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Job Title


Head of Design Management


Company : Hays


Location : Chelmsford, Eastern


Created : 2026-04-26


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Your new company If you would like to know a bit more about this opportunity, or are considering applying, then please read the following job information.You will be joining a highly respected Tier 1 main contractor operating within the East of England, delivering complex projects across the education, healthcare, public sector and civic markets.The business has a strong regional presence, an excellent forward order book and a collaborative reputation built on longstanding client and supplychain relationships. With a growing workload secured through key frameworks and negotiated opportunities, the company is investing in strengthening its senior leadership team.Your new role As Head of Design Management, you will lead the Design Management function for a wellestablished regional business. Reporting directly to the Area Director, you will take full responsibility for the daytoday leadership, performance and development of the design team.Your role will span preconstruction and delivery, with key responsibilities including:Leading and linemanaging Design Managers across multiple projectsResource planning, recruitment and capability development of the design functionShaping design strategy and approach during bids, PCSAs and secondstage procurementsManaging consultant engagement and design programmes through all relevant RIBA stagesPromoting strong collaboration between design, commercial, operations and SHEQ teamsEnsuring design governance, compliance, quality and risk management standards are metRepresenting the design function at senior leadership and business reviewsThis is a leadership position, combining strategic oversight with handson input where required. The role is officebased with regular site visits across the region.What you'll need to succeed You will be an experienced Senior or Principal Design Manager ready to step into a headoffunction role, or an existing Head of Design seeking a strong regional remit.Key requirements include:Significant experience working for a Tier 1 / major main contractorProven delivery across education, healthcare and public sector schemes (10m-50m+)Strong background in twostage (PCSA) design & build procurementDemonstrable leadership and linemanagement capabilityConfidence managing consultant teams and stakeholder relationshipsSound knowledge of BIM, digital design processes and sustainability, including BREEAM and embodied carbon considerationsAbility to operate effectively in both workwinning and delivery environmentsDegreelevel qualification (or equivalent) and professional membership desirableYou will be a clear communicator, comfortable operating at senior management level, and able to influence outcomes across multiple disciplines.What you'll get in return In return, you will receive:A competitive salary in line with a senior leadership roleCar allowance, bonus scheme and comprehensive benefits packageThe opportunity to sit within the Senior Management Team, influencing regional strategyA stable, growing business with a strong pipeline and repeat workA collaborative, inclusive culture that genuinely invests in its peopleThe chance to shape and develop the design function as the region continues to growThis role offers genuine long-term career progression within a highperforming regional business.What you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. xjdpvnf Hays EA is a trading division of Hays Specialist Recruitment Limited and acts as an employment agency for permanent recruitment and employment business for the supply of temporary workers. By applying for this job you accept the T&C's, Privacy Policy and Disclaimers which can be found at (url removed)