Freelance Design Manager

Freelance Design / Senior Design Manager – Education Project

Start Date: June 2026
Duration: Approx. 12 months
Location: Near Colchester, Essex (Project site)
Rate: £400–£600 per day
Contractor: Tier 1 Main Contractor

About the Role

We are seeking a highly experienced Freelance Design / Senior Design Manager to join a major £25 million commercial education project outside of Colchester. You will operate as a stand-alone Design Manager, reporting directly to the Regional Design Manager.

This is a fantastic opportunity to lead and coordinate design delivery on a high-profile project with a leading Tier 1 contractor.

Responsibilities

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Lead the design management process across all disciplines on the project.

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Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, and client teams to ensure timely and compliant design delivery.

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Ensure design risk is identified, managed, and mitigated throughout the project lifecycle.

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Chair design review meetings and maintain all project design documentation.

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Act as the single point of contact for design queries on-site.

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Support handover and close-out processes at project completion.

Requirements

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Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager on education projects.

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Strong knowledge of UK construction regulations and standards.

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Experience working within Tier 1 contracting environments.

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Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

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Ability to work independently and manage complex design packages.

Please apply below and get in touch with Heather Duncan for more information