Design Manager

About the Company

Our client is an award-winning, family‑owned construction and property services company established in 1892. Headquartered in Swindon, England, the company operates across central southern England, delivering design and build, new‑build, restoration, refurbishment and maintenance projects across sectors including education, healthcare, commercial, residential, arts and culture and sports and leisure.

• Managed and coordinated the design process from pre‑construction through to project completion, ensuring compliance with client requirements, programme and budget.
• Led multidisciplinary design teams, including architects, structural engineers, MEP consultants and specialist subcontractors.
• Reviewed design information for quality, buildability, compliance and coordination prior to construction.
• Identified and mitigated design risks, resolving technical issues to minimise programme delays and cost impacts.
• Collaborated closely with project managers, commercial teams and site teams to ensure seamless delivery of projects.
• Chaired design team meetings and maintained design programmes to achieve key project milestones.
• Ensured compliance with Building Regulations, planning conditions and relevant industry standards.
• Managed the production, review and approval of design documentation using BIM and digital collaboration platforms.
• Coordinated value engineering initiatives to improve buildability, sustainability and cost efficiency without compromising quality.
• Liaised with clients and stakeholders throughout the project life‑cycle, providing technical advice and design updates.
• Supported pre‑construction activities, including tender reviews, design development and contractor proposals.
• Promoted sustainable design solutions and best practice in line with Beard Construction's commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
• Monitored consultant performance and managed design deliverables to meet contractual obligations.
• Ensured effective communication between all project stakeholders, fostering collaborative working relationships.
• Contributed to successful project delivery across sectors including education, healthcare, commercial, residential, heritage and public sector developments.

• Proven experience as a Design Manager within the construction industry, preferably with a main contractor.
• Strong understanding of the design process across all RIBA stages, from pre‑construction to project completion.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary design teams, consultants and specialist subcontractors.
• Comprehensive knowledge of UK Building Regulations, planning requirements, CDM Regulations and construction standards.
• Excellent technical understanding of construction methods, materials and building systems.
• Ability to identify design risks and develop practical, cost‑effective solutions.
• Strong organisational and programme management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, building positive relationships with clients, consultants and project teams.
• Experience using BIM processes and common digital design management platforms.
• Commercial awareness with an understanding of buildability, value engineering and project budgets.
• A collaborative and proactive approach, with the ability to lead and influence multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong problem‑solving and decision‑making skills under changing project demands.
• Commitment to delivering high‑quality, sustainable construction solutions.
• Relevant construction qualification in architecture, engineering, construction management or a related discipline.

• Up to 60,000 – 90,000 per annum
• Competitive benefits package
• Opportunity to work on high‑profile, high‑value projects
• 27 days (+BHs) annual leave, Car Leasing scheme via salary sacrifice, Death in Service (4x), Cycle to Work, Cash Plan (claim back), Pension 3% Ee / 5% Er

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