Design Manager

t Equans, we’re delivering some of the UK’s most complex refurbishment, fire remediation, and re-cladding projects — and we’re looking for a Design Manager to play a key role in shaping safe, compliant, and high-quality buildings. This is an exciting opportunity to lead design from pre-construction through to delivery on high-value refurbishment projects, including Higher-Risk Buildings (HRBs), working closely with clients, consultants, and internal teams. What you’ll be doing * Leading the design process from tender stage through to construction, taking full technical responsibility for allocated projects* Managing consultant and surveyor procurement, appointments, and performance* Reviewing Employer’s Requirements and contributing to Contractor’s Proposals* Carrying out design risk appraisals to support successful tenders* Developing and managing detailed design and pre-construction programmes* Chairing design team meetings and leading client design workshops and presentations* Ensuring design solutions are compliant, buildable, cost-effective, and meet all statutory and contractual requirements* Working closely with Commercial, Pre-Construction, and Delivery teams to resolve design and technical queries* Managing design change control and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality information* Supporting compliance with the Building Safety Act, Building Regulations, warranties, and planning conditions* Collaborating with the Principal Designer (BR) to meet statutory duties* Supporting and mentoring Design Coordinators and contributing to team development* Driving continuous improvement, digital adoption, and BIM best practice within the design function What we’re looking for Essential * Proven experience leading design on refurbishment or complex construction projects* Strong understanding of construction forms and detailing (RC, steel, timber, masonry)* Experience supporting single and two-stage tender processes* Working knowledge of JCT, NEC, and PPC contracts* Ability to programme design works using Asta Powerproject or MS Project* Strong stakeholder management and communication skills* Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities* Knowledge of statutory compliance, building legislation, and industry standards* Experience using Common Data Environments and digital design tools Qualifications * Degree or equivalent qualification in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or similar Desirable * Experience on Higher-Risk Buildings, fire remediation, or re-cladding projects* Membership of a professional body (CIOB, RICS, RIBA, ICE)* BIM, project management, or health & safety certifications Why Equans? * Work on technically challenging, meaningful projects that improve safety and communities* Clear progression and development pathways* Supportive, collaborative culture with a strong focus on wellbeing* Commitment to innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability Equans is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and are happy to discuss flexible working arrangements.