Design Manager

Design Manager – MOD / Defence Projects

Security Clearance Required

Deliver with structure. Coordinate with precision. Grow into leadership.

We are looking for a Design Manager to support the delivery of design across MOD / defence sector projects, ensuring high-quality, compliant, and coordinated solutions from inception through to completion.

This role sits at the heart of project delivery — working across teams, managing consultants, and ensuring design aligns with programme, cost, and operational requirements.

The Role

• Manage the design process across live MOD / defence projects
• Coordinate internal teams and external consultants
• Ensure design outputs meet client requirements, programme, and compliance standards
• Support the delivery of design from concept through to construction
• Monitor design progress and ensure key milestones are achieved
• Maintain control of design information and documentation
• Ensure compliance with all relevant legislation, standards, and MOD requirements
• Identify and support the management of design risks
• Work closely with commercial and operational teams to ensure alignment
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders

What We’re Looking For

• Experience as a Design Manager or Assistant Design Manager within a main contractor environment
• Exposure to MOD / defence projects (preferred)
• Security clearance (SC level) or ability to obtain clearance is required
• Understanding of the design process and project lifecycle
• Knowledge of the RIBA Plan of Work
• Good technical awareness across construction disciplines
• Strong organisational and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and priorities

Why This Role

This is an opportunity to step into a role where you are central to delivery —
not just supporting design, but owning parts of it.

You’ll be working in a structured, high-trust environment where:

• Detail matters
• Process matters
• And your ability to coordinate and deliver will define success

And here’s the real distinction — feel this:

A Senior Design Manager sets the direction.
A Design Manager makes it happen.

This role is for someone right on that edge…
ready to step up, take more ownership, and grow into leadership.