Design Manager

Design Manager – Main Contractor | Cardiff & Vale | South Wales

Sphere Solutions are working with a well-established main contractor to recruit an experienced Design Manager to join their project delivery team in South Wales.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Design Manager with a strong main contractor background to work on a long-term pipeline of education framework projects across the Cardiff and Vale areas. Future projects will continue throughout South Wales, offering long-term stability and clear career progression.

The successful Design Manager will work closely with commercial, construction, and site teams to manage and coordinate the design process from pre-construction through to project completion. The business is known for its low staff turnover, strong leadership, and commitment to developing its people.

Role & Responsibilities:

* Managing the design process from tender through to construction and handover

* Coordinating architects, consultants, and subcontractor design packages

* Ensuring designs are compliant with client requirements, building regulations, and programme

* Supporting pre-construction, value engineering, and buildability reviews

* Working collaboratively with site, commercial, and project management teams

* Managing design risk and change control

Candidate Requirements:

* Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager with a main contractor

* Experience working on education projects and/or heritage projects advantageous

* Strong understanding of construction methodology and design coordination

* Ability to manage multiple design packages and stakeholders

* Excellent communication and organisational skills

What’s on

Offer:

* Permanent Design Manager position with a reputable main contractor

* Secure workload through long-term education frameworks

* Excellent long-term career progression opportunities

* Highly competitive salary and benefits package

* Stable employer with a strong presence across South Wales

This role would suit a Design Manager based in or around Cardiff, Vale of Glamorgan, Newport, Bridgend, or the wider South Wales region who is looking for long-term career stability with a quality main contractor.

Get in touch today for a confidential discussion