Senior Design Manager
CV-LibraryDurham, County DurhampermanentPosted: 5 October 2026
Apply NowElvet Recruiment are seeking a Senior Design Manager to join leading UK main contractor to oversee design delivery on projects across the North East, typically valued between £2m–£40m. You’ll lead the design process from tender through construction, ensuring solutions are compliant, buildable and aligned with programme and commercial objectives.
Key Responsibilities
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Manage the design function across multiple projects and frameworks.
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Develop design strategies that drive innovation, value and buildability.
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Lead design reviews, workshops and stakeholder engagement.
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Oversee design governance, risk management and value engineering.
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Support pre‑construction activities including bids, technical submissions and tender interviews.
About You
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Strong experience in design management within a main contractor.
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Background across healthcare, education, commercial or public‑sector projects.
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Excellent technical knowledge (architecture, structures, MEP) and understanding of Building Regulations and CDM.
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Confident leader with strong communication, stakeholder and team‑development skills.
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Degree/HNC in a construction discipline preferred; professional membership advantageous.
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CSCS card and full UK driving licence required.
Benefits
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Up to £80k + car/car allowance
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26 days holiday (buy/sell options)
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Private medical insurance
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Pension matched up to 8%
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Enhanced family leave
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Flexible/agile working
*
Professional memberships paid
By applying for this job you accept the T&Cs, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found on our website
For more information, please contact George French at Elvet Recruitment
Key Responsibilities
*
Manage the design function across multiple projects and frameworks.
*
Develop design strategies that drive innovation, value and buildability.
*
Lead design reviews, workshops and stakeholder engagement.
*
Oversee design governance, risk management and value engineering.
*
Support pre‑construction activities including bids, technical submissions and tender interviews.
About You
*
Strong experience in design management within a main contractor.
*
Background across healthcare, education, commercial or public‑sector projects.
*
Excellent technical knowledge (architecture, structures, MEP) and understanding of Building Regulations and CDM.
*
Confident leader with strong communication, stakeholder and team‑development skills.
*
Degree/HNC in a construction discipline preferred; professional membership advantageous.
*
CSCS card and full UK driving licence required.
Benefits
*
Up to £80k + car/car allowance
*
26 days holiday (buy/sell options)
*
Private medical insurance
*
Pension matched up to 8%
*
Enhanced family leave
*
Flexible/agile working
*
Professional memberships paid
By applying for this job you accept the T&Cs, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found on our website
For more information, please contact George French at Elvet Recruitment