Design Manager

Job Description:

Design Manager

Location: Leicester

Department: Design and Technical

Contract: Permanent | Full Time

We are representing a 5* Housebuilder, who have an exciting opportunity for a Design Manager to join their East Midlands Division, based in Leicester, and play a central role in how we design and deliver thriving new communities.

The Role

As a Design Manager, you will be a key member of the Technical team, responsible for the architectural and planning aspects of several developments from concept through to start on site. You'll coordinate layouts, manage consultants, ensure compliance with regulations, and help shape the vision for new communities across the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on planning and development functions across multiple sites

   

• Appoint and manage external consultants for reports such as landscaping, ecology, archaeology, air quality and noise

   

• Review development proposals and site information, supporting with technical reports in collaboration with engineering colleagues

   

• Oversee all drawing and specification preparation required for site start

   

• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of planning applications and building regulations submissions

   

• Coordinate with the Commercial team on budgets, viabilities and cost plans

   

• Review and manage evolving house types and layouts, acting as regional design custodian

   

• Build strong working relationships with internal teams, site staff, and local authorities to ensure smooth approvals and consistent delivery

   

• Provide design input across key project stages-from viability and planning through to pre-start

   

What We're Looking For

Experience & Qualifications:

• Strong working knowledge of the UK planning system and building regulations

   

• Background in residential development or architectural practice

   

• Proficiency in CAD and layout design

   

• HND (or equivalent) in a relevant built environment subject

   

Skills & Attributes:

• Excellent communication, coordination, and organisation skills

   

• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks

   

• Effective under pressure and committed to meeting deadlines

   

• Team player with a proactive, solutions-focused approach

   

• Strong IT skills including Microsoft Office

   

• A commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

   

Working Conditions

• Flexibility to travel to development sites across the region as required

   

• Willingness to adapt to changing project needs and workloads

   

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and annual bonus

   

• Contributory pension scheme

   

• 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays)

   

• Life assurance

   

• Holiday Purchase Scheme

   

• ShareSave Scheme

   

• Cycle to Work Scheme

   

• Access to employee discounts and benefits portal

   

• Opportunities for continued learning and development