Job Title: Design Manager (DfE Projects)

Location: London, UK

Company: Main Contractor (London-Based)

Experience Required: Minimum 5 Years

About the Role

I am looking to speak with experienced Design Manager to join a growing team in London, working for a well-established main contractors delivering projects across the education sector.

The successful candidate will play a key role in managing and coordinating the design process across Department for Education (DfE) projects, ensuring design quality, programme alignment, and successful project delivery.

This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive individual who has experience leading design teams and managing complex project stages from concept through to completion. Senior Architects with relevant project leadership experience are also encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the design process from pre-construction through to project completion.
• Coordinate architects, consultants, and subcontractors to ensure design information is delivered on time and to the required quality.
• Ensure compliance with DfE standards and guidelines where applicable.
• Manage design risk, change control, and technical queries throughout the project lifecycle.
• Work closely with project managers, commercial teams, and site teams to ensure design solutions align with programme, cost, and buildability requirements.
• Review and manage design documentation, drawings, and technical submissions.
• Support project delivery by driving design coordination meetings and resolving technical issues.
• Ensure that design outputs meet regulatory, safety, and client requirements.

Key Requirements

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a Design Manager or similar role within construction, architecture, or consultancy.
• Experience working on Department for Education (DfE) projects or within the education sector is highly desirable.
• Proven experience leading or delivering at least one full project from design through to completion.
• Strong understanding of design coordination within a main contractor environment.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to manage multiple consultants and maintain programme deadlines.

Ideal Background

• Design Managers currently working for a main contractor.
• Senior Architects looking to transition into a Design Manager role with demonstrated experience leading projects.
• Individuals with strong technical knowledge and experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile education and public sector projects.
• Career development within a growing contractor.
• Collaborative and supportive working environment.