Job Description
Senior Design Manager – Hertfordshire
Tier 1 Main Contractor | Commercial, Life Sciences & Education
We are partnering with a market-leading Tier 1 main contractor with an exceptional reputation for delivering complex, high-value projects across the Commercial, Life Sciences, and Education sectors. With a strong secured pipeline and continued regional growth, they are seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to join their established team in Hertfordshire.
This is an opportunity to take a leading role on technically challenging schemes within a business known for quality, innovation, and collaborative project delivery.
The Opportunity
As Senior Design Manager, you will be responsible for leading the design process from pre-construction through to completion. Working closely with project teams, consultants, and clients, you will ensure design solutions are commercially viable, technically robust, and delivered in line with programme requirements.
You will play a key leadership role, managing both internal and external stakeholders while driving coordination across all design disciplines.
Projects typically range from large commercial developments and high-specification life science facilities to complex education schemes, often incorporating advanced MEP services and technical detailing.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the full design process through all RIBA stages
* Chair and manage design team meetings and workshops
* Coordinate multi-disciplinary consultant teams
* Review and manage design deliverables against programme
* Identify and mitigate design risks and technical challenges
* Ensure compliance with statutory approvals and building regulations
* Work closely with commercial teams to manage design cost control
* Support procurement strategies through design development
* Drive value engineering while maintaining quality and specification
* Manage design changes and ensure clear communication across teams
* Provide technical leadership to project teams and junior design managers
* Candidate RequirementsTo be considered for this position, candidates must have main contractor experience. This is essential.In addition, you will ideally have:
o Proven experience delivering projects within Commercial, Life Sciences, or Education sectors
o Strong understanding of complex MEP coordination
o Experience managing design on medium to large-scale schemes
o Ability to lead meetings and engage confidently with clients
o Strong knowledge of construction processes and buildability
o Experience working within Tier 1 or large regional contractors
o Excellent communication and leadership skills
We are also keen to speak with Senior Part 3 Qualified Architects who have transitioned into contractor-side roles and have gained strong site and delivery experience. This role offers a clear pathway for experienced architectural professionals looking to further develop their career within main contracting.Why Join?
o Work on high-profile, technically challenging schemes
o Join a stable and financially strong Tier 1 contractor
o Strong secured project pipeline across multiple sectors
o Clear progression opportunities into Design Lead or Regional Design roles
o Collaborative and forward-thinking working culture
o Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package