Design Manager – Cardiff
Tier 1 Main Contractor | Ministry of Justice & Public Sector Projects | Long-Term Career Opportunity
A leading Tier 1 main contractor is seeking an experienced Design Manager to join its established regional team, delivering a diverse portfolio of Ministry of Justice and public sector construction projects across Cardiff and the surrounding South Wales region.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a highly respected contractor with a strong pipeline of secured work, a collaborative project environment, and a reputation for investing in its people. The business offers a supportive and enjoyable working culture alongside genuine long-term career progression opportunities.
The Role
As Design Manager, you will play a key role in the successful delivery of complex construction projects from pre-construction through to completion. Working closely with operational, commercial, and client teams, you will manage and coordinate the design process to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, on programme, and to the highest quality standards.
Projects will primarily include Ministry of Justice schemes alongside other public sector developments across the Cardiff area.
Key Responsibilities
* Managing and coordinating the design process throughout all project phases
* Liaising with clients, consultants, subcontractors, and internal delivery teams
* Reviewing and managing design information, technical submissions, and RFIs
* Ensuring designs are compliant with contractual, statutory, and regulatory requirements
* Driving value engineering and buildability solutions
* Supporting project delivery teams to achieve programme and quality objectives
* Chairing and leading design team meetings
* Managing design risk and resolving technical issues proactively
Requirements
* Proven experience working as a Design Manager within a main contracting environment
* Strong understanding of construction delivery processes across major projects
* Experience working on public sector, custodial, healthcare, education, or commercial schemes would be advantageous
* Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
* Ability to manage multiple design packages and coordinate multidisciplinary teams
* Relevant construction or design-related qualification
What’s on Offer
* Opportunity to work with a leading Tier 1 contractor
* Strong and experienced project team environment
* Secure long-term pipeline of work across South Wales
* Supportive and collaborative culture
* Excellent career development and progression prospects
* Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
If you are a Design Manager looking for a long-term opportunity within a well-established contractor delivering high-profile projects in the Cardiff region, we would be keen to hear from you