Principal Design Manager

We are looking to appoint a Principal Design Manager to join our team, supporting the delivery of a major construction project in the Northern Home Counties.

This is a senior leadership role within the project, responsible for setting the direction of the design management function and ensuring the successful coordination, integration and delivery of design across all stages. You will play a critical role in driving quality, buildability, compliance and value throughout the project lifecycle.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading the design management strategy from pre‑construction through to completion
• Providing leadership and direction to Design Managers and wider project teams
• Managing multidisciplinary design teams and external consultants
• Ensuring designs meet all statutory, contractual and project requirements
• Driving design quality, buildability, sustainability and programme efficiency
• Managing design risk, interfaces and change across complex project environments
• Supporting bid and pre‑construction activity where required
• Building strong relationships with clients, stakeholders and supply chain partners

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience operating at Principal or Senior Design Manager level within construction or the built environment
• Strong track record delivering major and complex construction projects
• Excellent technical understanding across the design and construction process
• Strong leadership and stakeholder management capability
• Experience managing large, multidisciplinary teams and complex design interfaces
• A strategic, proactive and solutions‑focused approach

Why Join Wates?

• Play a leading role on a major, high‑profile project
• Be part of a collaborative and high‑performing team
• Opportunity to influence project outcomes at a strategic level
• Clear career progression within a growing regional portfolio
• Competitive salary and benefits package, with flexibility where possible