Design Manager

Atkins Search · Bristol, South Wet

Design Manager at Atkins Search, based in Bristol, South Wet, paying £60,000 - £70,000 per annum. This is a contract role.

Salary
£60,000 - £70,000 per annum
Location
Bristol, South Wet
Contract
Contract
Posted
8 hours ago
Closes
9 Oct 2026
Sector
Creative & Design

About 17% above the going rate for creative & design

Reference 3bd59ef815adecd2f93f5bfad2d002874caf3212

About the role

Overview



Atkins Search are currently recruiting for a Design Manager to join a leading Tier 1 construction contractor based in Bristol.



This is an excellent opportunity to join a market-leading business delivering some of the South West's most prestigious construction projects. With a strong pipeline of secured work, a collaborative culture and clear opportunities for career progression, you'll play a key role in shaping and delivering high-profile schemes from concept through to completion while working alongside some of the industry's leading professionals.



Client



Our client is a highly regarded national construction business with an excellent reputation for delivering complex, high-value projects across the UK. Their Southwest division continues to secure a strong pipeline of prestigious work, offering the opportunity to work on flagship schemes across a variety of sectors.



With a focus on quality, innovation and long-term client relationships, they have established themselves as one of the industry's most respected contractors. Their people-first approach, commitment to career development and collaborative culture make this an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Design Manager looking to progress their career.

Leading Tier 1 construction contractor
Prestigious projects across the Southwest
Strong, secured pipeline of work
Excellent reputation for quality and delivery
Long-standing relationships with key clients
Commitment to innovation and sustainability
Genuine career progression opportunities
Collaborative and supportive working environment
Role



As Design Manager, you will take ownership of the design process from pre-construction through to project completion, ensuring design information is delivered safely, efficiently and in line with programme requirements.



Working closely with clients, consultants, subcontractors and project teams, you will drive design coordination, manage risk and ensure projects are delivered to the highest standards.



This is an exciting opportunity to be involved in the delivery of major projects across the Southwest, working as part of an established and highly successful team.



Responsibilities

Managing relationships with clients, consultants, subcontractors and project teams to ensure successful project delivery
Leading and coordinating the design process throughout all project stages
Chairing and managing design team meetings
Managing design programmes alongside planners and project teams
Monitoring Information Release Schedules and design deliverables
Identifying and mitigating design risks while maximising project opportunities
Ensuring compliance with CDM 2015 and promoting safety in design principles
Managing the appointment and performance of external consultants
Developing consultant scopes and managing fee schedules
Coordinating statutory approvals including Planning, Building Control and BREEAM requirements
Reviewing buildability and challenging designs where required to ensure efficient construction methodologies
Managing design changes and providing commercially viable technical solutions
Undertaking site inspections to ensure completed works meet design requirements
Supporting pre-construction and bid activities with technical expertise


Person



The successful candidate will have previous Design Management experience within a main contracting environment, alongside strong technical, communication and stakeholder management skills.

Architectural, Design Management or construction-related qualification
Previous experience working for a main contractor
Experience across both pre-construction and project delivery phases
Strong knowledge of CDM 2015 and design risk management
Ability to interpret and manage design and construction programmes
Good understanding of buildability and construction sequencing
Experience managing consultant teams and external stakeholders
Commercial awareness and understanding of the design change process
Analytical and solutions-focused approach
Excellent communication skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all levels
Proactive, driven and collaborative attitude
Proficient with Microsoft Office and construction technology platforms
Remuneration



As Design Manager, you will be joining a market-leading contractor with an excellent reputation and a strong future workload. This is a fantastic opportunity to work on some of the region's most exciting projects while developing your career within a supportive environment.

Competitive salary
Company car or car allowance
Annual bonus scheme
Private healthcare
Generous pension contribution
Excellent holiday allowance
Ongoing training and professional development
Clear opportunities for career progression
Supportive, team-oriented culture
Exciting projects across the Southwest region


Atkins Search acts as an employment agency for the Built Environment including but not limited to Construction, Consultancy, Residential and Infrastructure sectors. By submitting your CV, you consent to Atkins Search processing your personal data in line with our Privacy Policy. At Atkins Search, we welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to providing equal opportunities for everyone throughout the recruitment process. Please note that any salary or benefits listed are indicative only and subject to suitability of skills and experience.

Reference: 3bd59ef815adecd2f93f5bfad2d002874caf3212 · Posted 8 hours ago · Closes 9 Oct 2026 · Listed via Atkins Search

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Salary £60,000 - £70,000 per annum
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