Design Guardian

Mace combines construction expertise with consultancy to unlock potential in every person or project and redefine the boundaries of ambition. Our values shape the way we consult and define the people we want to join us on our journey.

The opportunity:

The design guardian supports the implementation and day-to-day operation of the client’s design governance, assurance framework and processes. The role coordinates assurance activities, monitors compliance and helps ensure that design outputs meet the client’s business, statutory, legal and contractual requirements. It requires practical knowledge of the RIBA plan of work and NEC contracts, together with the ability to provide clear design advice and escalate matters requiring senior direction.

Working under the direction of the governance assurance lead and alongside TA design disciplines and project teams, the design guardian coordinates design reviews, maintains governance records and supports consistent application of the client’s standards. The role tracks actions, risks, derogations and lessons learned; facilitates collaboration between stakeholders; and identifies issues for timely resolution or escalation. It contributes to continuous improvement while safeguarding agreed design principles and delivery requirements.

You’ll be responsible for:

• Coordinating technical assurance and design management across multiple projects.
• Facilitating multidisciplinary meetings and resolving design issues.
• Maintaining governance trackers, derogations and lessons learned.
• Reviewing design deliverables, documentation and programme compliance.
• Managing contractor engagement and multidisciplinary collaboration.
• Supporting design risk, changes, control points and stakeholder engagement.
• Monitoring CEMAR actions, MIDPs and technical requirements.
• Promoting technical excellence, continuous improvement and consistent best practice.

You’ll need to have:

• Relevant degree or equivalent experience, with RIBA, RICS or equivalent professional membership.
• Proven experience in design management, assurance or related disciplines.
• Strong knowledge of RIBA processes, design governance, contracts and building standards.
• Effective stakeholder coordination, communication, analysis and issue management skills.

Our values

Safety first - Going home safe and well: We champion a safe, diverse and inclusive working environment, understanding the importance of wellbeing in every team.

Client focus - Deliver on our promise: We own the quality of deliverables, strategic outcomes and build long term relationships with our clients.

Integrity - Always do the right thing: We influence positive outcomes within our industry, while always aligning with our compliance obligations.

Create opportunity - For our people to excel: We champion a continuous improvement culture throughout all activities, inspiring our people and teams to develop.

Mace is an inclusive employer and welcomes interest from a diverse range of candidates. Even if you feel you do not fulfil all the criteria, please apply as you may still be the best candidate for this role or another role within our organisation.

We are also open to discussing part time, flexible, and hybrid working options if suitable within the role.