Associate Director. CDM Principal Designer Services

OverviewAssociate Director - CDM / Construction Safety

Location: Flexible Hybrid (North West HQ 2 days/week)

Salary: £80,000-£90,000 + £8,500 Car Allowance + Pension + Private Health + Life Insurance

Progression: Clear path to Director-level

An award-winning consultancy dedicated exclusively to the construction safety sector is seeking an experienced Associate Director to join their growing team. With a business unit turnover exceeding £3m and a strong team of 12+ CDM Principal Designers as part of the larger business, this is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in leading and shaping the business.

The company specialises in:

Construction Health and Safety

CDM 2015 Principal Designer Services

Building Regulations Principal Designer

Related advisory services

The RoleAs Associate Director, you will report directly to the Board and take full leadership of a dedicated business unit, overseeing project delivery, team performance, and client relationships. You will lead the delivery of CDM Principal Designer services across a broad and varied project portfolio—ensuring safety and compliance are embedded throughout the design and construction process.

This is a senior leadership position, requiring strategic insight, operational excellence, and a strong technical background in CDM 2015 regulations.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the Principal Designer function across all projects, ensuring full compliance with CDM 2015 and relevant legislation.

Act as the key contact and advisor for CDM-related guidance to clients, designers, contractors, and internal teams.

Develop and implement CDM strategies and risk management procedures throughout the project lifecycle.

Oversee the preparation and review of Pre-Construction Information and Health and Safety Files.

Chair design risk reviews and workshops—championing a safety-first approach throughout project development.

Lead, mentor, and develop a growing team of CDM professionals, promoting excellence and consistency.

Support business growth by preparing and delivering impactful sales presentations, bids, and fee proposals. This is supported by the Bid, tech and marketing team.

Enhance company visibility by delivering training sessions and engaging with third-party stakeholders.

Attend and represent the business at face-to-face client and supplier meetings.

Continuously improve the delivery and efficiency of CDM and Principal Designer services.

Experience and Background

Proven experience as a Principal Designer under CDM 2015, ideally from a consultancy or client-side environment.

In-depth knowledge of health and safety legislation across the construction and development sectors.

Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

Excellent stakeholder engagement and client-facing skills.

Qualifications

Degree or Diploma in a relevant field such as Health and Safety, Construction, or Design (preferred).

Chartered or Incorporated membership of a professional body such as IOSH, APS, RICS, or CIOB (preferred).

What’s on Offer

Competitive salary of £80,000-£90,000

£8,500 car allowance

Pension, Private Healthcare, Life Insurance, and additional benefits

Flexible hybrid working model (2 days per week in North West HQ)

A clear and supported development pathway to Director-level

This is a rare opportunity to join a respected, specialist consultancy where your leadership will shape the future of CDM and construction safety delivery across the ..... full job details .....