Pre-Construction Design Manager

Job Title: Pre-Construction Design Manager - bespoke Staircases Reports to: Pre-Construction Director Location: Hampshire (Hybrid Working) Employment Type: Full-Time Salary: £50,000 - £80,000 DOE Overview I'm seeking an experienced Pre-Construction Design Manager to take ownership of bespoke turnkey staircase projects from concept through to full order handover. This role combines creative design leadership with commercial and contractual management, ensuring seamless transition to delivery teams while maximising value for both client and contractor. Key Responsibilities 1. Pre-Construction & Design Leadership Lead staircase design projects from concept to order stage. Collaborate with the Design Office Manager to resource projects effectively. Coordinate with external structural engineers when required. Manage BIM requirements in-house or with specialist providers. Contribute to weekly design meetings with client teams. Apply creative design thinking to deliver standout solutions. 2. Commercial & Contractual Management Build strong client relationships to convert design-only work into full turnkey orders. Identify and add value through additional profitable items within stairwell packages. Oversee commercial aspects of pre-construction including variations, cost tracking, and compliance with client cost plans. Maintain accurate reporting on design progress, variations, and programme impacts. 3. Programme & Process Control Establish robust pre-construction programmes, proactively managing potential delays. Push for timely decisions and approvals to maintain momentum. Optimise material use and labour efficiency without compromising quality. 4. Sustainability & Compliance Embed BREEAM, WELL, and other sustainability frameworks into design solutions. Ensure designs meet environmental, social responsibility, and resource efficiency targets. Stay current with evolving standards, legislation, and client requirements. Skills & Experience Essential: Proven experience managing bespoke architectural or structural design projects (ideally staircases or similar features). Strong commercial awareness and contract management knowledge. Ability to deliver design within client cost plans while adding value. Strong client-facing and relationship-building skills. Experience resourcing and managing design teams, including external consultants. Knowledge of BIM processes and requirements. Familiarity with BREEAM, WELL, or similar sustainability frameworks. Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills. Organised with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects. Desirable: Background in structural engineering, architectural design, or related discipline. Experience in bespoke or high-end manufacturing environments. Understanding of fabrication processes for staircases or architectural metalwork. Personal Attributes Client-focused with a drive to exceed expectations. Creative and solutions-oriented. Resilient under pressure, with a proactive approach to challenges. Detail-focused yet able to see the wider project picture. Package Competitive salary benefits, commensurate with experience. Hybrid working available. Apply today and our steel specialist at The Highfield Company Sabrina O'Donnell will be in touch

Location: Hampshire, GB

Posted Date: 9/14/2025