Freelance Design Manager

Location: North East England

Duration: 12–13 Month Contract 

Rate: Competitive Day Rate (DOE)

Sector: Main Contracting

Employer: Tier 1 Contractor

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Freelance Design Manager to join a leading Tier 1 contractor on a 12–13 month maternity cover assignment in the North East.

This is an excellent opportunity to become part of an established project team, supporting the successful delivery of a major scheme and managing the design process from pre-construction through to project completion.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing the design process throughout all stages of the project lifecycle.
• Coordinating external consultants, specialist subcontractors and internal project teams.
• Reviewing design information to ensure buildability, quality and compliance with Employer's Requirements.
• Monitoring design progress against programme milestones and mitigating design-related risks.
• Chairing design team meetings and driving actions to completion.
• Managing RFIs, technical submissions, design changes and approvals.
• Working closely with commercial, planning and site teams to support efficient project delivery.
• Ensuring all design information complies with statutory requirements, Building Regulations and client specifications.

Candidate Requirements

• Previous experience working as a Design Manager for a Tier 1 or large regional contractor.
• Demonstrable track record delivering major construction projects.
• Strong understanding of construction methodologies, design coordination and procurement processes.
• Excellent communication, organisational and stakeholder management skills.
• Degree qualified in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management or a related discipline is advantageous.