Design Manager – Major BTR Scheme (Bristol)
Location: Bristol
Contract: 6 Months Minimum (Potential to Extend)
Employer: Tier 1 Main Contractor
Start: ASAP
The Opportunity
We are recruiting for an experienced Design Manager to join a Tier 1 main contractor on a large and technically challenging Build-to-Rent (BTR) scheme in the heart of Bristol. This is an initial 6-month contract, with strong potential for extension due to the scale, complexity, and long-term programme of the development.
The project combines new build multi-room accommodation with significant refurbishment and repurposing elements, creating a unique design challenge that requires a confident, detail-focused professional who can coordinate multiple disciplines and drive design resolution efficiently.
This role is ideal for a Design Manager who thrives on complex technical detail, stakeholder engagement, and early-stage problem solving — and who has proven experience in residential multi-room schemes such as BTR, PBSA, hotels, or high-density mixed-use developments.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead design coordination across both new build and refurbishment phases, ensuring seamless integration between structural, MEP, architectural and interiors packages
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Manage design development in line with programme, buildability, and client expectations
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Work closely with project, technical, commercial and planning teams to drive early design decisions
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Oversee consultant design deliverables, ensuring timely information release
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Resolve technical queries and proactively manage design risks and clashes
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Liaise with planning bodies, Building Control, and regulatory stakeholders
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Ensure design output aligns with budget constraints, technical requirements, and quality standards
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Support procurement by reviewing specifications and assisting with tender packages
About You
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Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contracting environment
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Strong background in multi-room residential projects (BTR, PRS, PBSA, hotels essential)
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Experience with refurbishment, repurposing, and complex existing structures
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Able to confidently manage consultants, drive design meetings, and coordinate multi-disciplinary design teams
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Strong technical understanding of façade, MEP, logistics, Fire Safety, and compliance
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Excellent communication, organisation and problem-solving skills
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Able to work autonomously while integrating with a large project team
What’s on Offer
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6-month minimum contract with high likelihood of extension
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Opportunity to work on one of Bristol’s most exciting and complex BTR developments
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Join a well-established Tier 1 contractor with a strong pipeline and high industry reputation
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Competitive day rate
Please apply below and get in touch with Heather Duncan for more information