Design Manager

Role Overview :
We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead and coordinate the full design process for a £50m reinforced concrete frame student accommodation development. The successful candidate will manage multidisciplinary design teams from pre-construction through to project completion, ensuring design excellence, compliance, cost control, and programme alignment.

Key Responsibilities:

* Manage and coordinate the architectural, structural, and MEP design teams throughout all RIBA stages.

* Oversee the design of the RC frame structure, ensuring technical compliance, buildability, and value engineering opportunities.

* Lead design team meetings and maintain clear communication between consultants, contractors, and stakeholders.

* Review and manage design deliverables to ensure alignment with programme, budget, and quality standards.

* Identify and mitigate design risks, ensuring compliance with planning conditions, building regulations, and statutory approvals.

* Collaborate closely with commercial and construction teams to ensure cost-effective and practical design solutions.

* Manage change control processes and ensure accurate documentation throughout the project lifecycle.

Key Requirements:

* Proven experience as a Design Manager on large-scale (£30m+) residential or student accommodation schemes.

* Strong understanding of reinforced concrete frame construction.

* Experience working within a main contractor or developer environment.

* Excellent coordination, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.

* Strong knowledge of UK Building Regulations and design standards.

Desirable:

* Degree-qualified in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management.

* Chartered status (RIBA, ICE, CIOB, or similar)