Design Manager

We are proud to be partnering with Precon, a leading Project Management and pre-construction consultancy, to appoint a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager to support the delivery of major healthcare, education and commercial projects across New Zealand.

Precon is a privately owned consultancy known for its deep technical capability, strong pre-construction expertise and ability to deliver complex capital projects from the earliest stages for both private and public sector clients. With a reputation for technical excellence, a high-performing and collaborative team culture, and a strong repeat-client base, Precon continues to work at the forefront of New Zealand's most challenging and significant development programmes.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone with an architectural background who enjoys front-end construction design management, problem solving, early-stage influence and working across multiple projects at different phases.

The Opportunity

As a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager with Precon, you will lead design activity through feasibility, concept, developed and detailed design phases. You will work closely with internal leaders, client-side stakeholders, consultants and regulatory authorities to ensure appropriate design solutions that are technically robust and aligned with project objectives.

You will be responsible for navigating consenting pathways, managing design risk, facilitating key design meetings and supporting clients with briefing, procurement strategy and overall project governance. This role suits someone who enjoys variety, advisory work and being deeply involved at the front end of major projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the full design process across multiple projects and stages.
• Apply strong architectural and technical expertise to guide design direction.
• Facilitate design workshops and coordination meetings, resolving complex issues.
• Oversee documentation, workflows, design programmes and reporting.
• Work closely with consultants, contractors, councils and regulatory authorities.
• Manage consenting strategy, design assurance and early contractor involvement.
• Support client briefing, feasibility work, procurement strategy and governance.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients across high-profile public and private sector projects.

What You'll Bring

• An architectural or design management background within an architectural practice, consultancy or client-side environment.
• Strong experience across early design: initiation, feasibility, concept, developed and detailed design.
• Proven capability working on complex projects preferably in healthcare, education or commercial sectors.
• Sound knowledge of NZ codes, consent processes and regulatory requirements (NZ experience is essential).
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders, designers, engineers, contractors, and councils, with clarity and confidence.
• Excellent communication, a collaborative style and the ability to work well within a high-performing, supportive team.

Why Join Precon

• Join a consultancy known for its strong culture, high-calibre team and exceptional long-term tenure.
• Genuine opportunities for growth and progression, supported by industry-leading senior technical leadership.
• Contribute to significant, meaningful projects that impact communities across New Zealand.
• Work alongside clients who value quality, strong design principles and early-stage expertise.
• Competitive remuneration and a stable, supportive environment where advisory skills are truly valued.

Please apply online or for a confidential conversation contact Olivia Langford-Lee on or email

Please note: Precon has partnered exclusively with Assemble Recruitment for this appointment, and all applications, including those made directly will be managed through this process with full confidentiality.