About this Role:

Ambitious/experienced Design Manager required by the Southampton office of this busy Tier 1 National Main Contractor to take the lead and manage the design process for a new build DfE Secondary school project in Fareham, Hampshire - circa £30m in value.

Initially based in the Southampton office, as Design Manager you will be involved initially in the preconstruction phase for the scheme which is due to commence on site in spring of 2025, responsible for the detailed design development; Thereafter you will be based on site with the team throughout the delivery phase.

This is a new build scheme on the DfE framework - client engagement and design development has been well looked after by an experienced SDM to date with a positive client relationship established.

Duties will include:

Management of the design development for projects, packages and sections of works;
Management of consultant design team; Chairing regular design team meetings;
Regular liaison with key clients, trusts and end users / heads of department;
Engagement with and managing specialist sub-contractor design teams;
Agreement of information required schedule; Ensuring key dates achieved;
Dealing with local authorities to achieve planning permissions;
Review of construction design information for buildability, compliance with contractors proposals, employers requirements, budget, current building legislation, etc;
Identifying opportunities for value engineering where appropriate;
Proactive issue resolution;
Overall managing the smooth and timely delivery of detailed design information for procurement and construction throughout the preconstruction and build process.

About the Company/Client/Project:

The company is the busy Southern Regional office of a national main contractor, with experience and a proven track record in the delivery of new build and refurbishment schemes in primary and secondary education, healthcare, defence, commercial offices, local authority, higher education faculty buildings, etc predominantly in the Hampshire and Dorset areas.

Turnover is circa £130m for the office which is located in Southampton with easy access from the M27 / M3.

Requirements including certificates and qualifications:

Either from an Engineering/Construction delivery or Architectural background, you will possess excellent technical and commercial knowledge, a keen understanding of construction methodology, materials and systems, procurement lead in times, etc.

Previous education sector experience is highly desirable for this particular role, as is a reasonable level of preconstruction and a practical understanding of the Department for Education framework. Experience of other public sector frameworks would also be useful.

You will have excellent communication and negotiations skills, strong planning and problem solving ability, initiative and a positive approach. In terms of character, you will be a highly driven, positive and ambitious individual able to work well within a large team dynamic.

You will ideally have a proven track record of successful project delivery with a recognised Main Contractor in a Design Coordination / Design Management role.

High standards, attention to detail and the drive to deliver on programme, specification and budget will be very well rewarded with excellent salary, benefits, promotional and development prospects.

For more information on this contract please contact Martin Olney on (phone number removed) or send your CV to

Candidates must be able to prove their eligibility to work in the UK