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- Tasks: Lead design coordination for high-profile construction projects from concept to site start.
- Company: Join a leading construction and development business making waves in the industry.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, mentorship opportunities, and a chance to shape future talent.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on prestigious projects while fostering a culture of design excellence.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in design management within construction, with strong communication and leadership skills.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor junior team members and drive continuous improvement in design delivery.
The predicted salary is between 56000 - 84000 £ per year.
Principal Consultant – Commercial Fit‑Out
This is a hands‑on design leadership role within a busy, high‑quality commercial fit‑out contractor.
You’ll own design standards and delivery across large fit‑out and refurbishment programmes, driving projects from concept through to completion. You’ll be the go‑to design lead for internal teams, project managers and external consultants – confident, decisive and commercially astute. This isn’t about design in isolation; it’s about shaping spaces that work beautifully and perform technically, while keeping projects on track and clients happy.
Responsibilities
- Oversee design direction and delivery on large commercial fit‑out and refurbishment projects.
- Take full ownership of design quality, clarity and integration across all stages.
- Lead and manage internal design teams with clear direction and accountability.
- Collaborate directly with project managers to align design with programme, budget and client expectations.
- Coordinate with external design consultants and contractors to ensure design intent is realised on site.
- Present design ideas confidently to stakeholders and adapt based on constructive feedback.
- Maintain design documentation and drive ideas that are practical and buildable.
Requirements
- Significant experience managing design on commercial fit‑out/refurbishment projects.
- Previous experience at a renowned London contractor highly advantageous.
- Strong leadership skills with a track record of guiding design teams and influencing cross‑functional partners.
- Confident communicator with the ability to represent design decisions to clients and stakeholders.
- Excellent technical understanding of construction, detailing and buildability.
- Commercial awareness and a pragmatic mindset.
- Proficiency in design tools (Revit, Adobe Suite) and clear documentation skills.
If you are interested in learning more, please email claudia@bigblue.uk.com with your CV and Portfolio.
Seniority level
Mid‑Senior level
Employment type
Full‑time
Job function
Art/Creative
Industries
Construction and Architecture and Planning
London, England, United Kingdom
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Senior Design Manager employer: Bigblue
Contact Detail:
Bigblue Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Design Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the construction and design industry. Attend relevant events, seminars, or workshops where you can meet potential colleagues or mentors who might provide insights into the role and company culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in design management. Being knowledgeable about current tools and methodologies can set you apart during discussions with hiring managers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've managed that align with the job requirements. Highlight your experience in delivering large-scale projects and how you overcame challenges in design coordination and compliance.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills by sharing examples of how you've mentored junior team members or improved design processes in previous roles. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire a team effectively.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Design Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager. Focus on projects you've delivered from design to site start, especially those within the £50m-£100m range.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for design excellence and your ability to lead teams. Mention specific projects where you’ve successfully managed design coordination and compliance.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Include your proficiency in design and project management software like AutoCAD, Revit, and EDMS in your application. Highlight any relevant certifications or training that demonstrate your expertise.
Demonstrate Leadership Experience: In your application, provide examples of how you've mentored junior team members and contributed to continuous improvement in design delivery. This will show your leadership capabilities and collaborative approach.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bigblue
✨Showcase Your Design Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous projects in detail, especially those that align with the role's requirements. Highlight your experience in managing design processes from concept to site start, and be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Senior Design Manager, you'll need to lead teams effectively. Share specific instances where you've mentored junior team members or led a consultant team. Emphasise your collaborative approach and how it has contributed to project success.
✨Understand Compliance and Regulations
Familiarise yourself with relevant Building Regulations and Planning conditions. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in past projects and how you would approach these aspects in the new role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about design coordination, value engineering, and project management software like AutoCAD and Revit. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be prepared to explain how you've used these tools to enhance project delivery.
