Head of Design

3 days ago

Tauranga Central, New Zealand Classic Group Full time

Why Classic?

At Classic Builders, we're not just in the business of building homes—we're crafting lifestyles, communities, and futures. With nearly 30 years of momentum behind us (as part of the mighty Classic Group), we're one of Aotearoa's largest and most trusted residential builders who are committed to delivering quality homes, exceptional customer experiences, and continuous innovation.

But don't let "big" fool you—we're powered by heart. Our mission? To build a better everyday life for people, every day. And we mean it.

About the Role

The Head of Design will lead and manage our design team ensuring high-quality, efficient, and buildable architectural documentation that supports sales, consenting, and construction. This role blends technical leadership with creative innovation.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead, mentor and grow a high-performing national design team
  • Ensure delivery of all design services within agreed SLA timelines (scheme plans, working drawings, RFIs).
  • Oversee QA processes, technical checks, and peer reviews.
  • Champion residential design innovation and digital design improvements
  • Oversee design planning, workflows, QA, and documentation delivery
  • Partner with Classic Builder regional teams, Sales, QS, Procurement, Marketing, and Ops
  • Ensure compliance with NZ Building Code, NZS3604, district plans, and territorial authority requirements
  • Align efficient design outputs with cost, margin, and construction requirements

About You

You're an experienced residential design leader who brings vision, technical expertise, and the ability to inspire and develop high-performing teams. You will bring passion about innovation, people development, and continuous improvement. You will have the ability to communication and influence across technical and non-technical stakeholders.

  • 10+ years' leadership in residential design or project delivery
  • Licensed Building Practitioner (Design), minimum Level 1.
  • Strong technical knowledge of the NZ Building Code, NZS3604, and consenting processes.
  • Advanced ArchiCAD experience
  • Deep understanding of end-to-end residential design and construction.
  • Commercial acumen with an ability to align design decisions with cost and margin outcomes.
  • Familiarity with NZS3916 is desirable

Join Us

We live and breathe our values: CARE | ONE TEAM | DARING | EXCELLENCE

We're not corporate suits—we're real people, driven by purpose, led by good Kiwi blokes who built this from the ground up. If you're ready to lead design at scale and shape the next era of Classic Builders, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply now or contact Steph Tumai on for a confidential chat. Please note we will not be reviewing any applications until January 2026.

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