Design Manager

Location: Farringdon

My client is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead and coordinate all design-related activities on a high-profile £78m refurbishment and new build project in Central London.

This is a key role within the project delivery team, responsible for managing the design process from pre-construction through to completion, ensuring buildable, compliant, and cost-effective solutions aligned with programme requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Design Management & Coordination

Lead the design process across all project stages, from concept through to construction and handover

Manage and coordinate consultant teams (architectural, structural, MEP, specialist designers)

Ensure design information is issued in line with the project programme and procurement schedule

Review and challenge design proposals to ensure buildability, efficiency, and value engineering opportunities

Chair design team meetings and drive actions to maintain project momentum

Project Delivery

Work closely with Project Managers, Commercial teams, and Site teams to align design with construction requirements

Ensure design outputs meet client requirements, statutory regulations, and quality standards

Manage RFIs, design queries, and technical submissions during construction

Oversee design change control processes and assess impact on cost and programme

Planning & Programme

Develop and maintain the design programme in line with the overall construction schedule

Identify potential design risks and implement mitigation strategies

Ensure timely resolution of design issues to avoid programme delays

Stakeholder Management

Act as the primary interface between client, consultants, and internal delivery teams

Support client presentations and design reviews

Liaise with statutory authorities, planning bodies, and third-party stakeholders where required

Compliance & Quality

Ensure compliance with UK Building Regulations, planning conditions, and relevant standards

Monitor quality of design documentation and technical deliverables

Support BIM coordination and digital design processes (where applicable)

Candidate Requirements

Experience & Qualifications

Proven experience as a Design Manager on large-scale construction projects (£50m+)

Experience delivering refurbishment and new build schemes in Central London or similar urban environments

Background with a main contractor, developer, or consultancy

Degree-qualified in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related discipline

Technical Skills

Strong understanding of construction methodologies and sequencing

Experience managing multi-disciplinary design teams

Knowledge of UK planning policies, Building Regulations, and CDM requirements

Familiarity with BIM processes and digital coordination tools (e.g., Revit, Navisworks)

Key Competencies

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability

Commercial awareness and understanding of cost implications of design decisions

Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-value project environment

What’s on Offer

Opportunity to work on a flagship £78m Central London scheme

Long-term permanent role with career progression opportunities

Competitive salary and benefits package

Collaborative and forward-thinking project environment