A leading specialist interiors business is seeking an experienced Head of Design to take responsibility for its design function and lead a talented team delivering high-quality commercial interior and bespoke fit-out projects. The business specialises in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke interior solutions, working across commercial workplaces and residential developments. This is a senior position offering the opportunity to have a genuine influence on the design strategy, processes and continued growth of the business. The Role As Head of Design, you will lead the internal design team and oversee the design process from initial development through technical design, manufacturing and installation. You will work closely with clients, architects, contractors, suppliers and internal project teams to ensure designs are technically robust, commercially viable and capable of being delivered to a high standard. Key responsibilities: Lead, manage and develop the internal design team. Oversee design development and technical detailing across multiple projects. Manage design programmes, resources and technical deliverables. Ensure designs are practical, buildable and aligned with project requirements. Coordinate design information with manufacturing, commercial and project delivery teams. Work closely with architects, contractors, clients and specialist suppliers. Review technical drawings and design information. Resolve technical interfaces and design issues throughout project delivery. Ensure design quality and consistency across all projects. Support value engineering and design optimisation. Improve design processes, standards and workflows. Provide senior technical and design leadership across the business.The Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will have significant experience within a senior design management or design leadership position, ideally gained within: Commercial interior fit-out Bespoke joinery Specialist interiors Architectural joinery Workplace interiors Shopfitting or specialist constructionYou will ideally have: Proven experience managing and developing a design team. Strong technical design and detailing knowledge. Experience working on complex interior or specialist construction projects. An understanding of manufacturing, production and installation processes. Strong knowledge of design coordination and buildability. Excellent communication and stakeholder-management skills. The ability to manage multiple projects and competing priorities. Strong commercial awareness. A proactive approach to improving design processes and delivery.This role would suit an experienced Design Manager, Senior Design Manager, Design Director or Head of Design looking to take ownership of a design function within a growing specialist interiors business. What's on Offer Salary up to £85,000. Senior leadership position with responsibility for the design function. Opportunity to shape and develop the design team. Exposure to bespoke, high-quality interior projects. Opportunity to work across design, manufacturing and project delivery. Long-term opportunity within an established specialist business.If you are an experienced design professional with a background in commercial interiors, fit-out, bespoke joinery or specialist interior construction, we'd be keen to hear from you
Head of Design in West End employer: Brandon James
Join a well-established independent consultancy in Birmingham, where you will enjoy a dynamic work culture that fosters autonomy and direct client engagement. With a strong focus on professional development, the firm offers excellent benefits including a competitive salary, private healthcare, and opportunities for mentorship, making it an ideal environment for ambitious Chartered Building Surveyors looking to shape their careers while contributing to a growing team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Design in West End
✨Join Construction Networks
Get yourself involved in local construction networks or industry events. They often have job boards, and networking can lead to unadvertised positions. Plus, it’s a great way to meet potential future colleagues!
✨Show Off Your Skills on Site
If you’ve done any hands-on work, whether it's through internships or personal projects, make sure you can showcase it. Consider volunteering for local construction projects or getting involved in community build days; it’s a solid way to demonstrate your skills and build connections.
✨Utilise Construction Job Sites
Don't just rely on the big job boards. Look at niche construction job sites—many companies prioritise these for full-time roles. Apply through these sites, but don’t forget to reach out directly to companies you admire, like Brandon James, to express your interest!
✨Tailor Your Application for Full-Time Roles
Make your application stand out by tailoring it specifically for full-time positions. Highlight how your previous projects align with the company's work. At StudySmarter, we encourage you to demonstrate your commitment and long-term interest in the industry when applying for roles like Head of Design at Brandon James.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:In the construction industry, it's essential to highlight any hands-on experience you have. Whether it’s past projects you've worked on or specific roles you've held, make sure your CV emphasises your practical skills and contributions to construction sites.
Include Certifications and Qualifications:Don’t forget to list any certifications relevant to construction, like CSCS cards or other safety qualifications. These can really set you apart from other candidates and show that you’re serious about health and safety on-site.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Construction:When writing your cover letter for a construction role, focus on your problem-solving capabilities and teamwork. Construction relies heavily on collaboration, so mention how you’ve worked successfully with others to complete projects on time and within budget.
Adapt Your CV Format to the Field:Ensure your CV is clear and easy to read, with sections dedicated to skills such as project management, technical abilities, and site supervision. Construction roles often require a blend of technical know-how and soft skills, so make sure both are highlighted effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brandon James
✨Brush Up on Technical Knowledge
For a construction role, it's crucial we have a solid grasp of industry standards, safety protocols, and specific tools used on-site. Make sure you're familiar with relevant regulations and can talk confidently about them, as these often come up in interviews.
✨Showcase Your Projects
Since this is a full-time position, be ready to discuss any previous construction projects you've worked on. Bring a portfolio or have detailed descriptions that highlight your role, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them—this’ll show you’re not just book-smart but also practically savvy.
✨Understand the Team Dynamics
Construction is all about teamwork, so prepare to discuss how you interact with different stakeholders like architects, engineers, and contractors. Maybe think of examples from past experiences to illustrate your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively.
✨Prepare for On-the-Spot Problem Solving
Be ready for some practical questions or scenarios where you'll need to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Interviewers might present you with a hypothetical construction issue to solve, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically—this could really set you apart!
