Senior Design Manager / Design Lead – Major Education Project Location: Cardiff Salary: Competitive excellent benefits Sector: Construction / Education / Major Projects The Opportunity An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Design Manager / Design Lead to take a pivotal role on a large-scale education project in Cardiff, valued at approximately £100m. This is a high-profile, technically complex scheme delivered by a leading Tier 1 contractor, offering long-term stability and the chance to influence a landmark development in South Wales. You will act as the Design Lead, managing the full design lifecycle from pre-construction through to delivery, ensuring design excellence, compliance, and coordination across multiple disciplines. Key Responsibilities * Lead and manage the design process on a major education project from RIBA Stage 2 through to completion * Act as the single point of contact for all design-related matters, coordinating internal teams, consultants, and stakeholders * Manage and challenge architects, engineers, and specialist designers to ensure buildability, value, and programme alignment * Ensure compliance with statutory regulations, planning conditions, and employer’s requirements * Drive design coordination using BIM and digital design tools, ensuring clash-free and coordinated outputs * Manage design risk, change control, and technical queries * Chair design workshops and progress meetings, producing clear reports and action plans * Support procurement, construction, and commissioning teams with technical input * Promote best practice in health & safety, sustainability, and quality Requirements * Proven experience as a Senior Design Manager, Design Manager, or Design Lead on large construction projects * Strong background in education, healthcare, or complex public-sector projects * Experience working for a Tier 1 or major main contractor * In-depth knowledge of the UK construction and design process, including D&B contracts * Strong understanding of BIM (Level 2), technical compliance, and design coordination * Excellent stakeholder management and leadership skills * Degree-qualified in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience) * Chartered status (RIBA, CIOB, ICE, or similar) desirable but not essential What’s on Offer * Opportunity to lead a £100m flagship education scheme * Long-term, career-defining role on a major project in Cardiff * Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package * Collaborative, professional working environment with clear progression opportunities Apply If you are a Senior Design Manager or Design Lead looking to take ownership of a prestigious education project in South Wales, this role offers scale, challenge, and long-term opportunity