Head of Design – Active & Passive Fire | Build & Lead a National Function
This is not a typical Head of Design role.
We’re working with a growing contractor delivering complex projects across the built environment, now looking to appoint a Head of Design to take full ownership of their design capability across both Active and Passive Fire disciplines.
Following continued growth and a strong pipeline of secured work, the business is investing heavily in building a more structured, scalable design function — and this role will lead that from the ground up.
The Opportunity
This is a genuine blank canvas with national scope.
You’ll be responsible for:
* Building and leading a design team covering Active & Passive Fire
* Creating and implementing design processes, standards, and frameworks
* Managing and coordinating design across multiple internal workstreams
* Bringing together currently siloed design functions into one cohesive structure
* Overseeing design delivery from pre-construction through to project execution
* Working closely with commercial and operational teams to improve project outcomes
This is a strategic leadership role with real influence across the business.
About You
* Strong background in design management within construction or the built environment
* Experience overseeing complex, multi-discipline design (fire experience beneficial, not essential)
* Proven leadership experience — or a Senior Design Manager ready to step up
* Comfortable operating at both strategic and hands-on levels
* Experience improving processes, systems, and team structures
Importantly: this role is not limited to fire specialists — candidates from a general construction design background will be considered.
Why This Role?
* Ownership of both Active & Passive Fire design across a growing business
* Opportunity to build a function from scratch
* Influence business-wide strategy and delivery
* Flexible location across regional offices
* Strong, secured pipeline of work
* Long-term progression and impact
If you’re looking for a role where you can take full ownership, unify multiple design disciplines, and build something meaningful — this is worth exploring.
Apply now or get in touch for a confidential discussion