Design Manager - DFE

Our client is an award-winning national main contractor with operations across the UK, delivering high-quality projects across the commercial, residential, industrial and mixed-use sectors. Due to continued growth and a strategic expansion into the Department for Education (DfE) sector, they have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Design Manager to join their Midlands division. This is a fantastic opportunity to play a key role in establishing and growing the business's presence within the education sector, supporting the delivery of high-profile DfE projects from pre-construction through to successful completion. Key Responsibilities Manage the design process from tender stage through to project completion. Develop and implement project-specific Design Management Plans in line with company procedures. Coordinate the appointment, management and performance of consultants and external design teams. Ensure design proposals meet client expectations, statutory requirements, programme objectives and commercial targets. Review design information to ensure buildability, compliance and value engineering opportunities are maximised. Chair and participate in design team meetings, maintaining effective communication between all project stakeholders. Assist in managing design risk through regular reviews, workshops and project risk registers. Oversee the Request for Information (RFI) process and technical document control procedures. Develop and maintain detailed design programmes, ensuring key milestones are achieved. Work collaboratively with commercial and construction teams to manage design changes and project risks. Maintain alignment with project cost plans throughout the design development process. Support design verification and technical approval processes. Mentor and support Design Coordinators and Document Controllers where applicable. Coordinate the production of Health & Safety Files, Operation & Maintenance Manuals and project handover documentation. Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants and the wider project team.Education, Skills & Experience Degree qualified in Architecture, Construction Management, Engineering or a related discipline. Professional membership such as MCIOB, RIBA, CIBSE or IET (desirable). Valid CSCS Card. Proven experience in Design Management within a Tier 1 or leading Tier 2 Main Contractor. Experience working on projects with construction values ranging from £5m - £50m. Strong understanding of current procurement routes and construction methodologies. Good knowledge of BIM and digital construction processes. Commercial awareness with the ability to balance quality, programme and cost. Excellent communication, stakeholder management and organisational skills. Experience coordinating multidisciplinary design teams across various stages of the project lifecycle.What's on Offer Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Car allowance or company vehicle. Pension scheme. Private healthcare. Ongoing professional development and training. Clear career progression within a nationally recognised contractor