Design Manager

Position: Design Manager Location: London Salary: Competitive + Package (Bonus, Travel Allowance, Pension, Healthcare) The Company Our client is a Tier 1 main contractor with a strong presence in the high-end commercial fit-out and refurbishment sector. They are known for delivering complex, design-led projects across London and the UK, ranging in value from £5m to £150m+. With a strong order book and continued growth in the London market, they are looking to expand their team with the addition of a Design Manager. This is an excellent opportunity to join a business with a reputation for delivering quality, innovation, and technical excellence on fast-paced, high-specification schemes. The company provides a supportive team environment, structured career progression, and exposure to high-profile clients. The Role As a Design Manager, you will be responsible for managing all aspects of design coordination across fit-out projects, from early engagement through to delivery and handover. You’ll act as the key interface between the client, consultants, and project delivery teams, ensuring that design intent is maintained, information is delivered in line with programme, and construction requirements are fully integrated. Key Responsibilities: Lead the design process during both pre-construction and construction stages. Manage the timely flow of design information between consultants, subcontractors, and internal teams. Chair design workshops and technical meetings to resolve coordination issues. Review consultant and subcontractor design packages for compliance, buildability, and alignment with client expectations. Work closely with project teams to ensure timely delivery of design information in accordance with the construction programme. Identify and manage design risks and interface issues. Support the tender and bid process by reviewing employer’s requirements and contributing to contractor’s proposals. Coordinate all architectural, structural, and MEP elements to ensure full integration on site. Monitor and update design programmes and trackers. Ensure statutory compliance (Building Control, planning conditions, fire strategy, etc.). Liaise with clients, consultants, and supply chain partners to maintain collaborative working relationships. Assist with managing design changes and maintaining design intent during construction. Current/Upcoming Project Example: Project Value: £10M Scope: High-end Cat B office fit-out over multiple floors, including new reception areas, executive offices, open-plan workspace, client meeting suites, breakout areas, and high-quality finishes throughout. Candidate Profile: Proven experience as a Design Manager on fit-out or refurbishment projects in London. Strong understanding of Cat A and Cat B commercial office schemes. Background in architecture, engineering, or construction management is preferred. Ability to interpret drawings, technical documents, and design specifications. Excellent knowledge of UK building regulations and construction practices. Confident communicator with strong organisational skills. Comfortable managing multiple stakeholders and working to tight deadlines. Detail-focused and solutions-oriented approach to resolving design issues. The Offer: Competitive salary based on experience Bonus scheme Travel allowance Private healthcare Contributory pension Career development and progression within a growing business Exposure to flagship projects and blue-chip clients If you are an experienced Design Manager looking to join a market-leading contractor delivering landmark fit-out projects in London, we’d love to hear from you