Regional Design Manager

About the Company
Our client is a leading Tier 1 main contractor based in Berkshire that have a strong presence in the South of England, known for delivering complex and high-profile projects across defence, education, healthcare, mixed-use, residential, and public sectors. Due to continued growth in the London and South region, they are seeking a Regional Design Manager to oversee and coordinate design activities across multiple live and pre-construction projects.
Role Overview
The Regional Design Manager will be responsible for leading and managing the design process for projects across the London and Southern regions. This includes overseeing project-based Design Managers, engaging with clients, consultants, and internal teams to ensure the design meets client expectations, budget, and buildability standards. The role will involve strategic planning, risk management, and quality control from bid stage through to project completion.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead the regional design function across multiple live and pre-construction projects.
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Manage and support project Design Managers and Design Coordinators.
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Work closely with Pre-Construction and Delivery teams to ensure alignment between design, commercial, and construction strategies.
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Maintain regular contact with external design consultants, architects, and client teams.
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Ensure design deliverables are produced on time, within budget, and to the required quality.
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Identify design risks and implement mitigation strategies.
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Support bid and tender submissions, contributing to technical and quality elements.
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Promote design innovation, value engineering, and sustainable construction principles.
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Manage design review meetings, workshops, and interface with statutory bodies and planning authorities as required.
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Monitor and enforce compliance with Building Regulations, CDM, and other statutory requirements.
Requirements
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Proven experience in a similar Design Manager or Senior Design Manager role within a Tier 1 or Tier 2 contractor.
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Experience managing multiple concurrent projects or a regional portfolio.
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Strong knowledge of UK Building Regulations, construction methodology, and technical detailing.
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Excellent leadership and communication skills.
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Ability to lead design development from early stages (RIBA 1-4) through to delivery.
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Commercial awareness with a good understanding of cost, risk, and programme.
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Willingness to travel across London and Southern counties as required.
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Degree qualified in Architecture, Engineering, or a construction-related discipline