Design Manager – Care Home Construction
Job Title: Design Manager
Location: Corby (office-based) with travel to sites across the South of England (particularly Surrey, Woking, and the M25 corridor)
Sector: Care Facilities / Construction
Reports to: Project Director
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead the design coordination and management process across multiple care facility projects. Based from our Corby office, the role will involve regular travel to sites in the South of England to ensure design compliance, buildability, and coordination between design and construction teams.
The ideal candidate will have strong technical knowledge, excellent communication skills, and proven experience managing the design process from pre-construction through delivery within the healthcare or care home sector.
Key Responsibilities
Office-Based (Corby)
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Manage and coordinate the design process from concept to completion, ensuring design intent aligns with client requirements, budgets, and programme.
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Lead design meetings with architects, consultants, and subcontractors.
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Review drawings and technical submissions for compliance, accuracy, and buildability.
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Work closely with estimators and planners during tender and pre-construction phases to assess design risks and opportunities.
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Ensure all design documentation meets regulatory and contractual requirements, including Building Regulations and CQC (Care Quality Commission) standards.
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Oversee the timely release of design information to support procurement and construction.
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Liaise with clients and stakeholders to manage design approvals and change control processes.
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Support value engineering and innovation to achieve cost and efficiency targets without compromising quality or functionality.
Site-Based (South England – primarily Surrey, Woking, M25 area)
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Attend site coordination and progress meetings to resolve design and technical issues in real time.
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Provide design clarification and ensure construction is in line with approved drawings and specifications.
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Coordinate between site teams, subcontractors, and design consultants to ensure smooth information flow.
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Identify and mitigate design-related risks during construction.
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Conduct on-site inspections to verify compliance with design intent and quality standards.
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Support commissioning and handover documentation, ensuring as-built drawings and O&M manuals are complete and accurate.
Requirements
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Proven experience as a Design Manager (or Senior Design Coordinator) within construction, ideally in care homes, healthcare, or residential sectors.
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Strong understanding of building design, M&E coordination, and construction sequencing.
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Proficient in reviewing and interpreting architectural, structural, and MEP drawings.
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Excellent organisational, communication, and leadership skills.
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Degree or HNC/HND in Construction Management, Architecture, or a related discipline.
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Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel regularly to sites across the South.
What We Offer
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Competitive salary and benefits package.
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Opportunity to work on high-quality care and residential projects across the South.
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Hybrid working pattern with flexibility between office and site.
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Supportive environment with scope for progression and professional development