Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Summerset

Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Design Management / Development Operations

Date Posted: March 15, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the end-to-end design lifecycle for retirement living developments, from initial land acquisition through master planning to final construction delivery.

• Coordinate and manage external consultant teams, ensuring alignment with project briefs, Summerset's design standards, and regulatory compliance.

• Drive the achievement of project milestones, program timelines, and financial objectives through effective design process management.

• Ensure all design outcomes meet stringent Australian planning regulations, National Construction Code (NCC) requirements, and specific aged care standards.

• Facilitate value management initiatives, BIM coordination, and robust quality assurance processes to optimize project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is crucial for the GTM (Go-To-Market) strategy of Summerset's Australian developments, bridging the gap between initial development strategy and the physical realization of villages. The "Design Manager" title strongly suggests a role within development operations, focusing on the planning, execution, and oversight of the design phase of construction projects. This role requires a blend of technical design expertise and project management acumen, with a strong emphasis on ensuring projects are commercially viable and compliant.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Lifecycle Management: Lead and manage the entire design process for allocated villages, from land acquisition and feasibility studies through to detailed design documentation and construction delivery.

• Consultant Coordination: Establish clear project briefs, procure, and manage teams of external consultants (architects, engineers, landscape architects, etc.), ensuring seamless collaboration and integration of their work.

• Program and Budget Oversight: Develop and manage design programs, track documentation progress, secure necessary approvals, and ensure design solutions align with established financial objectives and project budgets.

• Compliance and Standards Enforcement: Ensure all designs rigorously comply with Australian planning legislation, the National Construction Code (NCC), building codes, and relevant aged care regulations.

• Value Engineering and Quality Assurance: Actively participate in value management exercises, oversee BIM coordination for integrated project delivery, and implement quality assurance processes to uphold design integrity and construction quality.

• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare and present design concepts, progress updates, and key decisions to internal stakeholders, including the Head of Design (Australia), Development, Commercial, and Executive teams.

• Construction Support: Provide ongoing design support during the construction phase, including conducting site observations, responding to design queries, RFI management, and supporting the site team to ensure quality delivery.

• Standards Development: Contribute to the continuous improvement and development of Summerset Australia's design guidelines and Building Information Modeling (BIM) standards.

• Safety and Culture Advocacy: Champion Safety in Design principles and foster Summerset's zero-harm culture throughout all project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a significant operational focus on process management, risk mitigation (compliance, safety), and cross-functional collaboration. The emphasis on "programme milestones" and "financial objectives" positions this role firmly within operations, where efficient execution and resource management are paramount. The inclusion of "BIM coordination" and "value management" points to a need for sophisticated project delivery methodologies and a focus on cost-effectiveness and efficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in design management, senior architectural roles, or project management within the construction and development sector.

Required Skills:

• Design Management Expertise: Proven ability to manage complex design processes from inception through to construction.

• Technical Proficiency: Strong technical knowledge in building design, construction methods, and documentation review; ability to critically assess architectural and engineering drawings.

• Regulatory Acumen: Comprehensive understanding and working knowledge of the National Construction Code (NCC) and Australian planning frameworks.

• Consultant Management: Experience in coordinating and managing diverse teams of external consultants, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality design work.

• Project Delivery: Experience in value management, site observations, and working within design & build environments.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with a proven ability to manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities to address design challenges and project issues effectively.

• Documentation Control: Proficiency in managing and reviewing technical documentation, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and coordination processes.

• Familiarity with aged care facility design standards and requirements.

• Experience in the retirement living or aged care sector.

• Knowledge of sustainability principles in design and construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level (7+ years) and the specific technical skills (NCC, Australian Planning, BIM, Value Management) indicate a mid-to-senior level operations role that requires deep domain knowledge in construction project design and delivery. The emphasis on documentation review and technical knowledge suggests a need for strong analytical and quality control capabilities, typical of operations roles focused on process adherence and risk management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 significant design management projects, detailing your role, key responsibilities, and project outcomes. Focus on projects similar in scale and complexity to retirement living developments.

• Process Improvement Examples: Include specific examples or case studies demonstrating your ability to implement process improvements within the design lifecycle, leading to enhanced efficiency, cost savings, or quality improvements.

• System Implementation/Coordination: Evidence of experience in coordinating or managing systems like BIM, demonstrating how you ensured seamless integration and data flow between different disciplines and project phases.

• Compliance & Quality Assurance Documentation: Present examples of how you've ensured regulatory compliance and maintained quality standards, perhaps through review checklists, audit reports, or documentation management strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Provide examples of how you've designed or optimized design workflows to improve collaboration, reduce lead times, and enhance clarity.

• Implementation & Automation: Detail instances where you've implemented or supported the implementation of new design processes or technologies, such as BIM workflows or digital documentation platforms.

• Measurement & Analysis: Showcase how you've measured the performance of design processes, using metrics related to program adherence, budget control, quality outcomes, and stakeholder satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, a portfolio is critical. It needs to demonstrate not just design aesthetic quality but the operational rigor required to manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects. The emphasis should be on process, efficiency, compliance, and demonstrable outcomes, especially in terms of delivering projects on time and within budget. This aligns with the operational focus on predictable, repeatable success.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Arrangements: Opportunities to balance work and personal life, promoting employee well-being.

• Employee Shares: Potential to own a stake in the company's success, aligning personal growth with company performance.

• Novated Leases: A tax-effective way to finance vehicles, offering financial benefits.

• Birthday Leave: An additional day of leave to celebrate your birthday, enhancing work-life balance.

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Typically includes medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement Village Discounts: Potential for employee discounts on Summerset residences.

• Professional Development: Support for ongoing training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, Summerset offers flexible working arrangements, which may allow for some adjustment in daily start/end times, subject to operational needs and team coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research of similar Design Manager roles in Melbourne, considering the experience level and industry (property development/construction). The benefits listed are directly from the job description and are typical for senior roles in established companies, with a focus on employee well-being and long-term incentives.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retirement Living & Aged Care Services. Summerset is a prominent player in developing and operating retirement villages, focusing on providing high-quality living environments and care for seniors. This industry demands a strong emphasis on resident well-being, safety, community building, and long-term sustainability.

Company Size: Summerset is a significant organization, likely falling into the "Large" category (500+ employees), with operations spanning across New Zealand and Australia. This size suggests established processes, a structured hierarchy, and potential for cross-functional collaboration on a larger scale. Its founding date (1984) indicates a long-standing presence and established expertise in the retirement village sector.

Founded: 1984. This long history suggests a stable company with deep industry knowledge and a well-defined operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Reporting: The Design Manager will report to the Head of Design (Australia), indicating a clear reporting line within a dedicated design or development function.

• Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with the Development team, Commercial team, and external consultants. This signifies a cross-functional operational environment where communication and coordination are key to project success.

• Specialization: The team likely comprises specialists in various fields such as architecture, planning, engineering, construction, and potentially BIM management, forming a cohesive unit focused on project delivery.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decisions: Summerset emphasizes delivering high-quality design outcomes that meet financial objectives, suggesting a data-informed approach to project planning and execution.

• Process Optimization: The role involves managing design programmes, documentation, and approvals, indicating a focus on structured processes and efficiency.

• Quality and Safety Focus: A strong emphasis on "Summerset standards," "regulatory requirements," and "zero-harm culture" points to a methodology that prioritizes quality, compliance, and safety in all operations.

Company Website: https://www.summerset.co.nz/ (Note: The provided URL was null, this is a placeholder for the company's main site, likely including Australian operations).

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding Summerset's industry (Retirement Living) is crucial. It implies a culture centered on care, long-term vision, and a commitment to quality of life for residents, which should translate into the design and operational values. The company's established history suggests a mature operational framework and potentially a preference for systematic approaches to project management.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a mid-to-senior level management position within the Development Operations function. It requires a blend of technical expertise, project management skills, and leadership capabilities to guide design processes and manage external teams. The role is critical in translating strategic development goals into tangible, compliant, and high-quality built environments.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports directly to the Head of Design (Australia), indicating a structured hierarchy within the design and development department. This provides clear guidance and oversight, with opportunities to influence broader design strategy through reporting and feedback.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role has a direct and significant impact on Summerset's operational success and financial performance. By ensuring designs are compliant, cost-effective, and delivered on time, this role minimizes project delays, cost overruns, and regulatory issues, directly contributing to revenue realization and profitability. High-quality design outcomes also enhance the appeal and marketability of Summerset's villages, supporting sales and occupancy rates.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design/Development Leadership: Progression to roles such as Head of Design (Australia), State Development Manager, or similar senior leadership positions within the development division.

• Specialization Advancement: Deepening expertise in specific areas like BIM strategy, sustainability in design, or complex project procurement.

• Broader Operational Roles: Potential to move into more general project management or development management roles within Summerset, leveraging a strong understanding of the full project lifecycle.

• Mentorship & Training: Opportunities to mentor junior designers or architects, contributing to the development of internal talent and fostering a knowledge-sharing culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path from Design Manager in development operations is typically towards more strategic oversight of multiple projects, larger teams, or broader development functions. The role acts as a critical operational hub, connecting strategic vision with on-the-ground execution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a Melbourne office, as indicated by "Work Location: Melbourne Office" and the specific address provided. This suggests a professional office environment designed to support collaboration, project planning, and administrative tasks related to development projects.

Office Location(s): 412 Saint Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia. This is a well-known commercial precinct in Melbourne, offering accessibility and a professional setting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office likely provides meeting rooms, project discussion areas, and potentially open-plan workspaces to facilitate interaction between the design team, development managers, and other internal stakeholders.

• Technology & Tools: Access to necessary design and project management software, communication tools, and potentially BIM visualization software to support the design and review processes.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for face-to-face collaboration with colleagues from development, commercial, and potentially construction liaison teams, fostering a cohesive project delivery culture.

Work Schedule: While the role is full-time and on-site, Summerset offers "Flexible working arrangements." This may mean that while core hours are expected for team collaboration and site visits, there might be some flexibility in daily start and end times, or a hybrid model could be discussed if operational needs allow, though the primary expectation is on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role in a professional office setting is typical for development management roles that require frequent team interaction, site visits, and stakeholder meetings. "Flexible working arrangements" is a key benefit to highlight, indicating a modern approach to work-life balance within a structured environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: The interview process is likely to be multi-stage, designed to assess technical skills, operational experience, and cultural fit.

• Stage 1: Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter, potentially with a brief HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• Stage 2: Technical/Operational Interview: An in-depth discussion with the Head of Design (Australia) and possibly a senior member of the Development team. This stage will focus on your experience managing design lifecycles, consultant coordination, compliance, and problem-solving. Expect questions around your approach to managing design programs, budgets, and quality.

• Stage 3: Portfolio Presentation: You will likely be asked to present a selection of your most relevant design and development projects from your portfolio. This is where you demonstrate your ability to articulate project challenges, your strategic approach, and the operational outcomes achieved.

• Stage 4: Final Interview/Cultural Fit: A final interview, possibly with a more senior leader, to assess your alignment with Summerset's values, your leadership style, and your overall suitability for the company culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 key projects that best represent your experience in managing large-scale residential or complex building developments from concept to completion.

• Focus on Operations: For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the design challenges, the operational processes you implemented (e.g., consultant management, approval pathways, risk mitigation), and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., delivered on time, within budget, met compliance standards, achieved specific quality benchmarks).

• Highlight Compliance & Value: Emphasize how you ensured adherence to NCC, planning laws, and aged care requirements. Showcase instances where you contributed to value management or cost-efficiency without compromising quality.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals (renderings, plans, site photos) to support your narrative. Avoid overwhelming slides.

• Storytelling: Frame your project presentations as narratives: the challenge, your strategic operational approach, the execution, and the successful outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Management Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario where you need to address a design delay, a significant cost variation, or a complex regulatory issue. Outline your problem-solving process, communication strategy, and proposed solutions, focusing on operational impact.

• Process Improvement Question: You might be asked how you would improve a specific aspect of the design lifecycle at Summerset, or how you would implement BIM coordination more effectively.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you've managed difficult stakeholders or resolved conflicts during the design or construction phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a Design Manager in development operations will heavily scrutinize practical experience and operational problem-solving skills. A strong portfolio showcasing process management and quantifiable results is paramount. The focus will be on how you operate within a complex project environment, not just your design ideas.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar for reviewing and understanding technical drawings.

• BIM Software: Experience with Revit or other BIM platforms will be highly advantageous for coordination and integration.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, or similar for program management and tracking.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with platforms for organizing, storing, and sharing project documentation (e.g., Aconex, Procore).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis, financial tracking, and reporting; Word for documentation; PowerPoint for presentations.

• BI Tools (Desirable): Exposure to business intelligence tools like Tableau or Power BI for data visualization and performance reporting, though not explicitly required, can be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (General Awareness): While not directly managing customer relationships, an understanding of how design impacts CRM data (e.g., sales information, resident feedback) can be valuable.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for internal communication and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for a Design Manager in this context is heavily focused on design visualization, project execution, and documentation management. Proficiency in CAD and a strong understanding of BIM are key operational tools for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design outcomes that meet rigorous standards and contribute to the long-term value of Summerset's villages.

• Safety & Compliance: Prioritizing Safety in Design and ensuring all projects adhere strictly to regulatory requirements, reflecting a deep operational responsibility.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where internal teams and external consultants work together seamlessly towards shared project goals.

• Efficiency & Value: A focus on optimizing design processes, managing programmes effectively, and delivering cost-effective solutions that provide maximum value.

• Resident Focus: An underlying principle of designing with the resident's well-being, comfort, and quality of life at the forefront of all decisions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands active collaboration with development, commercial, and construction teams, requiring strong communication to align diverse perspectives and operational objectives.

• Consultant Partnership: Building and maintaining strong working relationships with external consultants, guiding their work to meet Summerset's specific requirements and standards.

• Proactive Communication: An emphasis on transparent and timely communication to keep all stakeholders informed of design progress, challenges, and decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Summerset's values, as implied by its industry and emphasis on "care, teamwork, and a drive for excellence," likely translate into an operational culture that is diligent, responsible, and focused on delivering reliable, high-quality outcomes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Competing Demands: Juggling design excellence, strict regulatory compliance, tight programme schedules, and budget constraints is a constant operational challenge.

• Managing Consultant Performance: Ensuring that diverse external consultants consistently meet quality, timeliness, and cost expectations can be demanding.

• Navigating Regulatory Landscapes: Staying abreast of evolving Australian planning laws and building codes, and ensuring all designs remain compliant.

• Integrating New Technologies: Adapting to and implementing new design technologies and methodologies, such as advanced BIM workflows, within established project processes.

• Site-Specific Constraints: Addressing unique site conditions and challenges that may impact design intent and require innovative operational solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in BIM coordination and management, a growing area in construction operations.

• Project Management Certifications: Support for obtaining or enhancing project management credentials (e.g., PMP) relevant to construction and development.

• Industry Seminars & Conferences: Attendance at leading property development, architecture, and construction industry events to stay current with trends and best practices.

• Leadership Development Programs: Internal or external training focused on enhancing leadership, negotiation, and strategic planning skills for career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of operational roles in the construction and development sector, requiring strong problem-solving and adaptability. The growth opportunities focus on deepening specialized skills and advancing into leadership positions, a common trajectory for experienced operations professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Strategy & Methodology: "Describe your approach to managing the design lifecycle for a large-scale retirement village development from land acquisition to construction handover. How do you ensure alignment between master planning, detailed design, and construction feasibility?" (Focus on structured processes, risk assessment, and stakeholder integration.)

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you manage a diverse team of external consultants and internal stakeholders with potentially conflicting priorities? Provide an example of a challenging stakeholder situation you resolved." (Emphasize communication, negotiation, and finding common ground for operational success.)

• Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Imagine a critical design element is found to be non-compliant with NCC regulations just weeks before a major tender submission. What steps would you take to resolve this operational issue, minimize impact, and ensure project continuity?" (Highlight a systematic approach to problem-solving, impact assessment, and decisive action.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Operations Culture Alignment: "Summerset emphasizes 'care, teamwork, and a drive for excellence.' How do you see these values influencing your approach to design management and your interactions with colleagues and consultants?" (Connect your personal work philosophy to the company's stated values.)

• Team Dynamics & Collaboration: "How do you foster a collaborative environment among design teams and with other departments like Development and Commercial?" (Discuss your strategies for effective cross-functional communication and team synergy.)

• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success and operational impact of your design management efforts beyond just completing the drawings? What metrics are most important to you?" (Focus on quantifiable results like budget adherence, schedule attainment, quality improvements, and risk reduction.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Operational Narrative: Structure your portfolio presentation around the operational journey of your projects. Clearly define the project's scope, your role, the key operational challenges (e.g., regulatory hurdles, budget constraints, coordination issues), the solutions you implemented, and the measurable outcomes.

• Metrics & ROI: For each project, present key performance indicators (KPIs) that demonstrate operational success: adherence to budget, schedule performance, compliance rates, reduction in RFI's, successful value engineering initiatives, etc. Quantify the return on investment where possible.

• Process Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through a specific design process or workflow you've managed, explaining the steps, the tools used, and how you ensured efficiency and quality at each stage.

• Company Relevance: Tailor your chosen projects to highlight experience relevant to retirement living or complex residential developments. Show how your operational approach aligns with Summerset's goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role should focus on demonstrating a robust understanding of operational processes, risk management, and stakeholder engagement within the context of construction and development projects. The portfolio is your primary tool to showcase these capabilities.

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📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Apply through the provided link on SmartRecruiters. Ensure your application is submitted by the closing date of March 30th to avoid disappointment, as early applications may be reviewed first.

• Tailor Your CV: Customize your resume to highlight your experience in design management, large-scale residential projects, NCC compliance, consultant coordination, and any experience in the retirement living or aged care sectors. Use keywords from the job description to ensure ATS (Applicant Tracking System) compatibility.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that showcases 2-3 of your most relevant design management projects. Focus on demonstrating your operational process, problem-solving skills, ability to manage consultants, adherence to compliance, and quantifiable project outcomes (budget, schedule, quality).

• Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses your suitability for this role, highlighting your key qualifications, your understanding of Summerset's mission, and your passion for creating high-quality retirement living environments.

• Research Summerset: Familiarize yourself with Summerset's current projects, company values, and their position in the Australian retirement living market. This will help you tailor your application and interview responses effectively.

⚠️ 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.