expanding main contractor with a brimming order book. The Design Manager will be responsible for the management of design on a prime residential project in the Mayfair area of London. The project is valued circa £40m and involves the the fit out of 2 town houses.  

 The Design Manager's key accountabilities will include:

• Working with the Project  Manager to provide a design management service for the project.
li>Implementing the agreed design management strategy on the project.
• Assessing design risk and managing it's mitigation.
• Producing the project specific designer agreements.
• Producing agree and managing a realistic design programme and information required schedule.
• Managing the design on site with, where appropriate, the assistance of other site based resource.
• The Design Manager will ensure that all design deliverables are reviewed to establish they are within budget, are fully coordinated and are buildable.
li>Where nominated controlling design, change process management, organising and chairing regular design team meetings.

The Design Manager will have a strong understanding of the below:

• Strong knowledge of construction materials, methods and technology
• Strong knowledge of planning techniques, procurement and value creation
• Good knowledge of contracts and contract documentation
• Good knowledge of health, safety, and environment legislation and issues
• Knowledge of life cycle costs
• Risk management skills
• HNC / HND Architecture or Construction Technology

Vacancy Summary

Job Title: Design Manager

Job Type: Permanent

Job Ref: #1109

Location: Hertfordshire

Start Date: ASAP

Salary : c65k-75k basic plus competitive package with car or allowance, health, bonus, pension etc.

Company & Project: A highly regarded main contractor operating in the Education, Commercial, Mixed-Use and Science sectors, are seeking to recruit a Design Manager to join their business. Project include Design and Build projects valued c20m-50m across multiple sectors including Leisure, Healthcare, Science and Education.

Duties & Responsibilities: The successful candidate will take responsibility for technical compliance and design management predominantly at early feasibility and procurement stages, but also with involvement monitoring the on-site Design coordination and managing external consultants.

A process driven individual, with practical construction knowledge, and a keen eye for detail is an essential skillset for this role.

Desirable Experience:

• Experience as a Design Manager from early planning stages through to project completion.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience working for a Main Contractor.
• Knowledge of Construction methodology and Design & Build contracts would be advantageous.
• Previous Roles: Technical Manager OR Assistant Design Manager OR Design Manager OR Design Co-ordinator OR Assistant Design & Build Manager.

Qualifications & Skills: HNC or Degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or Architecture.

Application Process: If you would like more information on this Design Manager position or any other vacancy please email your current CV through where it will be reviewed and you will be contacted within 48 hours if your CV is of interest.

Services advertised by Apple Technical Recruitment are that of an Employment Agency/Business.

Willmott Dixon are currently recruiting for a Design Manager to work on exciting new projects with our London & East construction business. With offices in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, and Chelmsford (Essex), we deliver projects across multiple sectors within north London, the northern home counties and East Anglia. This will be a hybrid role which will require a presence in our Hitchin office 3 days per week.

As a Design Manager you will be responsible for the development and control of a design on one or more projects. You will identify where we can add extra value for our customers whilst ensuring buildability and quality that meet statutory requirements.

The Design Manager will collaborate with project stakeholders, including architects, engineers, contractors, and customers, to establish project requirements, objectives, and design criteria. You will also share your experience by guiding, mentoring and imparting knowledge to other team members.

Some of the duties / responsibilities will include:

* Manage the design phase of construction projects from concept development to construction documentation, ensuring compliance with project objectives, codes, regulations, and standards, for example, fire, planning and building control, among others.

* Select and contribute to the appointment of design partners, ensuring design responsibilities are correctly apportioned between them and the supply chain partners delivering the Contractor's Design Portion.

* Participate in the selection and procurement of design solutions including modern methods of construction (MMC), materials, finishes, sustainable technology, ensuring they align with project specifications, budgets, and timelines with the wider project team.

* Arrange and prepare for design reviews to assess progress, to identify potential risks or deviations, and implement corrective measures as necessary.

* Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other design professionals to develop comprehensive design plans, drawings, and specifications and work with the design manager to ensure that they accurately represent project requirements.

* Coordinate and manage external design consultants, reviewing and providing feedback on their work to ensure design integrity, consistency and quality.

Essential / desirable criteria Essential

* Working knowledge of the wider construction industry, its challenges and future direction.

* Strong communication and negotiation skills.

* Technical knowledge of construction design principles, practices, and systems, including architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical disciplines.

* Ability to work within a team environment.

* Able to use Microsoft suite of office programmes including Excel, Word, Outlook and Microsoft Project, Bluebeam, use appropriate software to review 3D models.

Desirable

* Working towards CIOB or another related professional membership.

* Construction related degree.

* Valid driving licence.

* Appropriate CSCS card.

Personal Qualities

Some of the key attributes you have will include:

* Adaptable when dealing with people and managing relationships.

* Seeing the bigger picture and planning ahead.

* Working as part of a team.

* A good forward planner and excellent motivator.

* Able to identify and manage risk and opportunity.

* Constantly reinforce our customer first ethic.

* Provide cost effective and innovative technical solutions.

* A key decision-maker.

* Willingness to continually develop personal and technical effectiveness.

Additional Information

Willmott Dixon embraces diversity in the workplace and will consider flexible and agile working. We are a disability confident employer.

Benefits: In return we reward our people generously with a competitive package that gives you flexible benefits to fit your lifestyle and priorities. This includes but is not limited to, an enhanced pension scheme, full / heavily discounted private medical, life assurance, incentive bonus and a car scheme which will make us a market leader in sustainable company travel. Applicable roles will benefit from a motoring expenditure allowance (MEA) and everyone can access a new generation of low carbon and electric cars via the Willmott Dixon run car leasing scheme.

About Us

With 170 years of rich history, Willmott Dixon's purpose beyond profit is to deliver brilliant buildings, transform lives, strengthen communities, and enhance the environment so our world is fit for future generations. Ensuring that we add lasting value to the neighbourhoods we work in; our values, people, innovation, partnerships and focus on sustainability has allowed us to build a successful and trusted privately owned business where our people can thrive.

Construction is changing and we are at the forefront of that change. Pioneering new ways to build, innovating the way construction is viewed and establishing ourselves as one of the top employers in any industry. It truly is an amazing company in one of the most exciting industries with a vast array of professional career paths.

Willmott Dixon was awarded No 1 in the Best "Big" Companies (2022) to work for and already holds the Times Top 50 Employers for Women 2022 and is the first major contractor and developer to win a King's Award for Enterprise in the category of sustainable development.

We are working with a leading main contractor who are looking to appoint an experienced Design Manager to support them on a growing portfolio of remediation and recladding schemes . This is a freelance role working across pre-construction, tender and bid support , and live project stages - with a key focus on managing the external design process from planning through to delivery.

This role is office-based and ideal for someone who understands the technical, legislative and risk elements of faade remediation and cladding replacement - particularly on occupied residential or mixed-use developments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the design process from bid stage through to construction, with a strong focus on remediation and recladding works
• Appoint and manage external consultants , ensuring coordination of architectural, structural, and fire safety inputs
• Lead on design deliverables and ensure alignment with client requirements, programme deadlines, and budget constraints
• Take ownership of Planning Applications and Building Regulation submissions , ensuring all documentation is complete and compliant
• Oversee and manage the production and execution of Collateral Warranties , liaising with legal and client-side teams as required
• Work collaboratively with bid, commercial and delivery teams during tender stages
• Chair design team meetings and ensure clear communication across all stakeholders
• Identify and manage design risks, particularly around compliance, materials, fire safety, and sequencing

• Proven experience as a Design Manager (or similar role) working for a main contractor
• Strong knowledge of remediation and recladding projects - ideally within the residential or high-rise sector
• Demonstrated experience in appointing consultants , managing warranties, and overseeing statutory applications
• Good understanding of current Building Regulations , fire safety standards, and planning policies
• Ability to lead the design process from pre-con to delivery
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work autonomously in a fast-paced environment

• Freelance role with ongoing, long-term opportunities.
• Work on high-profile fire remediation projects across London.
• Competitive day rate - paying up to 400/day
• Opportunity to work with a reputable contractor in the residential sector.

If this sounds like the right role for you, apply now to discuss further!

Aldwych Consulting values diversity and promotes equality. No terminology in this advert is intended to discriminate against any of the protected characteristics that fall under the Equality Act 2010. We encourage and welcome applications from all sections of society and are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments and/or additional arrangements as required to support your application.

Candidates must be eligible to live and work in the UK.

For the purposes of the Conduct Regulations 2003, when advertising permanent vacancies we are acting as an Employment Agency, and when advertising temporary/contract vacancies we are acting as an Employment Business.

The Role:

An exciting opportunity has become available for an experienced Design Manager to join a high-performing infrastructure project team. This position plays a key role in delivering technically compliant, high-quality engineering solutions across a range of water infrastructure works—including clean water, wastewater, sewers, pumping stations, and associated networks.

You will oversee both internal engineering teams and external design consultants, ensuring that all design solutions align with client needs, regulatory standards, and project timelines. Additionally, you will be responsible for managing budgets and contributing to project success from concept through to completion.

Key Responsibilities:

• p>Lead the design process across multi-disciplinary teams, ensuring timely and efficient delivery.

• Ensure all designs meet technical, statutory, and client-specific standards.

• Manage consultant and supplier relationships, fostering collaboration and performance.

• Coordinate design inputs to support tendering, planning, and delivery stages.

• Control design changes, track budgets, and maintain clear reporting lines.

• Champion best practice in safety, quality, and compliance across all design outputs.

Essential Requirements:

• At least 10 years’ experience in design and management within water infrastructure projects.

  /li>

• In-depth understanding of drainage systems, potable water mains, and temporary works.

• Civil Engineering qualification (Degree/HNC or equivalent).

• Chartered Engineer status (or working towards) with a recognized engineering institution.

• Proficient in BIM processes and common data environments.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and project coordination skills.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary with annual performance reviews

• Company pension scheme and life assurance

• Private healthcare coverage

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays and loyalty days

• Flexible working arrangements

• Company car or car allowance scheme

• Professional leadership and development training

• Wellbeing support via an Employee Assistance Programme

Salary will be based on experience. Full benefits package to be discussed.

Design Manager - Water & Infrastructure | Hertfordshire
I'm working with a major civil engineering contractor delivering high-profile infrastructure works across water, energy, and environmental sectors. Due to a strong secured pipeline, they're now looking to appoint a Design Manager to join their team in Hertfordshire, overseeing key AMP8 water projects.
This role will suit someone who thrives on driving technical excellence, managing multi-disciplinary design teams, and working closely with project delivery teams to provide robust, buildable solutions.

What you'll be doing:

• Leading internal and external design teams through concept, detailed, and technical design stages.
• Managing engineering input across a range of clean and wastewater projects-treatment plants, trunk mains, pumping stations, and network upgrades.
• Ensuring designs meet technical, regulatory, and operational standards.
• Supporting project teams by coordinating design interfaces and resolving site-based engineering queries.
• Driving technical compliance, risk mitigation, and design quality throughout the lifecycle of each scheme.

What we're looking for:

• Strong civil engineering background with 10+ years' experience in design and design management.
• Proven ability to lead design on complex water or infrastructure projects.
• Knowledge of potable and foul water networks, drainage, temporary works, and BIM processes.
• HNC/Degree-qualified and ideally working toward or already holding Chartered or Incorporated Engineer status.
• Strong stakeholder engagement skills and commercial awareness of delivering against programme and budget.

What's on offer:

• Salary up to 80,000 depending on experience.
• Full package including car or allowance, private medical, enhanced pension, life assurance, and more.
• Long-term framework work, career progression, and a real emphasis on internal development.
• Flexible working arrangements and a supportive culture with a strong engineering pedigree.

If you're a driven Design Manager looking for your next challenge in the infrastructure sector, I'd be happy to have a confidential chat.

Are you an experienced Design Manager with a passion for residential construction? A leading housing contractor in London is seeking a skilled professional to oversee an high-rise RC frame apartment scheme in North London.

The successful candidate will have the autonomy to manage the project, making critical decisions and driving the team towards excellence.

Key Benefits:
- Career Progression: Join a renowned contractor with a track record of promoting from within. This is an ideal environment for an ambitious Design Manager looking to advance their career.
- Leadership Role: Take full ownership of projects, from planning through to delivery. Your expertise will be pivotal in shaping the success of each scheme.
- Diverse Projects: Engage with a variety of residential schemes, each presenting unique challenges and opportunities for innovation.
- Collaborative Environment: Work alongside a dedicated team of professionals who are committed to delivering high-quality housing solutions.

Essential Skills and Experience:
- Proven Track Record: Demonstrated experience in managing residential schemes from start to finish, particularly high-rise RC frame buildings.
- Project Management: Strong ability to oversee project timelines and budgets, ensuring all milestones are met.
- Leadership: Experience in leading and motivating a team, with a focus on achieving project goals.
- Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of design management within the residential construction sector.
- Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills, capable of liaising effectively with clients, contractors, and team members.

This role is perfect for a Design Manager who is ready to take on new challenges and make a significant impact within a leading housing contractor. If you are driven, experienced, and ready to lead, this position offers a platform to showcase your skills and advance your career in the dynamic field of residential construction.

For more information on this job opportunity, please contact Hannah Walker at Constructive Moves