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Job Title: Design Manager
Salary: 56,000 - 59,000
Location: West Midlands
About our client:
Our client is a leader in sustainable building solutions, specializing in large-scale retrofit projects within the social housing sector. Operating under the PAS 2035:2019 framework, they ensure high standards of energy efficiency and sustainability for every project. Serving local authorities and housing associations across the Midlands, North East, South, and London, they are expanding to meet growing demands.
About the role:
Our client is seeking an experienced Design Manager with a background in the social housing sector and deep knowledge of PAS 2035:2019 retrofit standards. This role involves leading the design team, managing the design process for large-scale retrofit projects, and collaborating closely with retrofit coordinators and designers to ensure compliance. The successful candidate will work directly with clients to ensure projects are designed and delivered to the highest standards of energy efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design Leadership: Oversee the design team to deliver compliant, high-quality design solutions for retrofit projects.
- Client Engagement: Act as the main point of contact for social housing clients, maintaining strong relationships and ensuring design solutions meet expectations and regulations.
- PAS 2035 Compliance: Ensure all design work aligns with PAS 2035:2019 standards, including risk assessment, improvement evaluation, and coordination with retrofit teams.
- Project Management: Collaborate with retrofit coordinators and designers to integrate designs into retrofit plans, balancing energy efficiency, tenant needs, and cost-effectiveness.
- Resource Planning: Manage design resources across multiple projects, ensuring timely delivery within budget.
- Quality Assurance: Implement quality control measures across design outputs, meeting energy efficiency targets, building codes, and client specifications.
- Stakeholder Coordination: Work with clients, retrofit assessors, and contractors to align design strategies and ensure smooth project execution.
- Innovation & Improvement: Stay updated on the latest energy efficiency technologies and best practices to enhance design processes and outcomes.
Qualifications & Experience:
Essential:
- Extensive experience as a Design Manager or Senior Designer in the construction, sustainability, or energy efficiency sectors, with a focus on social housing retrofit.
- Strong knowledge and application of PAS 2035:2019 in large-scale retrofit projects.
- Expertise in energy efficiency, building fabric improvements, and sustainable design.
- Experience managing projects for public sector or social housing clients.
- Proven leadership, team management, and organizational skills to manage multiple projects.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Proficiency with design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and project management tools.
Desirable:
- Degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a related field.
- Certifications in energy efficiency, retrofit coordination, or project management.
- Knowledge of funding mechanisms and compliance for social housing retrofits (e.g., ECO funding, LAD, SHDF).
Key Skills
- Leadership and team management
- In-depth knowledge of PAS 2035 standards and practices
- Expertise in energy-efficient design and retrofit
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills
- Client and stakeholder management, especially within the social housing sector
- Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
- High attention to detail and quality assurance
- Familiarity with public procurement processes and social housing compliance
Benefits:
Company pension
Bonus scheme
Performance bonus
Opportunity to work on impactful, large-scale social housing retrofit projects
Flexible working arrangements (remote work, regional site visits)
Professional development and training in energy efficiency and retrofit coordination
A growing organisation with a focus on sustainability and innovation
