Design Manager – Tier 1 Main Contractor (Data Centres & Mission Critical Industrial Projects)
Location: Nationwide
Salary: £65,000 – £75,000 + 10% Car Allowance + Bonuses + Private Healthcare + Mileage Paid
About the Company:
Our client is a Tier 1 Main Contractor with an annual turnover exceeding £1 billion, delivering landmark projects across the data centre, industrial, and advanced manufacturing sectors. Renowned for technical excellence, innovation, and a collaborative culture, they continue to lead the market through sustainable growth and world-class project delivery.
The Role:
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Design Manager to join their high-performing team. You will oversee the design development process for major data centre and industrial build projects — working from early concept stages through to handover. This role offers exposure to technically complex, high-value schemes and genuine long-term career progression.
Key Responsibilities:
* Manage the full design process from pre-construction through delivery, ensuring design intent aligns with cost, quality, and programme targets
* Coordinate design teams, consultants, and subcontractors to ensure effective information flow and design development
* Review and manage technical submissions, design programmes, and change control procedures
* Lead design meetings with clients and internal stakeholders to resolve technical and coordination issues
* Ensure compliance with building regulations, health & safety standards, and client specifications
* Drive innovation and value engineering opportunities throughout the design process
* Support bid and pre-construction teams in developing design strategies and tender submissions
Requirements:
* Proven experience as a Design Manager within a Tier 1 or leading Tier 2 main contractor
* Background in data centre, industrial, distribution, or high-tech build projects (preferred)
* Strong understanding of design coordination, construction methodologies, and BIM processes
* Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
* Degree-qualified in a relevant construction or engineering discipline (or equivalent experience)
* Capable of managing multiple stakeholders and meeting key project milestones under pressure
What’s on Offer:
* Competitive base salary of £65,000 – £75,000 (depending on experience)
* 10% car allowance + mileage paid for
* Annual performance bonus scheme
* Private healthcare (individual and family cover options)
* Pension and comprehensive benefits package
* Opportunity to work on flagship, high-value projects across the UK and Europe
* Genuine career progression within a global market leader