At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design process for exciting commercial fit-out projects from start to finish.
- Company: Dynamic company focused on innovative commercial interiors.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Other info: Join a supportive team with opportunities for growth and creativity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in fast-paced projects while showcasing your design leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in design management and strong knowledge of building regulations required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This role offers the opportunity for a Design Manager to take ownership of the design function across fast-paced commercial fit-out projects. You will be a key member of the senior project team, taking ownership of the design management process from tender through to construction and handover on fast-paced commercial interiors projects. This role requires a strong understanding of design coordination, technical compliance, programme control and buildability within a fit-out environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage the design process across commercial fit-out and refurbishment projects, from tender stage through to construction stage design information.
- Interpret client briefs and Employer’s Requirements, developing coordinated, compliant and buildable design solutions.
- Build strong relationships with clients and professional teams during early design stages, managing expectations around programme, cost and specification.
- Chair and manage design team meetings and workshops, driving cost-effective and programme-led design outcomes.
- Coordinate consultants, specialist subcontractors and internal delivery teams, managing interfaces across architectural, M&E, structural and specialist fit-out packages.
- Manage and control the production and flow of design information to align with procurement and construction programmes.
- Identify and mitigate design risks, clashes and buildability issues, particularly within live environments and phased delivery programmes.
- Apply value engineering principles throughout the design phase while maintaining quality and client objectives.
- Review Contractor’s Proposals, qualifications, scope documents and tender design information to ensure compliance.
- Develop and manage scope sheets for design and trade packages in collaboration with Project and Commercial Managers.
- Monitor design performance using KPIs and proactively address underperformance within the design team.
- Support subcontractor selection and review subcontractor-designed elements.
- Manage consultant appointments and novations, ensuring clear scope, responsibilities and deliverables.
Skills, Knowledge & Experience:
- Proven experience as a Design Manager within commercial fit-out, refurbishment interiors.
- Strong working knowledge of Building Regulations relevant to commercial interiors.
- Strong understanding of M&E design coordination.
- Knowledge of sustainability standards including BREEAM / environmental requirements.
- Degree qualified in a relevant construction or architectural discipline.
- Professional qualification (RIBA).
- Strong technical construction knowledge with practical site experience.
- Experience using collaborative design platforms and MS Office packages.
- Experience with design programme management tools (e.g. Powerproject) - advantageous.
- BIM awareness and experience working in a coordinated design environment.
Personal Attributes:
- Clear and confident communicator, comfortable working with clients, consultants and site teams.
- Highly organised, proactive and delivery-focused.
- Strong problem-solver with a practical, commercial mindset.
- Able to manage multiple workstreams in a fast-paced environment.
- Client-focused and relationship-driven.
- Comfortable working autonomously while contributing to a wider project team.
- Demonstrates strong leadership and accountability.
Interested in leading the design process on commercial fit-out projects? This role offers a strong platform to do just that.
Design Manager in London employer: Austin Recruitment LTD
As a Design Manager at our company, you will thrive in a dynamic and collaborative work environment that prioritises innovation and excellence in commercial fit-out projects. We offer competitive benefits, a strong focus on professional development, and the opportunity to lead impactful design initiatives while building lasting relationships with clients and teams. Our commitment to sustainability and quality ensures that you will be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values your contributions and supports your career growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend design events, and join relevant online forums. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your work! Create a portfolio that highlights your best design projects, especially those in commercial fit-out. Make it visually appealing and easy to navigate, so potential employers can see your skills at a glance.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs, especially around design management and compliance. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities waiting for talented Design Managers like you. 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 in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in commercial fit-out projects and any relevant qualifications. We want to see how your skills align with 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. Share specific examples of your design management experience and how you've tackled challenges in fast-paced environments.
Showcase Your Technical Knowledge:Since this role requires a strong understanding of design coordination and technical compliance, make sure to mention your knowledge of Building Regulations and M&E design coordination. We love seeing candidates who are well-versed in these areas!
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Austin Recruitment LTD
✨Know Your Design Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of design coordination and technical compliance. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed design processes in past projects, especially in fast-paced environments. This will show that you understand the role inside out.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Design Manager, you'll need to communicate effectively with clients and teams. Prepare examples of how you've built strong relationships and managed expectations in previous roles. Highlight your ability to chair meetings and drive design outcomes.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving
Expect questions about how you've identified and mitigated design risks in the past. Think of specific instances where you tackled buildability issues or clashes during live projects. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and problem-solving skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Tools and Regulations
Brush up on your knowledge of relevant Building Regulations and sustainability standards like BREEAM. If you have experience with design programme management tools or collaborative design platforms, be sure to mention it. This shows you're technically savvy and ready to hit the ground running.
