Design Manager in South West

Design Manager

Overview

An established main contractor is seeking an experienced Design Manager to support the delivery of a varied portfolio of construction projects across the South Coast and South West region.

This role will be responsible for managing and coordinating the design process from pre-construction through to project completion, ensuring designs are fully developed, compliant, and aligned with programme and client requirements.

Projects are primarily within the healthcare and education sectors, including hospitals, schools, and other public-sector facilities.

This is a contract opportunity expected to run for approximately 6 months, with the potential for extension subject to project requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and coordinate the design process throughout the project lifecycle.
Lead design team meetings and drive design deliverables in line with project programmes.
Liaise with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal project teams.
Review design information to ensure compliance with project requirements, regulations, and buildability considerations.
Identify and manage design risks, opportunities, and change control processes.
Ensure timely production, review, and approval of design documentation.
Support project delivery teams during construction and fit-out phases.
Maintain effective stakeholder relationships throughout project delivery.

Requirements

Proven experience working as a Design Manager within the construction industry.
Previous experience working for a Tier 1 main contractor.
Strong understanding of construction methodologies and design management processes.
Experience delivering projects within healthcare, education, or other public-sector environments is highly desirable.
Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams.
Strong communication, organisation, and problem-solving skills.

Location

Predominantly South Coast-based projects.
Majority of work located in and around Southampton.
Occasional travel across the wider South West region may be required.

Contract Details

Design Manager
Approx. 6-month contract
£550 per day CIS
Healthcare and education projects
Predominantly Southampton-based
Tier 1 contractor experience essential
Immediate/start ASAP opportunityIf you are an experienced Design Manager with a Tier 1 background and experience delivering complex healthcare or education projects, we would be interested in hearing from you.

Guidant, Carbon60, Lorien & SRG - The Vertage Group Portfolio are acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy