Design Manager

Job Description

Ivy Resource Group are working with a well-established contractor to recruit an experienced Design Manager for a permanent role based in Swindon, overseeing the design process on a range of projects.

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The company:

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Our client is an award-winning, family-owned construction and property services company established in 1892. Headquartered in Swindon, England, the company operates across central southern England, delivering design and build, new-build, restoration, refurbishment, and maintenance projects across sectors including education, healthcare, commercial, residential, arts and culture, and sports and leisure.

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The Role:

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• Managed and coordinated the design process from pre-construction through to project completion, ensuring compliance with client requirements, programme, and budget.
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• Led multidisciplinary design teams, including architects, structural engineers, MEP consultants, and specialist subcontractors.
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• Reviewed design information for quality, buildability, compliance, and coordination prior to construction.
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• Identified and mitigated design risks, resolving technical issues to minimise programme delays and cost impacts.
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• Collaborated closely with project managers, commercial teams, and site teams to ensure seamless delivery of projects.
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• Chaired design team meetings and maintained design programmes to achieve key project milestones.
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• Ensured compliance with Building Regulations, planning conditions, and relevant industry standards.
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• Managed the production, review, and approval of design documentation using BIM and digital collaboration platforms.
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• Coordinated value engineering initiatives to improve buildability, sustainability, and cost efficiency without compromising quality.
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• Liaised with clients and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle, providing technical advice and design updates.
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• Supported pre-construction activities, including tender reviews, design development, and contractor proposals.
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• Promoted sustainable design solutions and best practice in line with Beard Construction's commitment to quality and environmental responsibility.
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• Monitored consultant performance and managed design deliverables to meet contractual obligations.
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• Ensured effective communication between all project stakeholders, fostering collaborative working relationships.
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• Contributed to successful project delivery across sectors including education, healthcare, commercial, residential, heritage, and public sector developments.
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The Ideal Candidate:

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• Proven experience as a Design Manager within the construction industry, preferably with a main contractor.
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• Strong understanding of the design process across all RIBA stages, from pre-construction to project completion.
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• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary design teams, consultants, and specialist subcontractors.
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• Comprehensive knowledge of UK Building Regulations, planning requirements, CDM Regulations, and construction standards.
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• Excellent technical understanding of construction methods, materials, and building systems.
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• Ability to identify design risks and develop practical, cost-effective solutions.
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• Strong organisational and programme management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
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• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, building positive relationships with clients, consultants, and project teams.
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• Experience using BIM processes and common digital design management platforms.
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• Commercial awareness with an understanding of buildability, value engineering, and project budgets.
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• A collaborative and proactive approach, with the ability to lead and influence multidisciplinary teams.
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• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills under changing project demands.
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• Commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable construction solutions.
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• Relevant construction qualification in architecture, engineering, construction management, or a related discipline.
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Salary & Package:

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  Up to £60,000 - £90,000 per annum

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  Competitive benefits package

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  Opportunity to work on high-profile, high-value projects

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• 27 days (+BHs) annual leave, Car Leasing scheme via salary sacrifice, Death in Service (4x), Cycle to Work, Cash Plan (claim back), Pension 3% Ee / 5% Er
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How to apply:

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Please submit your CV and a member of our team will respond to you.

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Ivy Resource Group are committed to promoting equal opportunities to people regardless of age, gender, religion, belief, race, sexuality or disability. We operate as an employment agency and employment business.

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