Principal Design Manager

Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Design in communicating design management expectations to the team.
• Drive understanding of company strategies and policies and their implementation on projects.
• Assist in finding and winning new work.
• Oversee projects designed to a high standard, using innovative and sustainable technologies, delivered on time and to budget.
• Lead a team of design managers, including trainees, ensuring they meet role requirements and have development opportunities.
• Review, monitor and report on the agreed design strategy, achieving Willmott Dixon’s definition of design complete before main contract signing.
• Review project compliance with local construction offices, group, industry and statutory standards and policies, reporting on targets achieved and key risks.
• Ensure consistency in the timing and quality of deliverables from external teams at each RIBA stage, with clear accountability for each team member.
• Identify areas for design improvement beyond day‑to‑day project delivery or team management, supporting the Head of Design in their implementation.
• Actively engage in building the wider development of design management discipline and team.
• Play a part in delivering the project’s sustainability and social‑value commitments.

Qualifications and Experience

• Proven experience in design management within the construction industry, focused on complex projects across multiple sectors.
• Skills in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, Project), Bluebeam, 3D model review and CDE platforms (Dalux and Viewpoint preferred).
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and build consensus.
• Ability to self‑reflect and use that insight to enhance leadership and communication.
• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, construction management or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Professional certifications or memberships in relevant industry associations desirable.
• Valid driving licence and appropriate CSCS card.

Benefits

Competitive salary and a market‑leading benefits package, including an enhanced pension scheme, discounted or full private medical, life assurance, incentive bonus and a car scheme supporting sustainable travel. Flexible benefits available to fit individual lifestyle and priorities, and a supportive, inclusive working environment.

#J-18808-Ljbffr…