An established architectural and design practice is seeking a Design Manager to oversee the design and delivery of major commercial, industrial and retail developments.
This is a client-side design management position rather than a traditional architectural role.
You will represent the client's interests, manage the consultant team and ensure the design remains commercially viable, coordinated and aligned with the project brief.
The Role
You will work closely with clients, internal architects, engineers, contractors and specialist consultants, managing projects from early design through approvals, documentation and construction.
Responsibilities will include:
Managing the complete design process on behalf of the client
Acting as the main point of contact between the client and consultant team
Establishing project briefs, design programs and consultant deliverables
Appointing, coordinating and managing architects, engineers and specialist consultants
Chairing design meetings and driving actions through to completion
Reviewing design documentation for quality, coordination and compliance
Ensuring the design meets the client's operational, commercial and development objectives
Managing design risks, approvals, budgets and program requirements
Identifying buildability issues and coordinating practical solutions




Managing design changes throughout documentation and construction
Reporting clearly to clients on progress, risks and key decisions
Supporting the project team during tendering and construction
About You
Experience managing the design and delivery of large commercial, industrial or retail projects
A background in architecture, construction, development or project management
Strong experience managing clients and multidisciplinary consultant teams
A solid understanding of design development, planning, approvals and construction documentation
The ability to balance design quality with cost
Strong commercial awareness and problem‐solving skills
Excellent communication, stakeholder management and presentation skills
The confidence to lead meetings, challenge consultants and drive decisions
Relevant qualifications in architecture
The Chance
This is an opportunity to move beyond traditional architectural delivery and take greater ownership of the overall design management process.
You will work directly with clients, influence major project decisions and manage experienced consultant teams across substantial commercial, industrial and retail developments.

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📌 Design Manager (Architecture) (New South Wales)
🏢 Kappa Executive Search
📍 New South Wales