_{07th September, 2026}

Design Manager
Paddock Wood, Kent | £80,000 per annum + package | Permanent
 
We're working with a well-established and highly regarded construction contractor who is looking to appoint an experienced Design Manager to join their team in Paddock Wood.
 
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Design Manager who is looking for a role where they can take full ownership of the design function on their own projects, working closely with the wider project team to drive successful delivery from pre-construction through to completion.
 
The company has an established reputation for delivering high-quality projects and maintaining strong relationships with clients and professional teams. With a strong pipeline of work, this is an exciting opportunity to join a business where you'll have genuine responsibility, autonomy and the opportunity to make a visible impact.
 
The Role
As Design Manager, you will take full responsibility for the design management of allocated projects, leading the design process from pre-construction through to completion.

You'll work collaboratively with project, commercial and site teams, as well as architects, engineers, consultants and specialist subcontractors, ensuring that design information is coordinated, compliant, buildable and delivered in line with the construction programme.
 
This is a role suited to someone who is confident working independently, can take ownership of their projects and is comfortable identifying and resolving issues before they impact cost, programme or delivery.
 
Key Responsibilities

• Taking full responsibility for the design management of allocated projects.
• Managing the design process from pre-construction through to completion.
• Developing and managing design programmes and information release schedules.
• Coordinating architects, engineers, specialist subcontractors and external consultants.
• Reviewing drawings, specifications and technical information to identify design issues and buildability concerns.
• Chairing design team meetings and ensuring actions are progressed and closed out.
• Managing RFIs, design changes and technical queries throughout the project lifecycle.
• Ensuring design information is delivered in accordance with the construction programme.
• Working closely with site and commercial teams to identify and resolve design-related risks.
• Monitoring consultant and subcontractor design performance and ensuring deliverables are achieved.
• Ensuring designs comply with contractual, statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Supporting procurement by ensuring design packages are sufficiently developed, coordinated and ready for procurement.
• Identifying opportunities for value engineering and improved buildability.
• Proactively identifying design risks, constraints and coordination issues and driving practical solutions.
• Maintaining accurate design records and documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Supporting the wider project team with technical and design-related queries through to completion.
• Contributing to continuous improvement and best practice within the design management function.

About You
We're looking for an experienced Design Manager with a proven track record within the construction industry and, importantly, experience of independently managing the design function on your own projects.
 
You'll ideally bring:

• Proven experience working as a Design Manager within the construction industry.
• A strong track record of independently managing the design function on your own projects.
• Experience working for a main contractor, which would be highly advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of the construction process from pre-construction through to completion.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary design teams, consultants and specialist subcontractors.
• Strong understanding of design programmes, technical information and construction sequencing.
• The ability to identify and resolve design, buildability and coordination issues.
• Good knowledge of relevant Building Regulations and construction standards.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills.
• Strong organisation and the ability to manage multiple design priorities.
• A proactive, solutions-focused approach with the confidence to challenge where required.
• A relevant construction, architectural, engineering or design qualification would be advantageous.

You'll be someone who can operate with a high degree of autonomy while working collaboratively with the wider project team. You'll understand the importance of getting design right early, communicating effectively and ensuring that technical issues are resolved before they become construction problems.
 
What's on Offer?

• £80,000 per annum
• Competitive benefits package
• Permanent position
• Paddock Wood, Kent
• Opportunity to take ownership of your own projects
• A strong pipeline of work
• Opportunity to work closely with experienced project and construction professionals
• Genuine career development and progression opportunities
• A collaborative environment where your experience and expertise will be valued

The Opportunity
If you're an experienced Design Manager who enjoys having ownership, responsibility and influence over your projects, this could be an excellent next step.
 
You'll have the opportunity to manage the design function from the outset, work alongside a strong delivery team and play a key role in ensuring projects are delivered safely, efficiently and to a high standard.
 
If you're interested in finding out more, apply today for a confidential conversation. We can provide further information on the business, project portfolio and wider package during the recruitment process.

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