Your newpany
You will be joining a highly respected Tier 1 main contractor operating within the East of England, deliveringplex projects across the education, healthcare, public sector and civic markets.The business has a strong regional presence, an excellent forward order book and a collaborative reputation built on long‑standing client and supply‑chain relationships. With a growing workload secured through key frameworks and negotiated opportunities, thepany is investing in strengthening its senior leadership team.
Your new role
As Head of Design Management, you will lead the Design Management function for a well‑established regional business. Reporting directly to the Area Director, you will take full responsibility for the day‑to‑day leadership, performance and development of the design team.
Your role will span pre‑construction and delivery, with key responsibilities including:
1. Leading and line‑managing Design Managers across multiple projects
2. Resource planning, recruitment and capability development of the design function
3. Shaping design strategy and approach during bids, PCSAs and second‑stage procurements
4. Managing consultant engagement and design programmes through all relevant RIBA stages
5. Promoting strong collaboration between design,mercial, operations and SHEQ teams
6. Ensuring designernance,pliance, quality and risk management standards are met
7. Representing the design function at senior leadership and business reviews
This is a leadership position,bining strategic oversight with hands‑on input where required. The role is office‑based with regular site visits across the region.
What you'll need to succeed
You will be an experienced Senior or Principal Design Manager ready to step into a head‑of‑function role, or an existing Head of Design seeking a strong regional remit.
Key requirements include:
8. Significant experience working for a Tier 1 / major main contractor
9. Proven delivery across education, healthcare and public sector schemes (£10m–£50m+)
10. Strong background in two‑stage (PCSA) design & build procurement
11. Demonstrable leadership and line‑management capability
12. Confidence managing consultant teams and stakeholder relationships
13. Sound knowledge of BIM, digital design processes and sustainability, including BREEAM and embodied carbon considerations
14. Ability to operate effectively in both work‑winning and delivery environments
15. Degree‑level qualification (or equivalent) and professional membership desirable
You will be a clearmunicator,fortable operating at senior management level, and able to influence oues across multiple disciplines.
What you'll get in return
In return, you will receive:
16. Apetitive salary in line with a senior leadership role
17. Car allowance, bonus scheme andprehensive benefits package
18. The opportunity to sit within the Senior Management Team, influencing regional strategy
19. A stable, growing business with a strong pipeline and repeat work
20. A collaborative, inclusive culture that genuinely invests in its people
21. The chance to shape and develop the design function as the region continues to grow
This role offers genuine long-term career progression within a high‑performing regional business.