Senior Design Manager – Architecture & Facades
Location:London Design Partner Offices
Project:£900M Landmark Life Sciences Scheme
Shape thearchitectural vision of one of the UK's most advanced life sciences developments.
Laing O'Rourke is seeking aSenior Design Manager – Architecture & Facadesto lead the architectural and envelope design strategy for a nationally significant £900m life sciences facility. This is a critical role for a high-performing design leader, embedded within an integrated pre-construction team working between Dartford and our London-based design partners.
Why this role matters
As our architectural and façade lead during the 2-year PCSA phase, you will:
* Shape and coordinate architectural design development from RIBA Stage 2 onwards, covering high-containment labs, specialist clinical spaces, and secure research zones.
* Lead the interface between client-side advisors, architects, envelope specialists, and technical consultants.
* Ensure alignment across security, functional, aesthetic and compliance requirements, particularly for high-assurance and regulated environments.
* Drive integration of MMC, DfMA and digital engineering in façade and architectural packages.
* Embed sustainable, durable and technically compliant solutions into the heart of the design.
What you'll bring
* Proven experience working onhigh-containment, healthcare, or science-led projects(e.g.CL3/CL4 labs, clean rooms, biopharma, or similar) will be highly advantageous.
* Confidence navigatingcomplex stakeholder landscapes, including third-partyregulatory and compliance bodies(such as HSE, Home Office, and internal security).
* Demonstrated ability to lead architectural and façade design from early concept through to technical assurance, coordinating with consultants and supply chain partners.
* Degree-qualified in Architecture, Façade Engineering or a related discipline (RIBA Part III or equivalent preferred).
* 10+ years' experience across major project phases with strong client-facing, risk management and programme leadership capabilities.
* A collaborative mindset and ability to bring together multidisciplinary teams around a clear architectural strategy.
What you'll gain
* The opportunity to lead architectural design on one of the UK'smost significant science and innovation programmes.
* A role at the heart of Laing O'Rourke's integrated model – influencing early decisions that shape long-term value.
* A platform to embed design excellence, sustainability and innovation into a nationally critical facility.
Inclusion at our core
We believe great design leadership thrives on diversity of perspective and experience. We're building a workplace where everyone belongs, and welcome applications from all communities. We're also happy to explore flexible and inclusive ways of working.
This is more than design management – it's your opportunity to lead with purpose and help shape the next generation of scientific infrastructure.
Apply now for a confidential conversation.
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