At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design management for exciting Retail Banking projects with a top UK contractor.
- Company: Join one of the UK's largest Tier 1 main contractors in a dynamic environment.
- Benefits: Competitive pay, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Minimal travel required, with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape design strategy and make a real impact on high-profile banking projects.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Design Manager with a focus on Retail Banking projects.
Location: London or Luton Office (Hybrid)
Pay Rate: £400 - £450 per day (outside IR35)
Contract: 12-24 months (ongoing portfolio)
The Role
Following several major project wins, you will join a growing framework portfolio, taking responsibility for design delivery across multiple fast-paced projects at one of the UK’s largest Tier 1 main contractors. You will work directly with the Technical Director and Principal Design Manager, playing a key role in shaping design strategy and driving delivery across a portfolio of Retail Banking projects. While the role supports a national Retail Banking framework, travel requirements are minimal, with site visits planned efficiently and very limited overnight stays.
Candidate Profile
You will be a confident Design Manager with main contractor experience and a proven track record delivering Retail Banking projects. You will be comfortable managing concurrent projects in live or security-sensitive environments and building relationships with clients, consultants, and internal delivery teams.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design management process, coordinating architects, structural, MEP, and specialist designers
- Develop and manage detailed design programmes aligned to construction sequencing
- Ensure design compliance with Retail Banking standards, security requirements, and statutory approvals
- Act as the key design interface between client, consultants, and delivery teams
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Design Manager for a main contractor
- Demonstrable delivery of Retail Banking projects within live or regulated environments
- Strong technical coordination, programme management, and stakeholder communication skills
Design Manager - Retail Banking in London employer: Velocity Recruitment
As a Design Manager at one of the UK's largest Tier 1 main contractors, you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work culture that prioritises innovation and collaboration. With opportunities for professional growth and development, this role offers a competitive pay rate and the flexibility of a hybrid working model from either London or Luton, ensuring a balanced work-life experience while contributing to impactful Retail Banking projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager - Retail Banking in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the industry, especially those who have experience in Retail Banking projects. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that might not even be advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, bring along examples of your past work. Highlight your experience with design management and how you've successfully delivered Retail Banking projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s recent projects and their approach to design management. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in their work.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that match your skills. 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 - Retail Banking in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Design Manager role in Retail Banking. Highlight your experience with main contractors and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
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 or experiences that relate to design management in retail banking, and show us your passion for the industry.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:As a Design Manager, you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders. In your application, give examples of how you've successfully managed relationships with clients and teams in the past. We love to see strong communication skills!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows us you're keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Velocity Recruitment
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re familiar with your past Retail Banking projects. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This shows you can handle the fast-paced environment they’re looking for.
✨Brush Up on Design Management Processes
Since you’ll be leading the design management process, it’s crucial to understand the latest trends and standards in design delivery. Prepare to talk about how you coordinate with architects and other specialists, as well as how you ensure compliance with security requirements.
✨Showcase Your Stakeholder Skills
This role requires strong communication skills, so think of examples where you’ve successfully built relationships with clients and internal teams. Be ready to explain how you manage expectations and keep everyone aligned throughout the project lifecycle.
✨Prepare Questions About Their Framework
Demonstrate your interest by preparing insightful questions about their national Retail Banking framework. Ask about their approach to design strategy and how they handle concurrent projects. This shows you’re not just interested in the role, but also in how you can contribute to their success.
