Job Description
Job Title : Design Manager (Main Contractor) – Architectural Background
Location: Glasgow
Salary: £75,000 - £90,000 + Car Allowance + Pension + Bonus DOE
Overview
A well-established and design-led main contractor is seeking a Design Manager from an architectural background to support the delivery of a broad range of high-quality projects.
Operating across new build and refurbishment schemes, this organisation has a strong reputation in commercial fit out, workplace environments, hospitality, and mission-critical infrastructure. The role will suit an individual who is confident managing design on complex, fast-paced projects, particularly where coordination and technical detail are critical.
Key Responsibilities
- Take ownership of the design management process from pre-construction through to completion
- Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring efficient and compliant delivery
- Act as the key link between client, consultants, and site delivery teams
- Manage design programmes to align with project milestones and construction timelines
- Lead design reviews, workshops, and coordination meetings
- Ensure all designs meet technical standards, regulations, and project requirements
- Identify risks, resolve design issues, and drive practical, buildable solutions
- Support value engineering and design optimisation throughout the project lifecycle
- Oversee documentation, RFIs, and technical submissions to ensure accuracy and completeness
- Provide on-site support to resolve design challenges during delivery
Project Experience
You will gain exposure to a varied and high-quality pipeline, including:
- High-end commercial office fit outs and refurbishments
- Hotel developments and interior upgrades
- Data centre / mission-critical environments
- New build and repositioning of commercial assets
Candidate Requirements
- Architectural background (qualified or with equivalent practical experience)
- Demonstrable experience in a Design Manager or Senior Design Coordinator role
- Strong understanding of design management within a main contracting environment
- Experience delivering both fit out and core construction projects
- Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and maintain programme momentum
- Strong technical awareness and focus on buildability and coordination
- Excellent communication and organisational skills
Desirable Experience
- Proven track record on complex fit out or interior-led projects
- Experience within commercial workplace or high-specification environments
- Familiarity with BIM and digital coordination tools
What’s on Offer
- Salary up to £90,000
- Car allowance
- Company pension
- Performance-related bonus
- Opportunity to work within a design-focused contractor delivering high-quality, technically detailed projects
- Clear opportunities for career development and progression
Summary
This is an opportunity to join a forward-thinking contractor known for delivering design-led, technically complex schemes, particularly within the fit-out and commercial sectors. The role would suit an architectural professional looking to play a key part in bridging design and delivery across a varied and evolving project portfolio.