Senior Design Manager

We are seeking an experienced Senior Design Manager to lead the design delivery of a high-value, one-off luxury private residence valued at approximately £20 million. This role will be responsible for managing the full design lifecycle, from concept through to completion, ensuring the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest levels of quality and specification.

Working closely with the client, architect, consultants, and contractor teams, the successful candidate will act as the key interface for design coordination, technical assurance, and design programme management.

Key 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.

Key Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

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.

Soft Skills

Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills.

Ability to manage high expectations from private clients and design teams.

Strong leadership, organisational, and problem-solving abilities.

High attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Desirable Experience

Experience working on ultra-prime residential, listed buildings, or heritage projects.

Knowledge of bespoke interiors, artisan finishes, and specialist suppliers.

Familiarity with BIM processes and digital coordination tools.

Experience working in client-side or developer-led environments.

Reporting Line

Reports to: Project Director / Client Representative

Direct Reports: Design Coordinators / Assistant Design Managers (if applicable)

Key Success Measures

Delivery of design packages in line with programme milestones

Quality and accuracy of coordinated design information

Minimal design-related delays or cost overruns

Client satisfaction and adherence to brief

Successful integration of bespoke and high-spec elements

Working Environment

Combination of office, site-based, and client-facing meetings.

High level of confidentiality due to the nature of private residential work.