Design Manager in Maidstone

Position: Design Manager

Office location: Maidstone, Kent

Salary/Package: £ competitive + package

Target start date: October/November 2026

The company:

A multi-disciplinary Tier 2 regional main contractor delivering new build and refurbishment schemes across a wide range of sectors of the construction industry (building, civil engineering and facilities management).

The Design Manager role:

You will be required to manage the design process to deliver technically compliant, cost-efficient and coordinated design packages, during both the pre-construction and project delivery stages.

Engage and manage the digital and sustainability requirements of the project.

Liaise with subcontractors, design team members and external consultants, creating a collaborative environment to deliver design information that meets all the relevant requirements and conforms to Building Regulations.

You will manage the design information release, production and approval of technical drawings, chair Client Engagement Meetings (CEM’s) and design workshops, coordinate complex design packages, and validate design details, adding value to the construction process.

Providing expert guidance and technical support, you will work closely with the client, Technical Advisors (TA’s) and project teams to identify and mitigate risks, as well as ensure compliance with all statutory, legal, and planning requirements.

Demonstrate level of technical competence across Arch, Structures and MEPH

Assisting with the selection and scope of suitable subcontractors for Contractor Design Portions and working drawings.

Ensure the design programme is developed and managed with all parties to inform the TIDP and MIDP.

Regular reporting both internally and externally.

About you and the skills you possess:

Design Manager experience and working knowledge of frameworks.

A collaborative approach that can gel with site operations teams as you will be an intrinsic part of the project teams.

Able to engage and motivate and with confidence to make decisions when required.

An understanding of both the design and construction processes within the education and healthcare sectors, and the interface between their representatives them with an understanding of Revit and AutoCAD and BIM Level 2 requirements.

Driver of improvements and benefits through digital construction.

Excellent communication skills.

Confident in reviewing designs for technical completeness and buildability

Develop Consultant scopes of service and the Design Responsibility Matrix, Develop VE proposals with wider team, Lead design programme.

An understanding of EDMS.

Why apply for this role:

This is a rare opportunity to join a great business that delivers projects across the Southern Home Counties. For undertaking this role you will receive:

A competitive salary and package

Working for one of Kent's high performing construction companies that has a great culture.

Ongoing professional development

The chance to work within a business where you can make an impact and your talents can be demonstrated