Design Manager – Regional Contractor (Exeter)

Location: Exeter, UK
Salary: Up to £70,000 + Package
Job Type: Permanent

Take the Design Lead on Exciting Construction Projects!

Are you an experienced Design Manager looking to work with a leading regional contractor? Do you have a passion for delivering high-quality construction projects from concept to completion? If so, this is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-respected contractor with a strong pipeline of projects across the South West.

The Role: Design Manager

As a Design Manager, you will play a crucial role in ensuring innovative and efficient design solutions across a variety of construction projects. You will collaborate with architects, consultants, and project teams to ensure seamless project delivery.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the Design Process – Oversee all design stages from pre-construction to project completion.
• Coordination & Compliance – Work closely with architects, consultants, and internal teams to ensure designs are practical, cost-effective, and compliant with regulations.
• Value Engineering – Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality and buildability.
• Stakeholder Engagement – Liaise with clients, subcontractors, and suppliers to ensure smooth communication.
• Technical Oversight – Ensure all designs align with current building regulations, sustainability targets, and industry best practices.
• Risk Management – Identify and resolve potential design challenges before they impact project timelines.

What We’re Looking For:

• Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor or developer environment.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, building regulations, and technical design coordination.
• Experience working on commercial, education, healthcare, or mixed-use projects.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills to manage design challenges.
• Ability to lead design team meetings and coordinate effectively with stakeholders.
• Relevant qualifications in Construction, Architecture, or Engineering.

Why Join Us?

• Career Progression – Work with a contractor that values growth and development.
• Exciting Projects – Be part of a team delivering high-quality, innovative construction projects.
• Competitive Salary & Benefits – Up to £70,000 + Car/Allowance and package
• South West Focus – Work on projects in and around Exeter, reducing excessive travel.

How to Apply:

If you’re a Design Manager looking for an exciting opportunity with a leading regional contractor, we’d love to hear from you!

Send your CV to Jo Lambert at [email protected]
Or call 01752 421888 for a confidential discussion.

This role is handled by Sphere Solutions, a specialist in construction recruitment.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

As a recruitment agency, we are committed to promoting inclusive opportunities on behalf of our clients. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from under-represented communities. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or require adjustments during the recruitment process, we’ll work with you and the client to ensure a fair and supportive experience. We aim to represent employers who foster respectful, inclusive and collaborative workplaces — regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity or background.

Small Works Manager

Location: Exeter
Salary: Up to £60,000 + Car Allowance
Employment Type: Permanent

We are working with a well-established regional building contractor to recruit a Small Works Manager to join their team based from their Exeter office. This role will oversee a diverse portfolio of small works projects up to £250k–£300k, covering maintenance, refurbishment, and fit-out works across both public and private sectors.

The Role

You will take full ownership of small works projects from initial pricing through to completion, ensuring delivery to programme, budget, and quality standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing small works projects from tender stage through to final account
• Preparing estimates and supporting the estimating team on larger schemes
• Programming and coordinating labour, subcontractors, and materials
• Managing site teams and subcontractors on live projects
• Ensuring works are delivered safely, on time, and within budget
• Liaising with clients, consultants, and internal teams
• Overseeing quality control, H&S compliance, and site documentation
• Managing variations, costs, and project reporting

About You

• Proven experience managing small works, maintenance, or refurbishment projects
• Background in construction, fit-out, or building maintenance
• Strong commercial and organisational skills
• Comfortable managing projects from inception to completion
• Strong client-facing and communication skills
• SMSTS, Black or White CSCS Card, and First Aid (essential)

What’s on Offer

• Salary up to £60,000 (depending on experience)
• Car allowance
• Long-term, secure role with a reputable regional contractor
• Varied workload across public and private sector projects
• Supportive team and strong pipeline of local work

Our Commitment to Inclusion

As a recruitment agency, we are committed to promoting inclusive opportunities on behalf of our clients. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from under-represented communities.

If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or require adjustments during the recruitment process, we’ll work with you and the client to ensure a fair and supportive experience. We aim to represent employers who foster respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplaces — regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or background.

To Apply

For a confidential discussion, please contact Abbie Evans or Jo Lambert on 01752 421888, or apply as instructed.

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

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

This is an excellent opportunity for a Project Manager with a strong main contractor background to manage a long-term pipeline of education framework projects across the Cardiff and Vale areas. Future projects will continue across South Wales, providing career stability, progression, and the chance to work with a respected construction business known for its low staff turnover and supportive culture.

Role & Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of construction projects from pre-construction through to completion
• Manage project programmes, budgets, and resources effectively
• Coordinate site teams, subcontractors, and consultants to ensure smooth delivery
• Oversee quality, health & safety, and compliance with client requirements
• Support design, procurement, and commercial teams where required
• Maintain strong client and stakeholder relationships throughout the project lifecycle

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience as a Project Manager or Senior Project Manager with a main contractor
• Experience delivering education projects and/or heritage projects advantageous
• Strong knowledge of construction methodology, programme management, and commercial awareness
• Ability to manage multiple projects and teams simultaneously
• Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills

What’s on Offer

• Permanent Project Manager position with a reputable main contractor
• Secure long-term workload through education framework projects
• Excellent career progression opportunities within a stable business
• Highly competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunity to work on high-profile projects across South Wales

This role is ideal for a Project Manager based in or around Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan, Newport, Bridgend, or wider South Wales seeking long-term career growth with a quality main contractor.

Get in touch today for a confidential discussion.

Contracts Manager – Exeter

Salary: Up to £78,000 + Package
Location: Exeter (covering Somerset & North Devon)
Contract: Permanent

We are recruiting for an experienced Contracts Manager to join an award-winning, independent regional contractor delivering high-quality projects up to £15m in value.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a well-established business working across a diverse range of sectors including Commercial, Education, Industrial, Community/Leisure, and Healthcare.

The Role

As a Contracts Manager, you will take responsibility for overseeing multiple projects, ensuring successful delivery across quality, safety, programme, and commercial performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Report directly to the Senior Management Team, highlighting risks, progress, and issues
• Lead and resource site teams, ensuring compliance with Health & Safety legislation
• Maintain strong financial control across projects
• Oversee productivity and performance of site teams and subcontractors
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to required quality standards
• Monitor training needs and ensure compliance with company and legislative requirements

Essential Criteria

• Proven experience as a Contracts Manager or Senior Project Manager
• Track record delivering projects valued at £10m+
• SMSTS, CSCS & First Aid at Work (essential)
• NVQ Level 6 in Construction Management (preferred)
• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills
• Based within commuting distance of Exeter, covering Somerset & North Devon

What’s on Offer

• Salary up to £78,000 (depending on experience)
• Car allowance or company car (salary sacrifice)
• Pension contribution
• Private medical insurance
• Life assurance
• Generous annual leave and additional company benefits
• Long-term opportunity with a respected regional contractor

Our Commitment to Inclusion

As a recruitment agency, we are committed to promoting inclusive opportunities on behalf of our clients. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including those from under-represented communities.

If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or require adjustments during the recruitment process, we’ll work with you and the client to ensure a fair and supportive experience.

We aim to represent employers who foster respectful, inclusive, and collaborative workplaces — regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or background.

Site Manager – Façade / Externals | Major Education Development | Cardiff

Sphere Solutions is recruiting an experienced Site Manager with a solid background in façade and external packages to join the delivery team on a prestigious £100m education project near Cardiff. This is a key role within a long-term programme, offering the chance to contribute to a high-profile regional scheme with significant community impact.

You’ll be responsible for managing the façade works from start through delivery, ensuring safety, quality and programme objectives are achieved while working closely with subcontractors and the wider site team.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the delivery of façade and external works, ensuring high standards of quality, safety and programme performance
• Coordinate subcontractors and monitor progress to maintain efficient site operations
• Work collaboratively with project and commercial teams to support successful delivery
• Oversee inspections, quality benchmarks and installation sequencing
• Ensure compliance with health & safety requirements and site protocols
• Act as a primary point of contact for façade-related activities and stakeholder coordination

Requirements

• Proven experience managing façade or external packages in a Site Manager capacity
• Background in large-scale construction projects, preferably within education or commercial sectors
• Strong understanding of envelope installation processes, sequencing and quality control
• Confident managing subcontractors and driving site productivity
• Based near Cardiff or within commutable distance
• Able to commit to a long-term project and add value from early stages

Why Join This Project?

• Be part of a flagship £100m development from the outset
• Long-term opportunity with a major contractor
• Key position influencing programme success and façade delivery
• Supportive site team, excellent progression potential

If you’re an experienced Façade/Externals Site Manager ready for the next step on a major scheme, let’s talk.

Contact Giles Wilson at Sphere Solutions to discuss further.

Role Summary:
Include the client name and/or industry, the location of the role, and a brief description of the project they will be working on. Include key words like construction, relevant sector (Rail, Mechanical & Electrical, Retail, Housing, Residential, Social Housing, etc). PLEASE USE SPELLCHECK BEFORE SUBMITTING.

Essential Skills & Qualifications:
·List essential qual here e.g. SMSTS
·List essential qual here e.g. Degree in Construction Management minimum 2:1
·List essential skill here e.g. experienced with extensive cost and supplier management
·List essential skill here e.g. high level of experience in supervising Hot Works

Desirable Skills and Experience:
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·List desirable skill or experience here
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Closing date for applications: DD/MMM/YYYY

For further information, please contact YOUR NAME on YOUR CONTACT NUMBER, or click Apply Now to submit your application for this role.

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Health and Safety Advisor – Gloucester

Are you an experienced Health and Safety professional looking for your next challenge? Join a busy, award-winning business in Gloucester that truly values its people and offers a clear, structured career path.

About the Role

As a Health and Safety Advisor, you will report directly to the Company Health and Safety Manager. You’ll work closely with site teams, clients, and contractors to ensure that all projects comply with strict HSE regulations. Your expertise will help maintain a safe, efficient, and high-performing working environment across all operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Implement and monitor health and safety policies across projects.
• Conduct site inspections and risk assessments to identify hazards.
• Provide guidance and support to site teams on HSE best practices.
• Ensure compliance with statutory regulations and company safety standards.
• Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Deliver safety training and toolbox talks to staff as required.

Requirements

• Proven experience as a Health and Safety Advisor, ideally in construction or a similar sector.
• Relevant H&S qualifications (NEBOSH, IOSH, or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of current HSE legislation and best practices.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with teams at all levels.
• Confident in conducting risk assessments, audits, and incident investigations.

What We Offer

• A supportive, enjoyable working environment where your contribution is valued.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Exposure to exciting projects in a fast-paced, award-winning organisation.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

If you are passionate about health and safety and want to make a real impact on projects while growing your career, this is the perfect opportunity for you.

Location: Gloucester
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience

Apply now to join a business that genuinely cares about its people and puts safety at the heart of everything it does.

We’re looking for an experienced Project Manager to work with a Project Director on a flagship £80m education scheme in Barry. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a highly successful, award-winning Tier 1 main contractor – the market leader in Wales – and play a pivotal role in delivering a landmark project.

Key Responsibilities

As No.2 on the project, you will:

• Help lead the delivery of a complex, high-value education scheme from inception to handover
• Manage and motivate a dedicated site and project team
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, ensuring expectations are exceeded
• Drive programme, quality, safety and commercial performance
• Represent the business as the key figure on site

About You

• Proven track record of successfully leading projects of £20m+ value
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent client-facing and communication abilities
• Commercial awareness and a focus on quality delivery
• Background in major building projects (education experience desirable but not essential)

What’s on Offer

• A highly competitive salary and benefits package
• Performance-related bonuses
• Ongoing professional development and genuine career progression
• The chance to deliver a project that will have a lasting impact on the community

If you’re a driven Project Manager seeking your next challenge with Wales’ leading construction business, we’d love to hear from you.

Site Manager – Prison Upgrade Scheme (Cardiff Region)

We are recruiting for an experienced Site Manager to join a major framework project delivering essential upgrades to a secure facility near Cardiff. You will report directly to the Number 1 Project Manager on site and play a key role in the safe and efficient delivery of this scheme.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join an award-winning contractor with excellent long-term career prospects and a robust pipeline of work across the region.

The Role:

• Oversee day-to-day site operations, ensuring works are delivered to programme, budget and quality standards.
• Manage subcontractors, trades and suppliers to maintain progress and resolve issues swiftly.
• Support the Project Manager with planning, reporting and stakeholder coordination.
• Champion health, safety and compliance at every stage of delivery.

About You:

• Experienced Site Manager with a proven background in main contracting.
• Exposure to secure environments or Ministry of Justice (MOJ) projects would be beneficial, but not essential.
• Strong communication and leadership skills with the ability to motivate teams and drive performance.
• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.

What’s on Offer:

• Long-term progression opportunities with a highly respected contractor.
• Chance to work on a flagship framework project with continuity of work.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

If you’re an experienced Site Manager seeking your next career move in South Wales, we’d love to hear from you.