Design Manager - Facades

Job Description:

Job Title: Design Manager
Salary: £55,000 – £75,000 per annum (depending on experience)
Location: Nottingham (Hybrid working – 2–3 days per week in the office)

About the Role
Our client, a well-established specialist in aluminium curtain walling, glazing, and window and door systems, is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead their in-house design department.

Reporting directly to the Managing Director and working closely with the Operations Manager, the successful candidate will manage a team of 10 designers responsible for delivering high-quality technical design solutions across commercial and residential façade projects valued up to £5 million.

This is a pivotal role within the business — ideal for a technically skilled leader who can combine hands-on design management with strategic input to help drive operational efficiency and business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of 10 designers, promoting collaboration, innovation, and accountability.

• Oversee design and technical delivery across multiple aluminium curtain walling, glazing, and window & door projects.

• Work closely with the Managing Director and Operations Manager to identify process improvements and support strategic business initiatives.

• Coordinate design activity between internal teams, clients, contractors, and suppliers to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Review and approve technical drawings, specifications, and calculations in line with system supplier requirements and building regulations.

• Manage design resources, workflows, and priorities to meet deadlines and maintain quality.

• Support pre-construction, estimating, and value engineering where required.

• Keep abreast of new materials, technologies, and regulations relevant to the façade and glazing industry.

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in a Design Manager or Senior Design role within the façade, glazing, or aluminium systems industry.

• Strong technical knowledge of aluminium curtain walling, window, door, and façade systems.

• Experience managing projects up to £5m in value.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

• Commercially astute, with the ability to contribute to wider business objectives.

• Proficient in relevant design software (AutoCAD, Revit, or similar).

• In-depth understanding of applicable building regulations and industry standards.

Benefits

• Salary £55,000 – £75,000 DOE

• Hybrid working (2–3 days per week in the office)

• Pension scheme

• Professional development and career progression opportunities

• Supportive, collaborative working environment