I'm recruiting for a Design Manager on behalf of a leading UK specialist contractor delivering complex passive fire protection and architectural solutions across commercial, healthcare, residential, and major infrastructure projects. This is a permanent position and can be based out of regional offices in the South East, Midlands and Cheshire.

This is a business that has built a strong reputation for technical excellence, compliance, and collaboration with major Tier 1 contractors and public-sector clients. They are entering a new phase of growth and investing in strengthening their pre-construction and design management function.

The Role
You'll be responsible for managing design and technical deliverables from tender through to project completion, coordinating with internal delivery teams, external design consultants, and client design managers. The position requires someone confident in leading design reviews, developing compliant solutions, and ensuring projects meet both technical and regulatory standards (including fire safety and Building Safety Act requirements).

Key Responsibilities

Manage all design and technical coordination across multiple live and tendered projects
Lead design reviews, identify risks, and propose compliant, buildable solutions
Liaise with main contractors, architects, consultants, and regulatory bodies
Oversee production of detailed design information, drawings, and technical submissions
Support estimating and pre-construction teams during bid and tender phases
Ensure compliance with FIRAS, Building Safety Act, and "Golden Thread" documentation

About You

Experience working within specialist subcontracting or construction (fire protection, faades, fit-out, or architectural packages ideal)
Proven ability to manage design information and coordinate multi-disciplinary input
Strong technical background and understanding of compliance-led environments
Confident communicator with a proactive, solution-driven approach

This would suit someone currently in a Design Manager or Senior Design Coordinator role looking to step into a business going through a growth and investment phase, where you can make a real impact on systems, delivery, and client interface.

If this sounds of interest, please apply with an updated CV.