Design Manager

The Design Manager is responsible for leading and managing the design process on construction projects from pre-construction through to completion. The role ensures that all design information is coordinated, issued on time, compliant with statutory and safety requirements, and communicated effectively to all relevant stakeholders. Working closely with clients, consultants, and internal project teams, the Senior Design Manager plays a key role in mitigating design risk and supporting the successful delivery of high-quality, sustainable projects.

Key Activities

Design Management & Coordination

• Manage the full design process throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring drawings and design information are developed, reviewed, approved, and issued in line with the project programme.
• Review designs for buildability, coordination, compliance, and risk, ensuring they are suitable for construction.
• Ensure all design information is made available to the appropriate project teams in a timely and controlled manner.
• Maintain accurate design records, trackers, and document control systems throughout the project.

Client & Stakeholder Liaison

• Act as the main point of contact for clients on all design-related matters.
• Liaise with architects, engineers, consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams to ensure alignment and clarity on design requirements.
• Establish and maintain effective communication methods between all parties involved in the design process.

Risk, Compliance & Quality

• Identify, assess, and manage risks associated with design, including coordination clashes, programme risks, and construction impacts.
• Ensure all designs comply with health and safety legislation, including duties under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations.
• Ensure design work meets relevant building regulations, industry codes of practice, and sustainability standards
• Support the preparation and maintenance of design risk assessments and design-related safety documentation.

Team Leadership & Meetings

• Lead and manage the design function providing clear direction, support, and accountability.
• Chair design team meetings, design workshops, and coordination meetings.
• Prepare design reports, progress updates, and presentations for clients and senior management.
• Support and mentor junior design or project team members where required

Competencies

• Strong knowledge of construction design processes and project delivery.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple design interfaces and deadlines.
• Strong attention to detail with a structured, methodical approach.
• Ability to identify and mitigate risk proactively.
• Confident chairing meetings and presenting to clients and senior stakeholders.

Education & Experience

• Degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a related discipline.
• Significant experience in a Design Manager or Senior Design role within the construction industry.
• Strong understanding of Irish building regulations, health & safety legislation, and sustainable building standards.
• Experience working on complex, multi-disciplinary construction projects.

Benefits

• 21 days annual leave, with additional days accrued for long service
• Company pension scheme
• Laptop and mobile phone supplied
• Company sick pay scheme
• Statutory and enhanced maternity and paternity pay
• Wedding leave
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Comprehensive training and development opportunities, including CPD and instructor training
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for confidential support
• Regular company social events and wellbeing initiatives