Design Manager

Leighs Construction is a proudly New Zealand-owned and operated company, delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients, staff, and communities for over 25 years. With an inclusive culture and an iconic portfolio of projects across New Zealand, the wider Pacific, and Antarctica, we are committed to creating safe, innovative structures that leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

We are looking for a **Design Manager** to join our North Island Team.

**About the role**:
Based in** Freemans Bay Auckland**, you will report to the North Island Regional Manager and work closely with teams across preconstruction and project delivery. This role is integral to the success of our projects and supports our mission of creating a better future in construction. You will also be part of our technical design team, supported by the Head of Design.

With a sound understanding of the overall design and construction process, the Design Manager will manage projects from a preconstruction perspective and contribute valuable support and advice to our clients which will enable them to make informed decisions on their projects before they progress into our construction phase. The Design Manager will instill confidence as a safe pair of hands for our clients and will lead teams to achieving positive outcomes.

**Key responsibilities include**:

- Enhanced margin and profitability growth from ECI and Design Build projects
- Increased value of company turnover secured from negotiated ECI and Design Build contracts
- Client satisfaction of quality project design and delivery
- Deliver quality, cost effective, affordable design solutions in line with client’s requirements
- Support operations teams during project delivery

**About You**:
To thrive in this role, you will bring:

- Solid understanding of design and construction processes including working with public and private sector clients throughout the initial feasibility, project design, bid management, procurement process and through construction
- Varied and practical experience in delivering commercial construction projects in NZ and/or internationally
- Technical expertise both in design management and construction management

**Qualifications, Skills, and Experience**:
We are looking for someone with:

- A tertiary qualification (degree or diploma) in Construction, Architecture or Project Management, or equivalent practical experience.
- Minimum 10 years relevant industry experience
- Proven ability to solve problems and develop effective solutions.
- Excellent organisation and time management skills.
- Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and align teams to achieve common goals.

**What we offer**:
Joining Leighs means being part of a stable, privately-owned business that is passionate about growth and our people. We are committed to your development and wellbeing, ensuring you Work Safe, Home Safe, and Thrive at Leighs. You’ll work with a passionate, proud, and dedicated team focused on making construction a better place.

**What now?**

To be considered for this position, applicants must have New Zealand residency or hold a valid New Zealand work visa. All employees must complete a pre-employment medical check, including drug and alcohol testing, and undergo a criminal history check with the Ministry of Justice.

Please note, Leighs is conducting a comprehensive recruitment process for this position, and we are not considering agency referrals at this time.

Position description

Permanent Full Time

**Job no**:HPAH50135

**Location**:Auckland

**Closing Date**:Applications Close 14 September 2025