Senior Design Lead (Facades)

Job Description:

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced and technically strong Façade Design Lead to oversee the design, coordination, and technical delivery of façade systems across multiple UK projects. This role combines hands-on detailed design with leadership responsibilities, ensuring high-quality façade solutions from concept through to construction.

Key Responsibilities

Design Leadership

• Lead the design of façade systems including glazing, cladding, curtain walling, and specialist envelope solutions.
• Set and maintain design standards, ensuring technical excellence and compliance with regulations.
• Coordinate design packages, drawings, and calculations across multiple project phases.

Technical Delivery

• Produce and review detailed drawings, models, specifications, and design reports.
• Ensure compliance with UK Building Regulations, CWCT standards, fire regulations, thermal requirements, structural considerations, and acoustic performance.
• Provide solutions to complex façade engineering challenges and ensure buildability on site.

Project Coordination

• Act as the key technical interface between architects, consultants, main contractors, and internal teams.
• Participate in design workshops, technical meetings, and site coordination sessions.
• Support tenders and pre-construction activities with technical insights and value-engineering options.

Team Support & Development

• Mentor junior designers and engineers, providing guidance on best practices and technical development.
• Support the Design Manager/Head of Design on strategic initiatives and team processes.
• Promote a collaborative and proactive design culture.

Quality & Risk Management

• Review and approve design output to ensure accuracy and alignment with project requirements.
• Identify design risks early and propose mitigation strategies.
• Ensure proper documentation and adherence to QA/QC procedures.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Façade Engineering, Architecture, Civil/Structural Engineering, or similar.
• 7+ years’ experience in façade design within the UK market.
• Strong knowledge of curtain walling, rainscreen cladding, unitised façades, and associated systems.
• Proven experience working with UK Building Regulations, CWCT, fire requirements, and performance standards.
• Proficiency in relevant design software: AutoCAD, Revit, Rhino, SolidWorks, or similar.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to balance multiple projects and deadlines with high attention to detail.

What They Offer

• Competitive salary + benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on landmark projects across the UK.
• A supportive environment with career progression into Design Manager or Technical Lead roles.
• Exposure to innovative façade systems and cutting-edge design tools.