Design Lead

Are you a confident Design Lead with experience in cleanroom, laboratory, or technical construction environments? We’re currently recruiting on behalf of a well-established design and build consultancy operating across the pharmaceutical, life sciences, and healthcare sectors. This is an exciting opportunity for a capable Design Lead to join a business known for delivering complex, high-specification projects in regulated environments.

Based at the company’s Head Office in Rochdale, the Design Lead will take ownership of the full design delivery lifecycle. You’ll manage multidisciplinary teams—both internal and external—and coordinate all aspects of the design process from early-stage development through to construction-ready documentation. The successful Design Lead will work closely with clients, regulatory bodies, and internal stakeholders to ensure that all deliverables are compliant, on schedule, and aligned with project goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the design process from appointment through to project completion

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Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, including in-house staff and external consultants

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Develop and manage the Design Execution Plan and BIM Execution Plan

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Chair design and progress meetings with clients and regulatory stakeholders

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Ensure compliance with CDM regulations, ISO 9001 procedures, and health and safety standards

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Oversee the production of accurate, high-quality design documentation

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Monitor project programmes, deliverables, and design budgets

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Manage client changes and advise on implications for cost and schedule

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Support the estimating team during initial design phases

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Mentor and support junior design staff

Requirements:

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HNC qualified (minimum) in Building Studies; a degree is preferred

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At least 10 years’ experience in senior design roles

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Strong technical understanding across architectural, M&E, and public health disciplines

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Prior experience in pharmaceutical, cleanroom, or healthcare facility design

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Confident managing clients and leading project delivery in regulated environments

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Knowledge of construction methods and relevant legislation

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Proficiency in Microsoft Office and project management tools; Revit experience is desirable

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Familiar with ISO 9001 and CDM regulations

Why Join?

This is a fantastic opportunity for a driven Design Lead who thrives on technically challenging work. You’ll lead some of the industry’s most rewarding projects, backed by a business with a strong reputation for quality and delivery. The company actively supports professional development, offering long-term career potential for the right Design Lead