Design Manager

Company 
Our client is a leading Tier 1 main contractor with an established reputation for delivering some of New Zealand’s most complex and high-profile commercial projects. With a strong forward pipeline, they are looking to appoint an experienced Design Manager to join their Christchurch team.

This is a key role within the project delivery function, working across the full design lifecycle and acting as the critical link between the client, consultants and construction team.

The Opportunity

• Lead and manage the design process from pre-construction through to delivery
• Coordinate architects, engineers, specialist consultants and subcontractors
• Drive design programmes, deliverables and approvals to ensure projects remain on track
• Review design documentation with a strong focus on buildability, compliance and quality
• Identify design risks and opportunities for value engineering and cost optimisation
• Manage the consenting process and ensure statutory requirements are met
• Work closely with Project Managers, Quantity Surveyors and site teams to ensure a seamless transition from design into construction
• Provide technical input and support during construction, resolving design queries and challenges
• Lead design meetings and maintain strong relationships with clients and key stakeholders
• Contribute to tendering, procurement and early contractor involvement where required

Requirements

• 5+ years’ experience in Design Management, ideally within a main contractor environment
• Architectural, engineering or construction management background
• Strong understanding of NZ Building Code, consenting and construction methodologies
• Experience managing multidisciplinary consultant teams on large-scale projects
• Strong knowledge of design coordination, documentation and buildability
• Commercially aware with an understanding of programme, cost and risk
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
• Confident challenging design solutions and driving outcomes
• Highly organised, proactive and solutions-focused

What’s on Offer

• Join a Tier 1 contractor with a strong national project pipeline
• Opportunity to work on significant, complex and high-profile projects
• Genuine career progression and leadership opportunities
• Work alongside highly experienced construction and technical teams
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• A business that invests in its people, capability and long-term development

If you're an Architect, Senior Architectural Technician, Design Manager or construction professional looking to make the move client/contractor-side, this could be an excellent next step. Current NZ Design Manager roles commonly emphasise consultant leadership, buildability, consenting, value engineering and close integration with site delivery.