Job Description
We are currently seeking a Freelance Design Manager to join our growing team at Guildmore COnstruction Unit and take responsibility for managing the design process on one of our exciting upcoming projects.\n\nThe Design Manager will be responsible for leading and coordinating the design process from pre-construction through to handover. Working closely with internal teams, consultants, and client representatives, you will ensure that the project is delivered to programme, budget, and design intent while ensuring compliance with statutory and contractual obligations.\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\nLeadership\n\n * \n\n Manage and mentor an Assistant Design Co-ordinator in line with internal processes and KPIs.\n\nStrategic Oversight\n\n * \n\n Promote strategic awareness of contractual obligations and align project design delivery with wider business goals.\n\nRisk Management\n\n * \n\n Develop and manage the technical risk register, highlighting design and compliance risks and reporting on mitigation strategies.\n\nProcess & Compliance\n\n * \n\n Operate within Guildmore’s internal procedures including trackers, reports, and checklists, and contribute to their ongoing improvement.\n\nPre-Construction\n\n * \n\n Lead the development of project specifications and the Contractor’s Proposals at project inception.\n\nProgramme Management\n\n * \n\n Establish and manage the design programme and information release schedule in alignment with the master construction programme.\n\nConsultant Management\n\n * \n\n Define scopes, obtain and assess fee proposals from multi-disciplinary consultants, and validate their service delivery against a robust responsibility matrix.\n\nClient Liaison\n\n * \n\n Prepare and present design updates in monthly client meetings. Manage approvals for design, specifications, and samples.\n\nValue Engineering\n\n * \n\n Drive efficient design by providing cost-conscious direction to consultants, eliminating waste, and aligning solutions with both client brief and planning conditions.\n\nBuildability\n\n * \n\n Ensure design outputs support practical, efficient construction.
Work closely with the Operations team to identify and mitigate buildability issues.\n\nCo-ordination\n\n * \n\n Oversee and co-ordinate all design outputs to eliminate clashes and gaps. Manage the design approval process and respond to site RFIs and TQs.\n\nRegulatory Compliance\n\n * \n\n Review all planning conditions, Building Control, and NHBC requirements. Manage timely discharge of all statutory conditions.\n\nHandover & Closeout\n\n * \n\n Co-ordinate and compile all necessary documentation for client handover, including approvals from BCO, NHBC, and Planning authorities.\n\nCDM Responsibilities\n\n * \n\n Collaborate with the Principal Designer to ensure CDM regulations are adhered to and assist in preparing the Health & Safety File.\n\nIn return, we provide a competitive salary.\n\nFounded in 1988, Guildmore is a family-owned business dedicated to fostering a supportive workplace where growth and well-being take centre stage.\nWith four specialised units—Construction, Facades & Cladding, Planned Works, and Land Development—we deliver bespoke solutions for clients and communities.\n\nAs an Equal Opportunities Employer, we are committed to inclusivity and ensuring that everyone can thrive.\n\nJoin our team and be part of something exceptional at Guildmore