Job Title : Design Manager (Main Contractor) – Architectural Background

Location: Glasgow 
Salary: £75,000 - £90,000 + Car Allowance + Pension + Bonus DOE

Overview

A well-established and design-led main contractor is seeking a Design Manager from an architectural background to support the delivery of a broad range of high-quality projects.

Operating across new build and refurbishment schemes, this organisation has a strong reputation in commercial fit out, workplace environments, hospitality, and mission-critical infrastructure. The role will suit an individual who is confident managing design on complex, fast-paced projects, particularly where coordination and technical detail are critical.

Key Responsibilities

• Take ownership of the design management process from pre-construction through to completion
• Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring efficient and compliant delivery
• Act as the key link between client, consultants, and site delivery teams
• Manage design programmes to align with project milestones and construction timelines
• Lead design reviews, workshops, and coordination meetings
• Ensure all designs meet technical standards, regulations, and project requirements
• Identify risks, resolve design issues, and drive practical, buildable solutions
• Support value engineering and design optimisation throughout the project lifecycle
• Oversee documentation, RFIs, and technical submissions to ensure accuracy and completeness
• Provide on-site support to resolve design challenges during delivery

Project Experience

You will gain exposure to a varied and high-quality pipeline, including:

• High-end commercial office fit outs and refurbishments
• Hotel developments and interior upgrades
• Data centre / mission-critical environments
• New build and repositioning of commercial assets

Candidate Requirements

• Architectural background (qualified or with equivalent practical experience)
• Demonstrable experience in a Design Manager or Senior Design Coordinator role
• Strong understanding of design management within a main contracting environment
• Experience delivering both fit out and core construction projects
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and maintain programme momentum
• Strong technical awareness and focus on buildability and coordination
• Excellent communication and organisational skills

Desirable Experience

• Proven track record on complex fit out or interior-led projects
• Experience within commercial workplace or high-specification environments
• Familiarity with BIM and digital coordination tools

What’s on Offer

• Salary up to £90,000
• Car allowance
• Company pension
• Performance-related bonus
• Opportunity to work within a design-focused contractor delivering high-quality, technically detailed projects
• Clear opportunities for career development and progression

Summary

This is an opportunity to join a forward-thinking contractor known for delivering design-led, technically complex schemes, particularly within the fit-out and commercial sectors. The role would suit an architectural professional looking to play a key part in bridging design and delivery across a varied and evolving project portfolio.