Freelance Design Manager – New Build College Projects (West London)
Location: West London (site/project-based)
Contract: Freelance / Contract (CIS/Ltd)
Start: ASAP
Rate: £300 - £375 per day (Dependent on Experience)
My client is looking for a Freelance Design Manager to join a major new build college project in West London. The scheme’s design is already developed, and the project is currently at RIBA Stage 2. We need someone who can confidently take the lead on design meetings, driving coordination with consultants and internal project teams to ensure the design is delivered efficiently, compliantly, and in line with programme and budget.
Job Purpose & Scope
You will support the design process to develop and deliver a design that meets all contractual requirements, using cost-effective and buildable solutions. You’ll play a key role in coordination across design, procurement, and construction to ensure the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the client’s requirements.
Overall responsibility for:
* Liaison between the Client, Design Consultants, and project staff
* Liaison with the Site Manager for the development of design packages and procurement strategies
Key Accountabilities & Tasks
* Support the Design Manager in leading the design process across preconstruction and construction phases
* Assist with overseeing design consultants, ensuring compliance, buildability, and efficiency
* Support liaison between client, consultants, project teams, and site management
* Coordinate the preparation, review, and support sign-off of all design documentation
* Ensure robust flow and control of design information, aligned to Document Management Procedures
* Support commercial and procurement teams in developing design packages and procurement strategies
* Represent the Client in meetings with clients, stakeholders, and regulatory bodies
* Support design input relating to environmental certifications (e.g., BREEAM)
* Contribute to risk management and design quality reviews at key stages
* Support the facilitation of design handovers between preconstruction and site teams
Essential Criteria
* Relevant Construction or Architecture qualification
* Previous main contractor experience
* Strong understanding of the Design & Build process
* Excellent knowledge of design process through commercial and construction design stages
* Good working knowledge of the RIBA Plan of Work
* Strong in-depth technical knowledge
* Good knowledge of the planning process
* Proven experience managing design across multiple project types (e.g., Residential, Schools, Hospitals, Student Accommodation)
* Working knowledge of Building Regulations
Why this role?
This is a great opportunity to step into a live, high-value education project at an early stage and make a genuine impact—driving coordination, decision-making, and design delivery through the next phases