Design Manager

We are supporting one of the UK''s most respected main contractors, a business with a strong track record of delivering high-profile projects across education, healthcare, residential, and commercial sectors. Known for their collaborative approach, technical excellence, and ability to deliver on fast-track schemes, they are now looking to appoint an experienced Design Manager to oversee a flagship education project in Cleckheaton, Leeds.

This role will see you take the lead on a -10m new-build school development. It''s a scheme that requires careful coordination of multiple stakeholders, with a fast-paced programme and an emphasis on buildability and cost certainty. You will play a central role in ensuring that the design process runs smoothly, risks are proactively managed, and information is delivered accurately and on time to support successful project delivery.

As Design Manager, you will act as the key link between the pre-construction and construction phases, managing all design information and ensuring alignment with client requirements. You''ll work hand-in-hand with architects, engineers, consultants, and the site delivery team, providing technical guidance, leadership, and assurance at every stage.

• Take ownership of the full design management process from tender through to completion

• Coordinate and manage the flow of design information between consultants, supply chain, and site teams

• Ensure designs are fully compliant with statutory requirements, building regulations, and client specifications

• Chair design team meetings and drive timely issue resolution

• Support value engineering and buildability reviews to maintain programme and budget

• Identify design risks and implement effective mitigation strategies

• Provide technical input and ensure robust quality assurance throughout the project lifecycle

• Ideally degree-qualified in engineering or a related technical discipline (though candidates from an architectural background with strong contractor-side design management experience will be considered)

• Proven track record of delivering design management on education or major building projects (-5m+)

• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to challenge and influence where necessary

• Strong technical knowledge and understanding of construction methods, building regs, and compliance

• Confident in a site-based role, working closely with operational teams

• Freelance position | Outside IR35

• -350 per day

• Initial 12-month contract, highly likely to extend to 18 months

• Site-based in Cleckheaton, Leeds