Senior Design Manager

  • GVR Solutions Ltd
  • Sevenoaks, Kent
  • 12/10/2026
Full time Construction Project Manager Management Architect and Design

Job Description

Senior Design Manager required in Kent

GVR Solutions are working with a specialist carpentry and joinery fit-out contractor based in Kent, delivering high-quality bespoke joinery and carpentry packages across a range of commercial and fit-out projects.

Due to continued growth, they are looking to appoint an experienced Senior Design Manager with a strong technical background in carpentry and joinery, particularly in the design, manufacture and installation of doors and associated joinery packages.

This is an excellent opportunity for a technically strong design professional who understands the full process from initial design development through to manufacture, coordination and on-site installation.

Responsibilities of the Senior Design Manager:

  • Lead and develop consistent processes and procedures for design.
  • Lead and manage the Design Managers and design resources to ensure effective delivery across our projects.
  • Retain responsibility for overseeing allocated projects, working collaboratively with the Design Managers to ensure workloads, accountability and ownership are appropriately distributed across the team.
  • Lead the resolution of technical design issues, working with project design teams including architects, engineers and the supply chain.
  • Develop and produce design drawings, specifications and related construction documents.
  • Ensure compliance with building regulations, standards, safety requirements and sustainability requirements.
  • Lead and coordinate with Project Managers and Main Contractors to align design with project requirements and objectives.
  • Manage design schedules, track progress and ensure the timely delivery of design milestones and key deliverables.
  • Maintain overall design requirements across all projects and ensure design obligations are effectively managed and delivered.
  • Attend client design meetings.
  • Provide regular updates to the Operations and Commercial Directors, highlighting progress, risks, responsibilities and key deliverables.
  • Provide specialist and expert design advice to teams internally and clients externally.
  • Work closely with suppliers and supply chain partners to manage design requirements and ensure deliverables meet agreed standards, requirements and deadlines.
  • Attend tender interviews and meetings.

The Senior Design Manager must have/be:

  • Demonstrated ability to lead, manage, and develop team members effectively.
  • Customer-focused approach with behaviours that promote excellent service and represent the organisation positively at every opportunity.
  • Proven experience in construction project design and design management across multiple project stages.
  • Strong knowledge of construction methods, materials, building regulations, and industry best practice.
  • Proficient in the use of design software and Building Information Modelling (BIM) platforms.
  • Excellent project management, leadership, organisational, and communication skills.
  • Proven ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams and resolve design and project-related conflicts.
  • Experienced in developing, coordinating, and maintaining comprehensive door schedules across a range of sectors.
  • Construction design coordination and multidisciplinary design management.
  • Building Information Modelling (BIM) and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) management.
  • Strong understanding of architectural, structural, and construction design principles.
  • Knowledge of building regulations, regulatory compliance, quality assurance, and industry standards.
  • Team leadership, mentoring, and performance development.

If you are interested in the Senior Design Manager role then please get in touch.