Due to increased project demands and a commitment to delivering high-quality design solutions, we are seeking an experienced and dynamic Design Manager to join and lead our growing operations in Townsville. This senior role requires a strategic leader with a passion for design excellence, strong technical expertise, and the ability to guide a team through the full lifecycle of architectural projects.

Role Overview:

As Design Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of architectural design, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and promoting innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective design solutions. You will manage the coordination between design teams, clients, consultants, and construction teams to ensure seamless project delivery aligned with client expectations and organisational goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the architectural design function across multiple projects, providing technical guidance, review, and quality assurance to maintain high design standards.

Manage and mentor a team of architects and designers, fostering professional growth and encouraging creativity and innovation within the team.

Oversee the development of detailed design documentation, drawings, and specifications using ArchiCAD and other 3D modelling tools.

Collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, contractors, and stakeholders to coordinate design inputs and ensure constructability.

Ensure all design work complies with relevant building codes, regulations, and environmental standards applicable in Australia and the broader Pacific region.

Participate in client meetings and presentations, representing the design team and contributing to successful client relationships and business development.

Manage multiple projects concurrently, maintaining schedules, budgets, and resources effectively to meet project milestones and deliverables.

Drive continuous improvement in design processes and implement best practices for efficiency and innovation.

Lead risk management and problem-solving initiatives related to design challenges and construction issues.

Skills and Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or a related discipline (a Master’s degree is advantageous).

Australian Registered Architect or equivalent professional accreditation is highly desirable.

At least 5 years of progressive experience in architectural design, including proven leadership roles with a strong portfolio demonstrating successful project delivery.

Expert proficiency in ArchiCAD and other relevant 3D modelling and design software.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively engage with diverse teams, clients, and external partners.

Strong leadership and team-building capabilities, with a focus on mentoring and developing junior designers and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Proven project management skills, including the ability to handle multiple concurrent projects, prioritise tasks, and manage resources efficiently.

A proactive and solution-oriented mindset, with the ability to anticipate and resolve design and construction issues.

Knowledge of local construction practices, regulatory frameworks, and environmental considerations in Papua New Guinea and the Pacific region is a strong advantage.

About You:

You are a motivated and visionary design professional with a passion for architectural excellence and sustainable design. Your leadership inspires your team to deliver creative and practical solutions that exceed client expectations. You thrive in dynamic, cross-cultural environments and enjoy building strong relationships internally and externally. Your combination of technical expertise, management experience, and strategic thinking positions you as a key contributor to our organisation’s growth and success in the Pacific region.

As the successful candidate, you will demonstrate strong leadership capability, proven relationship building and people management skills, complemented with well-developed communication, interpersonal and influencing abilities.