T Equans, we're delivering some of the UK's most complex refurbishment, fire remediation, and re-cladding projects — and we're looking for a Design Manager to play a key role in shaping safe, compliant, and high-quality buildings.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead design from pre-construction through to delivery on high-value refurbishment projects, including Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs), working closely with clients, consultants, and internal teams.
What you'll be doing
Leading the design process from tender stage through to construction, taking full technical responsibility for allocated projects
Managing consultant and surveyor procurement, appointments, and performance
Reviewing Employer's Requirements and contributing to Contractor's Proposals
Carrying out design risk appraisals to support successful tenders
Developing and managing detailed design and pre-construction programmes
Chairing design team meetings and leading client design workshops and presentations
Ensuring design solutions are compliant, buildable, cost-effective, and meet all statutory and contractual requirements
Working closely with Commercial, Pre-Construction, and Delivery teams to resolve design and technical queries
Managing design change control and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality information
Supporting compliance with the Building Safety Act, Building Regulations, warranties, and planning conditions
Collaborating with the Principal Designer (BR) to meet statutory duties
Supporting and mentoring Design Coordinators and contributing to team development
Driving continuous improvement, digital adoption, and BIM best practice within the design function
What we're looking for
Essential
Proven experience leading design on refurbishment or complex construction projects
Strong understanding of construction forms and detailing (RC, steel, timber, masonry)
Experience supporting single and two-stage tender processes
Working knowledge of JCT, NEC, and PPC contracts
Ability to programme design works using Asta Powerproject or MS Project
Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
Knowledge of statutory compliance, building legislation, and industry standards
Experience using Common Data Environments and digital design tools
Qualifications
Degree or equivalent qualification in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or similar
Desirable
Experience on Higher-Risk Buildings, fire remediation, or re-cladding projects
Membership of a professional body (CIOB, RICS, RIBA, ICE)
BIM, project management, or health & safety certifications
Why Equans?
Work on technically challenging, meaningful projects that improve safety and communities
Clear progression and development pathways
Supportive, collaborative culture with a strong focus on wellbeing
Commitment to innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability
Equans is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements.