Design Manager - Step-Up Opportunity

Job Title: Design Manager (Step-Up Opportunity for Assistant Design Managers) Location: Exeter, Devon / South West England (Hybrid – 1 Day WFH) Salary: £55,000 – £65,000 per annum + Package Contract Type: Permanent

Ready to take the step up to Design Manager?

We are currently working with a leading Tier 1 main contractor who is looking for an ambitious Design Manager to join their South West regional team, based out of their Exeter office.

This is an ideal opportunity for an experienced Assistant Design Manager who feels ready to take ownership of their own projects, lead the design process, and progress their career with a business that genuinely invests in its people.

Why join this contractor?

• A Launchpad for Your Career: Our client has a fantastic reputation for developing talent from within. You will be joining a supportive, collaborative environment where experienced senior leaders actively mentor and guide developing staff, giving you the backing you need to succeed in your first Design Manager role.

• Future-Proof Pipeline: Secured on a wide range of major public and private sector frameworks, this contractor boasts a busy, long-term order book across the South West. You will enjoy genuine job security and protection against market volatility.

• Clear Progression: With structured development plans and a strong regional presence, there is plenty of scope to advance your career further once established.

• Work-Life Balance: The role offers flexible working arrangements, including 1 day per week working from home alongside time in the Exeter office and on regional sites.

The Role

As Design Manager, you will be responsible for managing the design process from pre-construction through to handover across a variety of exciting building projects in the South West. You will coordinate external consultants, manage design programmes, ensure compliance with building regulations and client requirements, and drive value engineering solutions.

What we are looking for:

• Experience working in a Design Management capacity (such as an Assistant Design Manager or Design Coordinator) for a main contractor, specialist sub-contractor, or consultancy.

• A strong understanding of the construction process, design programmes, and technical coordination.

• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to manage stakeholders, chair design team meetings, and build strong relationships with clients and consultants.

• A proactive attitude and a desire to step up, take responsibility, and grow within a Tier 1 environment.

Start Date: Our client is ideally looking for someone to start as soon as possible, though they are very happy to wait for the right person up to a 3-month notice period.

How to Apply: If you are an Assistant Design Manager looking for that next step, or an established Design Manager seeking a secure, supportive Tier 1 contractor, we would love to hear from you. Click Apply Now to submit your CV for a confidential discussion