Position: Freelance Design Manager, Exeter (hybrid)

Rate: circa £300-£350 a day

Duration: 6 months

Role: Freelance Design Manager required for a regional main contractor based in Exeter. To oversee pre-construction, design management of two tenders circa £3m in value. As well as provide Design Management to a live £2m new build eco project.

As Design Manager, you will play a pivotal role in coordinating the design process from pre‑construction through to project completion. You will ensure that design information is delivered on time, meets the project brief, and complies with relevant regulations and contractual requirements.

Key Responsibilities

* Manage the design development process on multiple projects, from tender stage through to site delivery.

* Coordinate with architects, consultants, structural engineers, and subcontractors to produce fully coordinated working drawings.

* Lead design meetings and workshops, ensuring clear communication across all stakeholders.

* Identify design risks and propose robust technical solutions.

* Review and interrogate drawings, specifications, and reports.

* Ensure design information is compliant with building regulations, planning conditions, client requirements, and industry standards.

* Support site teams with technical queries and design‑related challenges during construction.

* Manage the design programme, ensuring timely information release to avoid impacting build progress.

About You

* Proven experience as a Design Manager (or Senior Design Coordinator ready to step up) within a main contractingenvironment.

* Strong knowledge of both new build and refurbishment methodologies.

* Excellent understanding of construction technology, building regs, and design coordination.

* Ability to lead multiple design disciplines effectively.

* Strong communication, problem‑solving, and organisational skills.

* Proficient with digital design tools and common construction software (e.g., BIM-related platforms)