Senior Pre-Construction Design Manager | Main Contractor | Hertfordshire | £95k+P

About the Company
Our client is a highly respected, residential-focused main contractor recognised for delivering complex, design-led housing schemes across London and the South East. With a strong pipeline of major regeneration and mixed-use developments, they are now seeking an experienced Design / Senior Pre-Construction Design Manager to join their established pre-construction team.

The Role – PCSA-Focused
This key pre-construction appointment will take ownership of design management during the PCSA phase on large-scale residential projects, ensuring robust technical governance and smooth progression through early project stages. You will work closely with clients, consultants, and internal teams to manage design risk, coordinate information flow, and drive clarity before contracts are finalised.

Experience working within Gateway 2 requirements — ensuring projects satisfy all Building Safety Act obligations prior to progression — is highly desirable.

Key Responsibilities

Lead all design management activities during PCSA, from concept through to Gateway 2 submission.
Manage consultant design teams, ensuring accurate information, compliance, and timely deliverables.
Develop design management strategies, design programmes, and risk registers.
Coordinate technical reviews, buildability assessments, and value engineering opportunities.
Ensure project documentation meets Building Safety Act standards and supports Gateways processes.
Work collaboratively with pre-construction, commercial, and delivery teams to ensure seamless handover into construction.
Build strong client and stakeholder relationships, representing the business with professionalism and technical authority.
About You

Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager within a main contracting environment.
Strong background in residential or mixed-use projects.
Demonstrable experience working through PCSA stages with a clear understanding of design risk and early-stage coordination.
Exposure to Gateway 2 submissions or Building Safety Act processes.
Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and technical problem-solving skills.
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative pre-construction environment.
What’s on Offer

Up to £95,000 +car/travel allowance
Opportunity to join a forward-thinking, stable contractor with a top-tier project pipeline.
Career progression within an experienced, supportive pre-construction team.
The chance to lead design on high-profile residential schemes shaping local communities.