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 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 45000 - 60000 € 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 in Lancaster employer: Anderselite
Join a dynamic main contractor in Lancashire, where your expertise as a Design Manager will be valued in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. With a focus on bespoke fit-out projects, you'll benefit from a culture that prioritises innovation and professional growth, alongside competitive remuneration and the opportunity to work on high-profile developments. This role not only offers immediate engagement in a significant town centre project but also the potential for contract extension, making it an excellent choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Live Construction & Bespoke Fit-Out in Lancaster
✨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 best work in bespoke fit-out and complex projects. When you land that interview, having a visual representation of your experience can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to design management and construction. Think about how you’ve handled design changes and coordination in past projects, and be ready to share those stories.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’re always on the lookout for talented individuals like you. By applying directly, you’ll ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you might even get a chance to connect with our team personally.
We think you need these skills to ace Design Manager - Live Construction & Bespoke Fit-Out in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in managing design coordination and working on complex construction projects, especially in bespoke fit-out and entertainment sectors. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention specific projects you've worked on that relate to the job description, and show us your passion for the construction and fit-out industry.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Design Manager, you'll need excellent communication skills. In your application, give examples of how you've effectively managed stakeholders and resolved design issues on site. This will help us see your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get all the updates about your application status. Plus, it shows us you're keen to join our team!
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 and consultants in past projects. Highlighting your ability to manage relationships and resolve issues will set you apart.
✨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 maintaining programme and buildability considerations while ensuring client satisfaction.
✨Demonstrate Your Fast-Paced Adaptability
Given the fast-moving nature of this project, be ready to discuss how you've thrived in similar environments. Share stories that illustrate your ability to adapt quickly and drive resolution of design issues on-site, showcasing your problem-solving skills under pressure.
