Senior Design Manager

R# Senior Design Manager / Design Lead – Major Education Project

Location: Cardiff
Salary: Competitive + excellent benefits
Sector: Construction / Education / Major Projects

The Opportunity

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Senior Design Manager / Design Lead to take a pivotal role on a large-scale education project in Cardiff, valued at approximately £100m. This is a high-profile, technically complex scheme delivered by a leading Tier 1 contractor, offering long-term stability and the chance to influence a landmark development in South Wales.

You will act as the Design Lead, managing the full design lifecycle from pre-construction through to delivery, ensuring design excellence, compliance, and coordination across multiple disciplines.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process on a major education project from RIBA Stage 2 through to completion
• Act as the single point of contact for all design-related matters, coordinating internal teams, consultants, and stakeholders
• Manage and challenge architects, engineers, and specialist designers to ensure buildability, value, and programme alignment
• Ensure compliance with statutory regulations, planning conditions, and employer’s requirements
• Drive design coordination using BIM and digital design tools, ensuring clash-free and coordinated outputs
• Manage design risk, change control, and technical queries
• Chair design workshops and progress meetings, producing clear reports and action plans
• Support procurement, construction, and commissioning teams with technical input
• Promote best practice in health & safety, sustainability, and quality

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Senior Design Manager, Design Manager, or Design Lead on large construction projects
• Strong background in education, healthcare, or complex public-sector projects
• Experience working for a Tier 1 or major main contractor
• In-depth knowledge of the UK construction and design process, including D&B contracts
• Strong understanding of BIM (Level 2), technical compliance, and design coordination
• Excellent stakeholder management and leadership skills
• Degree-qualified in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related discipline (or equivalent experience)
• Chartered status (RIBA, CIOB, ICE, or similar) desirable but not essential

What’s on Offer

• Opportunity to lead a £100m flagship education scheme
• Long-term, career-defining role on a major project in Cardiff
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• Collaborative, professional working environment with clear progression opportunities

Apply

If you are a Senior Design Manager or Design Lead looking to take ownership of a prestigious education project in South Wales, this role offers scale, challenge, and long-term opportunity.