Architect

Are you an Architect interested in moving into Design Management?
Hitchin, Hertfordshire
Main Contractor – Design & Build | Strong Site‑Delivery Focus
A respected regional Main Contractor based near Hitchin is seeking a Design Manager to strengthen their delivery team. This opportunity is ideal for an Architect looking to transition into Design Management, offering a clear route into a contractor‑side leadership role. The business delivers a balanced mix of education, healthcare and commercial schemes, split evenly between new‑build and refurbishment, typically valued between £5m and £15m. You will usually be involved in two to three live projects at once, working closely with site teams to keep design information flowing and resolve technical challenges quickly.
About the Company
This contractor is known for its technical strength, collaborative culture and long‑standing client relationships. They have a low staff turnover and have experienced steady, sustainable growth across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and surrounding counties. Their portfolio includes education, healthcare, commercial and industrial buildings, residential schemes, community and public buildings, heritage and refurbishment projects, and public‑sector frameworks. With a strong pipeline and modern working environment, they offer long‑term career development and progression.
Role Overview – Design Manager (Site‑Focused)
This role is ideal for someone who enjoys being embedded in live projects, supporting site teams and ensuring design information is coordinated, buildable and delivered on time. You will work across pre‑construction and delivery, with a strong emphasis on site‑based technical coordination and problem‑solving.
Key Responsibilities
You will lead and manage the design process on D&B projects, coordinating drawings and technical information between architects, engineers and specialist subcontractors. Regular site attendance is expected to help resolve design queries and technical issues. You will oversee buildability reviews and technical checks, track design deliverables against programme requirements, ensure timely approvals and maintain information flow to the site. Collaboration with pre‑construction, commercial and project teams is central to the role.
Working Pattern
The working week typically includes one day from home, one to two days in the office and two days on site. Standard hours are 8.30 am to 5.00 pm with a one‑hour lunch break.
Ideal Candidate
Are you an Architect looking to move into Design Management? This role is designed for you. You may currently be working as an Architect, Senior Architectural Designer or Senior Design Coordinator.
You will have a strong understanding of construction drawings, detailing and design processes, and be confident working with multiple stakeholders and managing deadlines.
You should enjoy being on-site and solving real‑time technical challenges.
Suitable backgrounds include architecture, structural engineering, consultancy, main contracting and D&B environments.
Salary & Benefits
The package includes a competitive salary, a £6,000 car allowance, fuel card and mileage, 25 days’ holiday plus Christmas shutdown, and additional holiday at 5, 7 and 10 years (up to 28 days). Benefits also include an enhanced pension, private medical cover, funded professional memberships and training, annual health checks and flu jabs, eye tests and glasses for screen users, an EV salary sacrifice scheme and regular pay reviews.
How to Apply
To apply for this Design Manager role, please contact Sally Whittingham or submit your application online.
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