Design Manager - Developer

_{10th August, 2026}

Design Manager | Multi-Residential Apartments | Private Developer 

The Company
This boutique Melbourne developer has earned a reputation for delivering thoughtfully designed apartment and mixed-use projects that place equal importance on architecture, community and long-term value.

Their approach to development is anything but conventional. Design sits at the centre of every decision, creating a unique point of difference that few developers can replicate. With genuine curiosity about spaces and places, they have built a business that extends beyond property through investments in hospitality, support for the arts, and meaningful contributions to the communities they help shape.

Relationships and collaboration are fundamental to their success. Whether working with consultants, builders, purchasers, or colleagues, respect, trust, and teamwork underpin how projects are delivered. Their B Corp Certification further reinforces their commitment to responsible development and long-term thinking.

With an exciting pipeline of projects currently under construction, there is now an opportunity for a Design Manager to join their growing team.

The Opportunity
Reporting to the Senior Development Manager and working closely with the Directors and Head of Construction Delivery, you will lead the design management process across three architecturally driven multi-residential developments.

Acting as the link between architects, consultants, builders, and the internal development team, you will be responsible for protecting the design intent while balancing programme, buildability, quality, and commercial outcomes throughout construction.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading consultant coordination through design development, documentation and construction.
• Reviewing documentation for coordination, completeness and buildability.
• Managing design changes throughout construction while maintaining design integrity.
• Supporting tendering, procurement and builder engagement.
• Coordinating RFIs and consultant responses throughout the construction phase.
• Undertaking regular site inspections and monitoring construction quality.
• Supporting feasibility reviews, value management and authority approvals.
• Working alongside the Sales and Marketing team to ensure purchaser documentation accurately reflects project outcomes.
• Building strong relationships with consultants, builders and internal stakeholders to ensure successful project delivery.

The Foundation for Success
This opportunity is ideally suited to a Senior Project Architect looking to move to a private developer and who is passionate about high-quality apartment developments.

To be successful, you will possess:

• Approximately 8+ years' experience delivering multi-residential apartment projects here in Australia
• Extensive construction-phase experience, including contract administration, RFIs, shop drawing reviews, and consultant coordination.
• A strong understanding of construction documentation and buildability.
• Commercial awareness with the ability to balance design excellence alongside programme and cost outcomes.
• Experience working collaboratively with architects, consultants and builders.
• Registration as an Architect will be highly regarded but is not essential.

Just as important as your technical capability is the way you approach your work.

This business is looking for someone who is:

• Collaborative and relationship-focused.
• Low ego with a genuine team-first mentality.
• Positive, approachable and solutions-focused.
• Comfortable contributing ideas and adding value.
• Helpful, respectful and willing to support those around them.
• Invested in the success of the broader business, not just their own projects.
• Someone who enjoys working with others and contributes positively to the culture every day.

The Benefits
This is an opportunity to join one of Melbourne's most respected boutique developers, working on projects recognised for their design quality and long-term contribution.

In return, you will receive:

• The opportunity to work across architecturally led multi-residential developments.
• Direct exposure to an experienced and highly respected leadership team.
• A genuinely collaborative and supportive culture where ideas are valued.
• Flexibility, including working from home on Wednesdays and support around family and personal commitments.
• A long-term opportunity to grow your career within a values-led organisation.

Interested?
For a confidential discussion, please contact Kylie Kilpatrick at Belkirk.

Alternatively, click Apply Now to submit your application.

Note: You must have full working rights for Australia to be considered for this role.