At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage design coordination on a high-profile construction project with evolving client needs.
- Company: Join a leading main contractor in the construction sector.
- Benefits: Freelance contract with competitive pay and potential for extension.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with immediate start and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting mixed-use scheme and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management and bespoke fit-out projects required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Location: Lancashire
Duration: 4-6 Months
Start Date: May 2026
Sector: Construction / Bespoke Fit-Out
We are seeking an experienced Design Manager to join a Main contractor on a large new build project in Lancashire on a freelance/contract basis. This is a site-based role working closely with the Project Delivery team on a high-profile mixed-use scheme featuring complex fit-out, bar, food, and entertainment spaces. The project is currently programmed for completion in September 2026, with a strong possibility of extending through to November 2026.
The Role
Reporting into the senior project team, you will play a key role managing design coordination during the live construction phase, with a significant volume of design change and evolving client requirements anticipated throughout the works.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Managing and coordinating design information during construction
- Working closely with subcontractors, consultants, and the delivery team
- Handling ongoing design changes and RFIs across fit-out packages
- Ensuring programme and buildability considerations are maintained
- Supporting commercial and operational teams with technical coordination
- Driving resolution of design issues on site in a fast-paced environment
Candidate Requirements
We are specifically looking for candidates with:
- Proven experience as a Design Manager on complex construction projects
- Strong background in bespoke fit-out, hospitality, bar, leisure, or entertainment environments
- Experience working on live site projects during delivery phase
- Ability to manage high levels of design change and coordination
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- Main contractor experience preferred
Project Details
- +£30m town centre development project
- Fast-moving delivery environment
- Immediate requirement with start before end of May 2026
If you have the relevant fit-out and entertainment sector experience and are available for an immediate start, we would like to hear from you. Please contact Mark Warrington for further details.
Design Manager - Live Construction & Bespoke Fit-Out employer: Anderselite
Join a leading main contractor in Lancashire, where you will be part of a dynamic team working on a high-profile mixed-use development. Our company fosters a collaborative work culture that values innovation and adaptability, providing ample opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement in the fast-paced construction sector. With a focus on bespoke fit-out projects, we offer a unique chance to contribute to exciting designs while enjoying the benefits of a supportive environment and potential for contract extension.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Live Construction & Bespoke Fit-Out
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the construction and fit-out sectors. Let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities, and who knows? They might just have the inside scoop on a Design Manager role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Get your portfolio ready! Showcase your previous projects, especially those involving bespoke fit-outs and complex designs. A well-organised portfolio can really set you apart when you’re chatting with potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your communication skills. You’ll need to demonstrate how you handle design changes and coordinate with various teams. Practice explaining your past experiences in a way that highlights your problem-solving abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be what you’re looking for. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Live Construction & Bespoke Fit-Out
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in design management, especially in complex construction projects. We want to see how your background aligns with the bespoke fit-out and entertainment sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of your past work that demonstrate your ability to manage design changes and coordinate with various teams on live sites.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key in this role, make sure to highlight your stakeholder management skills in your application. We love seeing how you’ve successfully navigated complex project environments in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at Anderselite
✨Know Your Project Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the specifics of the project you'll be managing. Familiarise yourself with the design changes and challenges that may arise during the live construction phase. This will not only show your enthusiasm but also your readiness to tackle the complexities of the role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Design Manager, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with subcontractors, consultants, and delivery teams in past projects. Highlighting your ability to manage relationships will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Design Change Scenarios
Expect questions about handling design changes and RFIs. Think of specific instances where you successfully managed high levels of design change. Discuss your approach to problem-solving and how you ensure that programme and buildability considerations are maintained.
✨Demonstrate Your Fast-Paced Experience
Given the fast-moving nature of this project, be ready to discuss your experience in similar environments. Share stories that illustrate your ability to thrive under pressure and drive resolution of design issues on-site. This will reassure the interviewers of your capability to handle their dynamic work environment.
