Associate Director CDM Principal Designer Services

An award-winning consultancy dedicated exclusively to the construction safety sector is seeking an experienced Associate Director to join their growing team. With a business unit turnover exceeding £3m and a strong team of 12+ CDM Principal Designers as part of the larger business, this is an opportunity to play a pivotal role in leading and shaping the business.

The company specialises in:

• Construction Health & Safety
• CDM 2015 Principal Designer Services
• Building Regulations Principal Designer
• Related advisory services

The Role

As Associate Director, you will report directly to the Board and take full leadership of a dedicated business unit, overseeing project delivery, team performance, and client relationships. You will lead the delivery of CDM Principal Designer services across a broad and varied project portfolio—ensuring safety and compliance are embedded throughout the design and construction process.

This is a senior leadership position, requiring strategic insight, operational excellence, and a strong technical background in CDM 2015 regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Principal Designer function across all projects, ensuring full compliance with CDM 2015 and relevant legislation.
• Act as the key contact and advisor for CDM-related guidance to clients, designers, contractors, and internal teams.
• Develop and implement CDM strategies and risk management procedures throughout the project lifecycle.
• Oversee the preparation and review of Pre-Construction Information and Health and Safety Files.
• Chair design risk reviews and workshops—championing a safety-first approach throughout project development.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a growing team of CDM professionals, promoting excellence and consistency.
• Support business growth by preparing and delivering impactful sales presentations, bids, and fee proposals.  This is supported by the Bid, tech and marketing team.
• Enhance company visibility by delivering training sessions and engaging with third-party stakeholders.
• Attend and represent the business at face-to-face client and supplier meetings.
• Continuously improve the delivery and efficiency of CDM and Principal Designer services.

• Proven experience as a Principal Designer under CDM 2015, ideally from a consultancy or client-side environment.
• In-depth knowledge of health & safety legislation across the construction and development sectors.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and client-facing skills.

• Degree or Diploma in a relevant field such as Health & Safety, Construction, or Design (preferred).
• Chartered or Incorporated membership of a professional body such as IOSH, APS, RICS, or CIOB (preferred).

This is a rare opportunity to join a respected, specialist consultancy where your leadership will shape the future of CDM and construction safety delivery across the UK.