Design Manager

Design Manager - Oxfordshire Projects (Oxford-Based Focus)

We’re working with a highly successful main contractor to appoint a Design Manager to support a growing pipeline of projects across Oxford and the surrounding area.

With a strong presence in Oxfordshire, the business delivers a diverse portfolio of Design & Build schemes (£10M–£80M), including education, commercial, and technically complex projects. Many are based in and around Oxford, offering the opportunity to work locally while contributing to high-quality, often high-profile developments.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Design Manager looking to take ownership of projects, influence design outcomes, and play a key role in a collaborative, forward-thinking team.

The Role

You’ll be involved from an early stage, helping to shape projects through pre-construction and leading design delivery through to completion.

Key responsibilities include:

* Supporting pre-construction activities, including value engineering and design input

* Leading and coordinating design teams through RIBA stages 4 and 5

* Acting as a key link between design, commercial, and site teams

* Managing design programmes to support procurement and construction timelines

* Driving design solutions that balance quality, cost, and programme

* Ensuring clear communication and information flow across all stakeholders

* Contributing commercial awareness to strengthen project outcomes and margins

About You

* Proven experience as a Design Coordinator or Design Manager on Design & Build projects (£10M+)

* Strong leadership and coordination skills, with the confidence to influence multidisciplinary teams

* Solid understanding of design management, risk, and project delivery processes

* Experience across sectors such as education, commercial, or similarly complex environments

* Relevant qualification (HNC/HND/Degree in Construction, Architecture, or similar)

* Full UK driving licence

Why Join?

This is a business with a strong pipeline of secured work across Oxfordshire and a growing reputation for delivering quality projects and maintaining long-term client relationships.

You’ll benefit from:

* The opportunity to work on projects local to Oxford, supporting work-life balance

* A collaborative and well-supported team environment

* Clear opportunities for career progression as the business continues to grow

* Exposure to a varied and interesting project portfolio

Package includes:

* Competitive salary (dependent on experience)

* Car or car allowance

* Healthcare

* Pension

* Bonus scheme

* 25 days holiday (increasing with service)

Next Steps

This is a key hire within a growing team, and interviews are being arranged shortly.

If you’re looking for a role where you can make a genuine impact while working on high-quality projects close to home, we’d be keen to speak with you