Design Manager - New Build Housing - Manchester
Design Manager - We are seeking a detail-oriented Design Manager to join a growing privately owned leading affordable housing developer. The Design Manager will ensure team projects are compliant with relevant specifications and statutory requirements, while providing technical support to both the construction and development teams.
Pre-Construction & Design – Responsibilities
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Prepare technical scopes of work for consultants, aligned with the development team’s requirements.
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Support the development and commercial teams in producing accurate cost estimates, considering any technical implications of the proposed construction type.
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Issue briefs to design consultants and subcontractors; manage their output to ensure production information is delivered on time, within scope, and according to agreed fees.
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Ensure working drawings comply with planning approvals, contract specifications, building regulations, and other applicable standards.
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Submit and actively follow up on statutory applications (e.g., crossovers, sewer connections, section agreements) to secure timely approvals.
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Coordinate and monitor production information with the project QS, development, and construction teams to maintain cost control and align outputs with budget targets.
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Use WHDMS to review and approve drawings, confirming compliance with building regulations and relevant standards; reject non-compliant documents and coordinate with design teams to resolve issues.
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Manage internal distribution of preliminary, construction, and as-built information in collaboration with the Document Controller; address departmental feedback and ensure a fully coordinated, high-quality design package.
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Review the Building Control specification from the Architect to confirm it reflects WH’s materials, standard details, and contract-specific requirements.
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Evaluate designs for fire stopping compliance; prepare specifications and work with quality and construction teams to ensure implementation across projects.
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Verify all materials used (both WH and subcontractor supplied) comply with planning approvals, building regulations, contract specifications, and standards; gather and store supporting documentation.
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Communicate material specifications to Procurement and Commercial teams, ensuring trade specifications reflect approved materials.
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Work with the Document Controller to ensure material schedules are properly maintained in WHDMS.
Must Haves:
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Strong knowledge of the development and technical design process
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Proven experience in detailed residential design across various construction methods (e.g., lightweight steel frame, traditional steel, timber frame, masonry)
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Ability to critically assess and challenge design information across all disciplines
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Background in architecture or engineering; AutoCAD proficiency is a plus
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Solid understanding of Building Regulations and LABC warranty standards
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Capable of interpreting and analysing design and project programmes
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Degree-qualified or holding a relevant professional certification
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Confident communicator across all disciplines and levels
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Highly organised with strong coordination skills
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Excellent attention to detail
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Effective at managing people, processes, and timelines
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Strong team player with outstanding communication abilities
Benefits
* Excellent salary upto £72,000
* Car allowance
* 25 days holiday + bank holidays