Design Team Manager - South London

Our client is a small, multidisciplinary design and build company that works across construction management, specialising in architectural, commercial and residential projects. The company comprises project managers, architects and are based in Sutton, south London. They are currently looking for a Design Team Manager who is also business savvy and that lives within a sensible commute to the office as this role is primarily office-based. 

The role:
Looking for an experienced and talented design team manager to lead their design team. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and mentoring a team of designers to deliver high-quality projects. The role will involve managing team performance through KPIs, providing leadership and guidance and fostering a culture of collaboration and creativity.

Pre-requisites:

• degree in architecture, ideal RIBA qualified
• proven experience in managing design teams, preferably in an agency or creative environment, minimum three years
• strong knowledge of design principles, techniques and software, such as AutoCAD
• at least five years of experience in architectural design and project management
• experience with managing teams through KPIs and metrics
• strong communication, leadership and problem-solving skills
• ability to build strong relationships with clients, their parties specialists and team members
• ability to work effectively in a team environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously
• strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage project risks and develop contingency plans
• knowledge of project management software, such as Monday.com, Harvest, Harvest Forecast

Personal skillset:

• be able to demonstrate an expert flair for design and creativity
• able to inspire both trust and excitement through a non-assertive but confident manor
• generate buy in from stakeholders to maximise the highest quality design
• positive attitude and motivated to achieve
• committed to professional and professional growth and development
• willing to take full ownership of their position and the projects they undertake
• a team player committed to adding value
• happy to try new things to learn and grow

Key responsibilities:

• manage and mentor a team of designers, ensuring that they are delivering high-quality work on time and within budget
• set team KPIs and objectives and monitor and report on team performance against these metrics
• foster a culture of collaboration and creativity and encourage the team to continually develop their skills and knowledge
• lead the design process from conception to completion, ensuring that design projects meet client expectations and are delivered to the highest standards
• develop and maintain project budgets and track project costs to ensure that they are within budget
• liaise with clients to understand their needs and expectations and to provide regular project updates
• ensure that the team adheres to design standards, best practices and industry trends

Qualifications and experience:

• educated to RIBA Part 3 (or equivalent) – applicants who have not completed their Part 3 but have suitable experience and skill sets may be considered
• detailed experience of UK planning and working knowledge of UK building regulations
• a minimum of five years of practical experience on residential projects
• experience in a customer facing role environment and taking direct briefs from clients
• high proficiency in AutoCAD

What else can I expect?

• working within a structured positive organisation with defined routes for career progression through the organisation structure
• competitive salaries and clear salary progression in line with their established career path
• exposure to a broad spectrum and high flux of projects and scenarios within a fast-paced environment
• opportunity to further your knowledge and explore opportunities in other business areas if you so wish to pursue
• mentoring programmes from executive through the career path all the way to leadership
• be part of a fun, engaging, positive team. A team that shares a common vision and support each other’s individual goals
• fun and creative team social gatherings
• several company perks, i.e., free coffee at Nero’s, birthday leave, paid family leave, personal development courses, office massage
• phone, laptop