Pre-Construction Design Manager NEW

Job description

Collen Construction is seeking an experienced Preconstruction Design Manager to join our expanding preconstruction and bid organisation. This role will play a critical part in shaping early project strategy, ensuring design clarity, and de-risking complex schemes at tender stage.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong technical background, an understanding of constructability, and an ability to lead multidisciplinary teams across demanding timelines.

Key Requirements

• Degree-qualified in Architecture, Engineering, Building Services, or Construction Management
• Minimum 8–12 years’ experience in design management, technical delivery, preconstruction, or multidisciplinary coordination
• Proven experience working on complex projects such as mission-critical, pharma, industrial, residential, or data centre environments
• Demonstrable capability in managing consultant design teams and specialist subcontractor input
• Strong understanding of procurement routes: Design & Build, PCSA, novation, OFCI/CFCI, and multi-package delivery models
• Comfortable interrogating drawings, challenging assumptions, and steering design solutions in line with commercial and programme realities
• Excellent communication, analytical, and leadership skills with a calm, grounded approach

Reporting to the Bid Director, your key responsibilities for the role will include, but not limited to the following:

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate all preconstruction design activities during tender development
• Interpret client briefs, RFP/RFT requirements, and early design information into robust, buildable solutions
• Act as the technical lynchpin between architects, engineers, consultants, subcontractors, and internal departments
• Conduct design reviews focused on constructability, compliance, logistics, sequencing, and cost impact
• Identify design gaps, technical risks, and assumptions; develop mitigation strategies and clarifications
• Prepare technical narratives, compliance matrices, design responses, and structured bid deliverables
• Engage and manage external design partners and specialist supply chain contributors
• Align design development with procurement strategy, programme, and long-lead considerations
• Uphold quality, governance, and regulatory standards (BCAR, DAC, fire, building regs, EU compliance)
• Support design handover into PCSA / contract award phases where required

What We Offer

• Opportunity to work on landmark projects with blue-chip clients across Ireland, the UK, and mainland Europe
• Collaborative preconstruction team with strong technical and commercial support
• Exposure to strategic decision-making, design governance, and early delivery planning
• Clear pathway for progression into senior preconstruction leadership roles