Design Manager Freelance

Freelance Design Manager – New Build College Projects (West London)

Location:

West London (site/project‑based)

Contract:

Freelance / Contract (CIS/Ltd)
Start: ASAP
Rate: £300 – £375 per day (Dependent on Experience)

You will support the design process to develop and deliver a design that meets all contractual requirements, using cost‑effective and buildable solutions. You’ll play a key role in coordination across design, procurement, and construction to ensure the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the client’s requirements.

• Liaison between the Client, Design Consultants, and project staff
• Liaison with the Site Manager for the development of design packages and procurement strategies

• Support the Design Manager in leading the design process across preconstruction and construction phases
• Assist with overseeing design consultants, ensuring compliance, buildability, and efficiency
• Support liaison between client, consultants, project teams, and site management
• Coordinate the preparation, review, and support sign‑off of all design documentation
• Ensure robust flow and control of design information, aligned to Document Management Procedures
• Support commercial and procurement teams in developing design packages and procurement strategies
• Represent the Client in meetings with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies
• Support design input relating to environmental certifications (e.g., BREEAM)
• Contribute to risk management and design quality reviews at key stages
• Support the facilitation of design handovers between preconstruction and site teams

• Relevant Construction or Architecture qualification
• Previous main contractor experience
• Strong understanding of the Design & Build process
• Excellent knowledge of design process through commercial and construction design stages
• Good working knowledge of the RIBA Plan of Work
• Strong in‑depth technical knowledge
• Good knowledge of the planning process
• Proven experience managing design across multiple project types (e.g., Residential, Schools, Hospitals, Student Accommodation)
• Working knowledge of Building Regulations

This is a great opportunity to step into a live, high‑value education project at an early stage and make a genuine impact—driving coordination, decision‑making, and design delivery through the next phases.