Senior Design Manager - Erlestoke

We are looking for a Senior Design Manager to join our team on a major Ministry of Justice (MoJ) project based in Erlestoke. This is a high‑profile, complex and secure scheme, offering the opportunity to play a leading role in managing design on a nationally significant programme.

You will provide leadership across the design function, ensuring the project is delivered safely, compliantly and efficiently from pre‑construction through to completion.

What You'll Be Doing

• Leading the design management process from pre‑construction through delivery
• Managing and coordinating multidisciplinary design teams and external consultants
• Ensuring full compliance with MoJ standards, statutory legislation and security requirements
• Managing design risk, change control and interfaces across the project
• Providing technical leadership to drive quality, buildability, value and programme certainty
• Supporting bid and pre‑construction activity where required
• Working closely with construction, commercial and planning teams to ensure a seamless transition from design to delivery
• Building strong, collaborative relationships with the client and key stakeholders

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience in a Senior Design Manager role within construction or the built environment
• Strong technical understanding of the full design and construction process
• Experience working on MoJ, custodial, secure or highly regulated projects (strongly preferred)
• Confident leadership and stakeholder management skills
• A structured, proactive and solutions‑focused approach
• Ability to manage complex programmes and multiple design interfaces

Why Join Wates?

• Be part of a purpose‑led, family‑owned business with strong values
• Work on a major MoJ project with long‑term national impact
• Supportive, collaborative and inclusive working environment
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including support for project‑based working