CDM Principal Designer

CDM Principal Designer

Manchester | Nationwide Architectural Practice | Projects up to £100m

A well-established nationwide Architectural Practice, based in Manchester, is looking to appoint a CDM Principal Designer from an architectural background to lead on design risk management across a diverse portfolio of UK projects.

This role is ideally suited to a qualified Architect who has gained experience acting as CDM Principal Designer and is now looking to step fully into a dedicated CDM Principal Designer position. The practice delivers projects across all sectors, including commercial, healthcare, residential and mixed-use schemes, with project values reaching £100m.

They are seeking an Architect who understands how to design out risk at concept stage and can confidently guide design teams through their CDM responsibilities.

The Role

The successful CDM Principal Designer will take ownership of managing and reducing design risk across multiple projects nationwide.

You will work closely with in-house architects and external consultants to identify hazards early and ensure risks are eliminated or reduced through intelligent design decisions.

The CDM Principal Designer will lead design risk workshops, provide clear regulatory advice and ensure compliant coordination through to Principal Contractor appointment.

This is a key role within the Manchester office, offering visibility and the opportunity to strengthen internal design risk management processes.

The Person

Qualified Architect with practical experience acting as CDM Principal Designer

Strong understanding of design risk management principles

Confident advising and challenging design teams

Good working knowledge of current CDM regulations

NEBOSH Construction Certificate or willingness to obtain

This role will suit an Architect who enjoys the technical and compliance side of projects and wants to specialise further in design risk leadership.

In Return?

Salary negotiable depending on experience

Car allowance

Performance-related bonus

Pension scheme

Hybrid and flexible working

Clear progression within a nationwide practice

This is an excellent opportunity for an Architect ready to transition into a full CDM Principal Designer role, focusing on proactive design risk management within a respected national practice.

If you are a CDM Principal Designer and are considering your career options currently, please contact Bex Ellinger at Brandon James on (phone number removed)