Senior Design Manager

The Senior Design Manager will lead the design delivery of a luxury private residence, managing the full design lifecycle from concept to completion. They will coordinate design teams, manage design risks, and ensure high-quality standards are met throughout the project.

Responsibilities

• Design Leadership & Coordination: Lead and manage the design process across all project stages (RIBA Stages 1–7)
• Act as the primary point of contact between client, architects, consultants, and contractor teams
• Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring integration across architecture, structural, MEP, and specialist packages
• Drive design quality consistent with a high-end bespoke residential specification
• Programme & Deliverables Management: Develop, monitor, and manage the design programme in alignment with the overall project schedule
• Ensure timely production and review of design deliverables
• Identify design risks and proactively implement mitigation strategies
• Manage design changes and ensure proper documentation and approvals
• Technical Oversight: Review design information for buildability, compliance, and completeness
• Ensure designs meet planning conditions, building regulations, and client requirements
• Coordinate technical submissions, RFIs, and design approvals
• Support value engineering exercises without compromising design intent or quality
• Stakeholder Management: Build strong relationships with private client(s), often involving high levels of discretion and professionalism
• Liaise with local authorities, planning consultants, and statutory bodies where required
• Manage expectations of demanding stakeholders typical of ultra-prime residential projects
• Procurement & Construction Support: Support procurement of design packages and specialist subcontractors
• Ensure design information is aligned with procurement strategies and construction sequencing
• Provide ongoing design support during construction, including site visits and coordination meetings
• Oversee resolution of design issues arising on site
• Quality Assurance: Ensure the highest standards of design quality, detailing, and finish commensurate with a £20m private home
• Monitor compliance with employer’s requirements and design standards
• Coordinate mock-ups, samples, and approvals for bespoke elements

Requirements

• Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction-related discipline
• Extensive experience in design management within high-end residential or luxury projects
• Proven track record delivering bespoke, one-off projects (ideally £10m+ value)
• Strong understanding of RIBA Plan of Work and UK construction regulations
• Technical Skills: Excellent knowledge of architectural detailing, materials, and construction techniques
• Experience managing multidisciplinary consultant teams
• Strong understanding of design coordination tools and document control systems
• Commercial awareness, including cost implications of design decisions

Key Skills