Assistant Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Assistant Design Manager

Company: ACT

Location: United Kingdom

Job Type: Permanent

Category: Design Management / Construction Operations

Date Posted: November 4, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the Design Manager in overseeing the technical delivery of high-end residential projects from pre-construction through to project handover, focusing on operational excellence and design integrity.

• Coordinate and manage design information from specialist consultants and subcontractors, ensuring seamless integration and adherence to project specifications.

• Monitor and control the technical submittal and shop drawing process, ensuring compliance with planning approvals, quality standards, and regulatory requirements.

• Facilitate efficient communication and problem-solving between internal teams, external consultants, and subcontractors to proactively resolve design issues and maintain project momentum.

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of project documentation, including Information Release Schedules and progress reports, ensuring accuracy and timely updates.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a hybrid between a design support function and operational project management within the construction context. The focus on "technical delivery," "coordination," and "compliance" indicates a strong operational component, requiring meticulous attention to process, documentation, and stakeholder management, typical of a construction operations role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Support the daily coordination and management of design information flow from specialist consultants and subcontractors across multiple high-end residential projects.

• Monitor the technical design submittal and shop drawing process during RIBA Stages 4 and 5, ensuring strict compliance with project requirements, planning approvals, and overarching quality standards.

• Oversee the production, review, and approval of material samples, mock-ups, and quality benchmarks to uphold the project's design intent and execution standards.

• Assist in managing the end-to-end Request for Information (RFI) process, ensuring timely responses and resolution of design queries from site teams and external parties.

• Contribute to the development and maintenance of the Information Release Schedule, proactively identifying and resolving inconsistencies, design changes, and missing information to prevent project delays.

• Prepare comprehensive design reports and progress updates, communicating key information and status to project stakeholders.

• Support Design Team Meetings (DTMs) and workshops by effectively assigning, recording, and tracking action items through to their successful completion.

• Collaborate closely with subcontractors and suppliers to efficiently and proactively resolve on-site design issues, minimizing impact on programme and budget.

• Assist in maintaining strict adherence to project programme timelines, budget controls, and overall design quality throughout the project lifecycle.

• Ensure rigorous technical compliance with Planning and Listed Building Consents, liaising with relevant authorities as needed.

• Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress, assist in resolving on-site coordination issues, and document/approve outcomes, ensuring practical implementation of design.

• Attend and actively contribute to project meetings with internal teams, clients, and their consultant teams, representing the design management function.

• Adhere to company-wide project reporting requirements related to design management, ensuring consistent and accurate reporting both internally and externally.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of design coordination and project execution oversight. The emphasis on RIBA stages, shop drawings, RFIs, and site visits indicates a need for strong process management and problem-solving skills within a construction operations framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Architectural Technology, providing a foundational understanding of design principles and construction practices. Experience:

• Minimum of 3-4 years of demonstrable experience working within RIBA Stages 3-4, evidenced through a portfolio or CV, showcasing practical application of design management processes.

• Experience in high-end residential projects is highly preferred, indicating familiarity with the unique demands and quality expectations of this sector. Required Skills:

• Strong understanding of construction detailing and design coordination, essential for translating design intent into buildable solutions.

• Familiarity with the technical requirements for Planning and Listed Building Consents/Heritage applications, ensuring regulatory compliance.

• Proficiency in understanding UK Building and Fire Regulations, critical for project safety and compliance.

• Knowledge of technical aspects related to Mechanical & Electrical (M&E) systems and structural coordination, facilitating integrated design solutions.

• Excellent organizational skills, crucial for managing multiple projects, documentation, and deadlines within a fast-paced construction environment.

• Strong communication skills, enabling effective liaison with internal teams, clients, consultants, and subcontractors.

• Proven problem-solving abilities, necessary for addressing design and site coordination challenges efficiently. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with design software such as AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, or Vectorworks, while not essential, would enhance efficiency in reviewing and coordinating technical drawings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualification requirements emphasize a technical background in architecture or technology, coupled with practical experience in specific project stages and regulatory environments. The preference for software proficiency points towards a need for efficient digital workflow management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate experience working through RIBA Stages 3-4, showcasing the progression of design development and technical detailing.

• Highlight projects involving high-end residential construction, emphasizing attention to detail and quality execution.

• Include examples of managing technical submittals and shop drawings, illustrating understanding of the review and approval process.

• Showcase experience with RFI management, demonstrating effective problem-solving and communication in resolving design queries.

• Present evidence of understanding and applying UK Building and Fire Regulations, Planning Consents, and Listed Building Consents. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of how design information was coordinated and managed from various consultants and subcontractors.

• Illustrate experience in developing or contributing to Information Release Schedules, showing an ability to track and manage design deliverables.

• Showcase an understanding of quality assurance processes, including the review and approval of samples and mock-ups.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio is crucial for this role to demonstrate practical experience in design coordination, regulatory compliance, and project lifecycle management within construction. The emphasis is on tangible outputs and process adherence.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on the UK market for an Assistant Design Manager with 3-4 years of experience in high-end residential construction, a competitive salary range is estimated between £35,000 - £45,000 per annum. This estimate considers the specified experience level, the specialized nature of high-end residential projects, and the UK location. Benefits:

• 24 Days Holidays: Standard annual leave allowance, with three days designated for the Christmas shutdown period.

• Length of Service Leave: An additional holiday day is awarded for each year of service, up to a maximum of five extra days, rewarding long-term commitment.

• Vitality Healthcare: Comprehensive private healthcare coverage, including access to physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy, chiropody/podiatry, acupuncture, and homoeopathy.

• Wellhub Membership: Free access to a network of gyms, wellness centres, and health applications, promoting employee well-being.

• Strong Culture: Regular company events, team-building activities, and celebrations fostering a positive and engaging work environment.

• NEST Pension Scheme: ACT contributes 3% of qualifying earnings to a pension scheme, supporting long-term financial planning.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for career advancement and internal promotions, encouraging continuous learning and growth within the company.

• Employee Assistance Programme: Confidential 24/7 support services, including advice, counselling, and resources for mental health and wellbeing.

• Cycle to Work Scheme: A tax-efficient option to purchase a new bicycle and accessories through salary sacrifice.

• Mintago Benefit Platform: An integrated platform offering salary sacrifice options for pension contributions and other benefits.

• Dog Friendly Office: A welcoming environment for employees who wish to bring their dogs to work. Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are 40 hours per week, reflecting a full-time commitment typical in the construction industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the UK, considering the specified experience and sector. The benefits package is comprehensive, focusing on health, well-being, and professional growth, which are attractive to operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Construction, specifically focusing on super-prime residential contracting. This niche demands exceptional quality, meticulous attention to detail, and a high level of client service, influencing operational priorities and team ethos.

Company Size: ACT is a growing company, indicated by the expansion of their in-house design team. This suggests a dynamic environment where individuals can make a tangible impact and potentially influence processes as the company scales.

Founded: While the founding date is not specified, the company's focus on "super-prime residential" implies a mature understanding of a high-value market segment.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the core project team, working closely with the Design Manager and likely other project managers, site managers, and design consultants.

• The structure supports cross-functional collaboration, essential for integrating design considerations with construction realities.

• Reporting lines will likely involve reporting design progress and issues upwards to the Design Manager and potentially project directors. Methodology:

• Emphasis on technical delivery and design management from pre-construction to handover, indicating a structured project lifecycle approach.

• Focus on client satisfaction and exceptional quality, driving a culture of high standards and meticulous execution in all operational aspects.

• Commitment to developing in-house design capabilities suggests a forward-thinking approach to integrating design more strategically into operations.

Company Website: https://act.careers.hibob.com/jobs/0b439d71-89e7-455f-a30b-caf10a5a72ee

📝 Enhancement Note: ACT operates in a demanding, quality-driven sector of residential construction. The culture likely values precision, collaboration, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, aligning with operational excellence in project delivery.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is an Assistant Design Manager, positioned at a mid-level within the design and project management hierarchy. It serves as a critical support function to the Design Manager, focusing on the operational aspects of design execution.

Reporting Structure: The Assistant Design Manager will report directly to the Design Manager. They will also collaborate closely with site teams, project managers, and external consultants, requiring effective stakeholder management.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts project success by ensuring technical design compliance, quality standards, and efficient coordination. Its effectiveness contributes to the overall technical delivery, budget adherence, and client satisfaction for high-end residential projects.

Growth Opportunities:

• Design Management Expertise: Progress to a full Design Manager role by gaining comprehensive experience across all RIBA stages and project types.

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas such as technical detailing, regulatory compliance, or M&E/structural coordination.

• Project Management: Transition into broader project management roles within construction, leveraging the operational understanding gained.

• Internal Advancement: As ACT expands its design team, opportunities for leadership and increased responsibility within the company are likely.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear pathway for career progression within design management and construction operations, with opportunities to gain specialized knowledge and take on greater responsibility within a growing company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a dog-friendly office environment, suggesting a relaxed yet professional atmosphere. This indicates a modern approach to workplace culture, prioritizing employee well-being and comfort.

Office Location(s): Based in the United Kingdom, with specific office locations likely in a major urban hub given the nature of high-end residential projects. The hybrid work arrangement suggests a balance between office-based collaboration and remote work flexibility.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is likely designed to foster collaboration, with spaces for team meetings and design reviews.

• Access to necessary design and project management tools and technology is expected, supporting efficient workflow.

• Opportunities for interaction with the broader project team, design department, and potentially senior management will be present.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical for this role, with the hybrid arrangement allowing for flexibility in managing workdays between the office and remote locations. This schedule supports the demands of project coordination and site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at ACT appears to be progressive, combining professional demands with employee-centric policies like a dog-friendly office and hybrid working, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess experience against the core requirements (RIBA Stages, residential projects, technical knowledge).

• Technical Interview: Discussion focused on your understanding of construction detailing, UK regulations, M&E/structural coordination, and your experience with design management processes (RFIs, submittals). Be prepared to walk through specific examples from your portfolio.

• Case Study/Challenge: You may be presented with a design coordination problem or a scenario requiring resolution of conflicting information. Your approach to problem-solving, communication, and technical reasoning will be evaluated.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Conversation with the Design Manager or other team members to assess your communication style, collaborative approach, and alignment with ACT's culture and values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management to discuss career aspirations and overall fit within the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your experience with RIBA Stages 3-4, high-end residential work, and technical coordination.

• Showcase Process: For each project, clearly outline your role, the challenges faced, your approach to resolving them (e.g., RFI process, coordination meetings), and the outcome.

• Highlight Technical Detail: Include examples of complex construction details, coordination drawings, or instances where you ensured compliance with regulations.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, mention any positive impacts on project timelines, quality improvements, or cost efficiencies achieved through your design management contributions.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with typical construction coordination issues, especially in residential settings.

• Review common challenges related to M&E and structural integration.

• Practice articulating your problem-solving methodology clearly and concisely, focusing on logical steps and stakeholder communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both technical proficiency and practical application of design management within a construction operations context. A strong, well-prepared portfolio is essential for demonstrating relevant experience.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Familiarity with AutoCAD, ArchiCAD, or Vectorworks is preferred. Experience in reviewing technical drawings produced in these programs is crucial for coordination.

• Project Management Software: Experience with systems for tracking RFIs, submittals, and information release schedules (e.g., Procore, Aconex, or similar construction management platforms) is highly beneficial.

• Document Management Systems: Proficiency in using platforms for storing, organizing, and distributing project documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software (e.g., Microsoft Excel): Essential for managing data related to schedules, budgets, and progress tracking.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to compile information into clear, concise reports for management and stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design information integrates with broader project management and client relationship processes is advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software and construction project management platforms is key for this role, enabling efficient coordination and information management within the project lifecycle.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality results, particularly in the demanding super-prime residential sector. This translates to meticulous attention to detail in design coordination and compliance.

• Collaboration: Working effectively as part of a core project team, liaising with consultants, subcontractors, and clients to achieve shared project goals.

• Proactivity: Taking initiative to identify and resolve potential design issues before they impact the project timeline or budget.

• Technical Proficiency: A strong foundation in architectural technology, building regulations, and construction detailing is valued.

• Client Focus: Understanding the importance of client satisfaction and delivering projects that meet exceptional standards.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teamwork: Expect to work closely with the Design Manager and other project team members, fostering a cohesive approach to project delivery.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Regular interaction with external consultants and subcontractors requires clear, professional, and solution-oriented communication.

• Feedback Culture: An environment where design challenges are discussed openly, and feedback is used constructively to improve processes and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: ACT's culture likely emphasizes high performance, collaboration, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, essential for success in the competitive super-prime residential construction market.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-End Project Demands: Meeting the exceptionally high aesthetic and quality standards expected in super-prime residential projects.

• Coordination Complexity: Managing diverse design inputs from multiple specialist consultants and subcontractors, ensuring seamless integration.

• Regulatory Navigation: Staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with evolving UK Building and Fire Regulations, as well as planning and heritage requirements.

• Fast-Paced Environment: Working within project timelines that often require rapid problem-solving and decision-making.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Management: Deepen expertise in managing complex design processes within high-value construction projects.

• Technical Specialization: Gain in-depth knowledge of M&E systems, structural engineering, and specific building technologies relevant to luxury residences.

• Regulatory Acumen: Develop a comprehensive understanding of planning, heritage, and building control processes.

• Career Progression: Opportunities to advance into senior design management or project management roles within ACT as the company and its in-house design team grow.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities to tackle complex challenges within a specialized sector, fostering deep expertise and providing a strong foundation for future growth in construction design and project management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience with RIBA Stages 3-4. What were your primary responsibilities in managing technical design information during these stages?" (Focus on process, documentation, and coordination.)

• "Walk me through a challenging design coordination issue you encountered on a high-end residential project. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Highlight problem-solving, communication, and technical resolution.)

• "How do you ensure technical compliance with UK Building Regulations and Planning Consents throughout the design and construction phases?" (Emphasize knowledge of regulations and proactive compliance measures.)

• "Describe your experience managing the RFI process. What steps do you take to ensure timely and accurate responses?" (Focus on process efficiency and stakeholder engagement.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for ACT, specifically within the super-prime residential sector?" (Show understanding of the company's niche and your passion for it.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with architects, engineers, subcontractors, and site teams?" (Highlight your communication and teamwork skills.)

• "How do you prioritize tasks when managing design information across multiple projects?" (Demonstrate organizational skills and ability to manage competing demands.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose projects that clearly showcase your experience with RIBA Stages 3-4, construction detailing, and regulatory compliance.

• Narrative Flow: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your role and actions, the technical solutions implemented, and the final result.

• Visual Aids: Use drawings, diagrams, or photos to illustrate complex details or coordination solutions.

• Focus on Process: Explain your methodology for managing RFIs, submittals, and design information flow.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most relevant aspects for the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a solid understanding of construction operations, design management processes, regulatory knowledge, and the ability to articulate complex technical information clearly.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Assistant Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the ACT careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to specifically highlight projects demonstrating experience with RIBA Stages 3-4, high-end residential construction, and managing technical design information. Ensure it showcases your problem-solving skills in coordination and regulatory compliance.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly detail your responsibilities and achievements in previous roles, using keywords such as "Design Management," "Construction Detailing," "RIBA Stages," "UK Building Regulations," "M&E Coordination," and "RFI Process." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with specific examples that align with the primary responsibilities and required skills. Be ready to discuss your approach to technical challenges and collaboration.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research ACT, focusing on their portfolio of super-prime residential projects and their company culture. Understand their approach to design and construction quality.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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