Reference: MO150426_1779976570
Posted: May 28, 2026
Experienced Design Manager required by the Southern region of this leading Tier 1 main contractor to manage the design process for an ongoing £90m MoJ project in Newport, Isle of Wight.
Work has been underway on site for the past 18 months, with an ongoing programme of works which will continue until the end of 2027. The scope of work includes extensive Fire Safety Improvement works, a new build rapid deployment block, re-roofing works and refurbishment of other areas.
This is an NEC3 form of contract. The nature of working within live buildings involves regular challenges and reaction, so there will be regular change, Early Warning Notices to the client with proposed resolution, design development in order to agree Compensation Events. In addition the client is also instructing some additional works.
Reporting to and working closely with the Senior Project Manager for the scheme, you will be responsible for:
* Management of the design development.
* Management of consultant design team.
* Regular liaison with client, architect, consultants and the construction team.
* Agreement of information required schedule; Ensuring key dates achieved.
* Review of construction design information for buildability, compliance with contractors proposals, employers requirements, budget, current building legislation, etc.
* Identifying opportunities for value engineering opportunities where appropriate.
* Proactive issue resolution.
* Overall managing the smooth and timely delivery of detailed design information for procurement and construction throughout the build process once underway.
About the Company/Client/Project:
The company is a leading national main contractor, with experience and a proven track record in the delivery of complex new build schemes in secondary education, higher education, MoJ, commercial offices, senior living, leisure centres and data centres ranging from £35m to £100m in the Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire, areas. Turnover is circa £140m+ for the office, with a regional base in Berkshire.
Requirements including certificates and qualifications:
Either from an Engineering/Construction delivery or Architectural background, you will possess excellent technical and commercial knowledge, a keen understanding of construction methodology, materials and systems, procurement lead in times, etc.
Previous experience of working on an MoJ scheme and an understanding of Fire Safety Improvement works would be advantageous but not essential.
You will have excellent communication and negotiations skills, strong planning and problem solving ability, initiative and a positive approach. In terms of character, you will be a highly driven, positive and ambitious individual able to work well within a large team dynamic.
You will ideally have a proven track record of successful project delivery with a recognised Main Contractor in a Design Coordination / Design Management role.
High standards, attention to detail and the drive to deliver on programme, specification and budget will be very well rewarded with excellent salary, benefits, promotional and development prospects.
This is a fairly easy location to commute to if you live in the Southampton, Portsmouth or Lymington areas and the contractor will cover all of the travel expenses.
They are willing to for lodging away during the week for the right candidate who lives further away. If you opt to lodge on the island during the week, the contractor will also pay a 10% salary uplift for the duration of this project.
This is a full-time salaried role where you will ideally work with the business for the long-term, but a fixed-term contract for the duration will be an option for the right candidate if preferable and based outside the regional patch.
For more information on this contract please contact Martin Olney on 07984 174040 or send your CV to molney@fr-group.co.uk
Candidates must be able to prove their eligibility to work in the UK
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