Design Manager | Auckland or Christchurch

About Apollo:

Apollo Projects is a nationwide design and build commercial construction company specialising in Food & Beverage, Sports and Aquatics and Cool/Cold storage facilities. Our reputation is built not only on the quality of our projects, but on how we work – collaboratively, practically and with respect for our clients, consultants, colleagues and the communities we operate in. At Apollo, strong relationships and smart thinking sit at the heart of everything we do.

Due to continued growth within our Preconstruction team, we are seeking a Design Manager to join our business. This role can be based in Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland) or Ōtautahi (Christchurch).

Why us:

We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where every member of our team feels respected, valued, and empowered to be their authentic selves. To support our team and their well-being, our benefits include:

• Competitive remuneration reflective of your skills and experience
• Southern Cross Health Insurance for you, with discounted cover for your immediate family
• Flexi-hours and the option to work from home one day per week (after 3 months).
• A collaborative national team embodying a strong cultural ethos.
• Ongoing training and development to support your professional growth.
• Regular staff events, including, family events, quiz nights, themed dress up days etc.
• Be part of a community-focused company that prioritises giving back and making a positive impact on society.
• Free company accommodation for personal use in selected areas of the country
• Free office car parking.

About the Role:

As a Design Manager, you will be an integral part of the Preconstruction team managing the design process, from early client engagement through to detailed design and consenting.

You will work closely with estimators, project managers, quantity surveyors, consultants and internal subject matter experts to ensure designs are practical, buildable, well-coordinated and aligned with client and commercial objectives. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working at the intersection of design, people and problem‑solving – influencing outcomes without direct authority and adding value through collaboration and constructive challenge.

Key responsibilities:

• Work with clients to develop and refine project brief
• Coordinate and manage consultants to deliver high quality and accurate design
• Review design drawings, identify risks and challenge solutions where required
• Drive and coordinate the tender process
• Coordinate and develop design & feasibility reports
• Negotiate and develop contracts – NZ3910, NZ3916
• Collaborate closely with construction teams to ensure alignment between design and delivery.

About You:

You are a proactive, organised and personable professional who enjoys working in a team environment and is confident engaging with a wide range of stakeholders.

In addition to this, you will have the following attributes:

• At least 3 years’ experience managing design delivery within commercial construction
• Strong understanding of building design in a Design & Build environment
• Working knowledge of MS Suite, including SharePoint
• Excellent relationship building skills (clients, consultants & key stakeholders)
• High level of accuracy & quality control
• Outstanding communication skills (both written and verbal) and the ability to adapt your style to different audiences
• Ability to foresee risks, find solutions and work collaboratively with subject matter experts
• Commercial awareness and an appreciation of scope, risk and value
• Great team player with a sense of humour, initiative, and drive

Experience in civil engineering or electrical design is preferred but not essential.

Click “Apply Now” to take the next step in your career. We will review candidates as they come in so send your application in quick and don’t miss out!

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:
Please note that Apollo Projects Limited does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Apollo will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, Apollo explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Apollo.