Job Title

Fantastic opportunity for a Design Manager to join a leading private equity backed organisation in London developing fantastic places.Role Summary:Seeking a proactive and experienced Design Manager to lead and coordinate design activities across a range of interior fit out projects, from on-site projects and liaising with development teams on new opportunities. Working closely with contractors and external consultants, the Design Manager will ensure the timely delivery of high-quality, buildable, and cost-effective design solutions. Ideally, the successful candidate will come from an architectural background and bring strong leadership, coordination, and technical skills to the role to ensure the project aligns with Group’s vision and requirements. Key Responsibilities:Design Coordination & ManagementLead the design development process from concept to construction across multiple projectsCoordinate the input of architects, engineers, planners, and other consultants to ensure alignment with project brief, programme, and budgetManage design team performance and output in line with agreed deliverables and quality standardsEnsure all designs are compliant with relevant building regulations, planning requirements, and health & safety standardsStakeholder & Consultant ManagementAct as the main point of contact between the client, contractor, and design consultantsBuild and maintain strong working relationships with external consultants, driving collaboration and accountabilityChair design team meetings to monitor progress, resolve issues, and communicate updatesManage scope, appointments, deliverables, and performance of external consultants throughout the design stagesTechnical & Construction IntegrationReview design information for buildability, coordination, and technical accuracyLiaise with the pre-construction, commercial, and construction teams to ensure the design supports procurement and construction activitiesProvide guidance on value engineering opportunities without compromising design intent or qualityManage the flow of design information to ensure smooth project deliveryRisk & Programme ManagementIdentify design-related risks and work proactively to mitigate themManage design programmes and ensure key milestones are metOversee the timely submission and approval of planning and building control applicationsSupport the tender process with coordinated design information and responses to queriesQualifications & Experience:Preferably degree-qualified in Architecture or a related design disciplinePrevious experience working for a contractor or design & build environment preferred on internal fit-out projectsMinimum 5 years’ experience in a Design Manager or senior architectural roleProven ability to manage multidisciplinary consultant teamsStrong knowledge of UK Building Regulations, planning policy, and construction methodsSkilled in using design coordination tools (AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks)Key Competencies:Exceptional communication and interpersonal skillsStrong leadership and decision-making capabilitiesExcellent organisational and time management abilitiesAbility to influence, challenge, and drive performance from external consultantsSolutions-focused with a keen eye for detail and buildabilityDesirable Attributes:Chartership with RIBA, ARB, or equivalent professional bodyExperience working across internal fit-out in hotel, retail, residential, commercial, or mixed-use projectsFamiliarity with BIM and digital collaboration platforms