Job Description
Architectural Design Manager / Senior Design Architect - Belfast
A successful design and construct industry partner has a unique opportunity for an experienced Architectural Design Manager or Senior Design Architect. Reporting to the Design Director you are responsible for leading, coordinating, and controlling the design process across all project stages—from concept through construction and handover—for technically complex projects including hyperscale data centres, GMP pharmaceutical facilities, and large-scale logistics hubs.
This role ensures that design outputs meet client requirements, statutory compliance, budget constraints, program milestones, and constructability standards while maintaining design integrity and technical excellence. The position operates at the interface between client, consultants, specialist designers, supply chain, and construction teams.
Key Responsibilities
Design Leadership & Coordination
* Lead multidisciplinary design teams (architectural, structural, civil, MEP, process).
* Manage design deliverables across RIBA or equivalent stage gates.
* Coordinate specialist designers (e.g., CSA, MEP, process, cleanroom, ICT, BMS).
* Ensure integration of mission-critical systems in data centre projects.
* Oversee pharmaceutical layouts ensuring GMP zoning and process flow integrity.
* Coordinate large-span structural and yard design for logistics facilities.
Technical Governance & Compliance
Ensure compliance with:
* Building regulations and local planning authority requirements
* Client design standards
* Environmental and sustainability targets (LEED/BREEAM where applicable)
* Pharmaceutical regulatory frameworks (e.g., GMP, ISPE guidelines)
* Data centre redundancy standards (e.g., Tier III/IV principles)
* Manage design risk registers and technical assurance processes.
* Chair design review meetings and technical workshops.
Commercial & Programme Management
* Align design development with procurement strategy.
* Control design change management and mitigate scope creep.
* Support value engineering initiatives without compromising compliance or performance.
* Ensure design information is issued in line with the construction programme.
Stakeholder & Client Management
* Act as the primary design interface with client representatives.
* Present design solutions and resolve technical queries.
* Manage consultant performance and deliverable quality.
Construction Phase Support
* Ensure design intent is maintained during construction.
* Review contractor submittals and shop drawings.
* Resolve site technical queries (RFIs).
* Participate in commissioning planning for data centre and pharma systems.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience
* Degree in Architecture or Engineering (RIBA/ ARB / RIAI or equivalent preferred for architects)
* 8+ years' experience in design management or senior architectural role
* Proven delivery of large-scale industrial projects, data centres and/or mission-critical projects
* Experience in contractor-led design (Design & Build environment preferred)
* Strong knowledge of BIM coordination (Revit/Navisworks proficiency)
* Familiarity with digital collaboration platforms (e.g., CDE systems).
Benefits & Next Steps
* Permanent role
* Career progression and training
* High profile critical mission projects
* Proven professional culture within the team
* Top market salary & benefits package
To apply for the role send a detailed resume outlining all your experience and projects worked on. Sponsorship not available.