Design Manager - Cladding and Facades

Design Manager Cladding & Façades

Winsearch is proud to partner with a growing façade contractor based in the Manchester area, which is looking to bring in a Design Manager to take a central role across their projects.

This isn’t your typical Design Manager position. It’s a broader, more hands-on role where you’ll be involved across design, delivery, and commercial so it's ideal for someone who wants real ownership and influence rather than sitting in a silo.

My client specialises in cladding, remediation, and building envelope works, including rainscreen systems, render and EWI, and fire safety upgrades on high-rise projects. They work closely with main contractors, consultants, and regulators, delivering technically complex schemes across the UK. 

The role:

This is a hybrid position where you’ll sit at the centre of the project lifecycle.

You’ll lead design coordination, but you’ll also be expected to get involved in project delivery and commercial aspects- effectively acting as a key link between design, site, and commercial teams.

If you’ve ever felt boxed in by a narrow role, this is the opposite of that.

• Leading façade design coordination from pre-construction through to delivery
• Managing external designers, consultants, and system suppliers
• Reviewing technical drawings, specifications, and ensuring compliance
• Supporting project delivery alongside site teams and acting as a key technical contact
• Working closely with clients, contractors, and stakeholders
• Getting involved in commercial aspects — variations, cost tracking, and project budgets
• Helping to ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and to a high standard

What they're looking for:

• Strong experience within façades, cladding, or the wider building envelope sector
• Background as a Design Manager, Project Manager, or Senior Designer
• Good technical knowledge of systems such as rainscreen cladding, EWI, or remediation works
• Commercial awareness and some exposure to QS duties (or willingness to get involved)
• Comfortable working across both office and site environments
• Able to operate independently in a growing, fast-moving business

The type of person who'll do well: 

• Someone who enjoys variety and isn’t looking for a narrow role
• A practical thinker who understands how designs translate to site
• Comfortable taking ownership and being relied upon across projects
• Someone who thrives in an SME environment rather than a heavily structured corporate
• Confident dealing with clients and managing multiple responsibilities

What's in it for you:

• A high-impact role within a growing contractor
• Real ownership across projects and the chance to shape delivery
• Strong pipeline of remediation and safety-driven work
• Long-term progression as the business continues to grow

This is a genuinely interesting role for someone who wants to do more than just "design". It's a chance to step into a central position within a business where you'll have real influence. 

If you're open to hearing more or want to explore if this could be a good fit, get in touch for a confidential chat. 

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