Design Manager – Main Contractor | Cardiff & Vale | South Wales

Sphere Solutions are working with a well-established main contractor to recruit an experienced Design Manager to join their project delivery team in South Wales.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Design Manager with a strong main contractor background to work on a long-term pipeline of education framework projects across the Cardiff and Vale areas. Future projects will continue throughout South Wales, offering long-term stability and clear career progression.

The successful Design Manager will work closely with commercial, construction, and site teams to manage and coordinate the design process from pre-construction through to project completion. The business is known for its low staff turnover, strong leadership, and commitment to developing its people.

Role & Responsibilities

• Managing the design process from tender through to construction and handover
• Coordinating architects, consultants, and subcontractor design packages
• Ensuring designs are compliant with client requirements, building regulations, and programme
• Supporting pre-construction, value engineering, and buildability reviews
• Working collaboratively with site, commercial, and project management teams
• Managing design risk and change control

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager with a main contractor
• Experience working on education projects and/or heritage projects advantageous
• Strong understanding of construction methodology and design coordination
• Ability to manage multiple design packages and stakeholders
• Excellent communication and organisational skills

What’s on Offer

• Permanent Design Manager position with a reputable main contractor
• Secure workload through long-term education frameworks
• Excellent long-term career progression opportunities
• Highly competitive salary and benefits package
• Stable employer with a strong presence across South Wales

This role would suit a Design Manager based in or around Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan, Newport, Bridgend, or the wider South Wales region who is looking for long-term career stability with a quality main contractor.

Get in touch today for a confidential discussion.