Design Manager - Fit Out & NB

Design Manager

Fit Out Contractor

Essex / Herts Border

£60,000 - £70,000 and package

CSC Recruitment are seeking to source a Design Manager who has experience of working in the commercial, retail, hospitality and aviation fit out market for a medium sized contractor based in Central London.

This contractor has an annual turnover of c.£50 million and has already secured 90% for next year. They have fostered an excellent relationship with one particular client whom they have secured plenty of work for moving forward. Hence, they are seeking a Design Manager to work solely for their projects.

They are seeking a Design Manager to work within a design team consisting of 6 other Design Managers and reporting to the Design Lead. Suitable candidates will be a stand-alone Design Manager who is based on site and capable of pre-construction input, attending tender interviews, on site management and strong communication skills.

This is a site-based role on the Herts/Essex border.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Project Design Management:
   Oversee the design process for commercial fit out projects from inception to completion, ensuring designs meet client specifications, project scope, and industry standards. Manage and lead internal design teams (architects, interior designers, space planners) and external consultants (engineers, MEP consultants, etc.). Coordinate the design phases including conceptualisation, schematic design, detailed design, and construction documentation. Ensure design consistency, quality, and alignment with the project brief throughout the project life cycle.
2. Client & Stakeholder Engagement:
   Act as the primary point of contact for clients during the design phase, ensuring all client requirements are incorporated and addressed. Collaborate with key stakeholders including landlords, property managers, building inspectors, and regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with codes and regulations. Present design concepts, progress, and updates to clients and project teams for feedback and approvals.
3. Budget & Timeline Management:
   Work closely with the commercial and project management teams to ensure that designs are cost-effective, feasible, and within project budgets. Assist in the preparation of project budgets and provide design input for cost planning and value engineering where necessary. Monitor design progress and ensure timely completion of design deliverables in line with project milestones and construction schedules.
4. Regulatory & Compliance:
   Ensure all design work complies with relevant building regulations, fire codes, health and safety standards, and any other local/national legislation. Manage the submission and approval process for permits and other regulatory documentation.
5. Team Leadership & Development:
   Conduct regular design reviews and ensure design teams adhere to best practices, technical standards, and company procedures. Coordinate and collaborate with project managers, procurement teams, and construction teams to ensure smooth project delivery.
6. Design Documentation & Communication:
   Oversee the production of detailed design drawings, specifications and schedules for commercial fit outs, ensuring accuracy and clarity. Maintain and manage all design documentation, ensuring all revisions and updates are properly recorded and communicated to relevant stakeholders.
7. Problem Solving & Troubleshooting:
   Identify design issues early in the project and work proactively with teams to resolve design conflicts, constructability issues, or unforeseen challenges. Provide technical advice and design solutions when required during the construction phase.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

1. Technical Skills:
   Minimum 5-7 years of experience in design management within commercial fit out. Strong knowledge of building codes, regulations, and construction processes in commercial environments. Proficient in design software (Auto CAD, Sketch Up, Rev it, etc.). Familiarity with project management software (MS Project, Primavera, etc.).
2. Personal Attributes:
   Strong leadership and team management skills. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to convey complex design concepts to clients and non-technical stakeholders. Highly organised and detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. Problem-solving mindset with a proactive approach to design challenges. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

For full information about this Design Manager role, please apply now.