Design Manager

Design Manager (Commercial Fit‑Out / D&B)

Salary: £60,000-£80,000 Location: London Sector: Main Contractor – Design & Build / CAT A & CAT B Fit‑Out Employment Type: Full‑Time, Permanent

🎯 About the Role

We are seeking a talented Design Manager to join a forward‑thinking commercial fit‑out contractor delivering high‑quality workplace environments across London. This is an opportunity to take ownership of the design process from pre‑construction through delivery, working closely with clients, designers, and project teams to bring innovative, sustainable, and technically robust solutions to life.

You'll be joining a business that values creativity, collaboration, and technical excellence-ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic, design‑led environment.

🛠️ Key Responsibilities

Design Leadership

Manage the full design process across CAT A and CAT B fit‑out projects, ensuring design intent is maintained through delivery.

Lead design workshops, client presentations, and coordination meetings.

Translate client briefs into clear design strategies and deliverables.

Technical Coordination

Review and challenge design information to ensure buildability, compliance, and cost efficiency.

Coordinate with architects, MEP consultants, subcontractors, and internal technical teams.

Ensure all design documentation is accurate, complete, and aligned with programme milestones.

Pre‑Construction & Tendering

Support bid teams with technical input, design solutions, and value engineering options.

Develop design programmes, risk registers, and scope documents.

Contribute to winning work through strong design narrative and presentation skills.

Project Delivery

Oversee design changes, RFIs, and technical queries during construction.

Ensure seamless communication between design, commercial, and site teams.

Maintain design quality, compliance, and client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.

🧩 What We're Looking For

Experience

Proven experience as a Design Manager within a main contractor, D&B contractor, or commercial fit‑out specialist.

Strong understanding of workplace design, MEP coordination, and technical detailing.

Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast‑paced environment.

Skills & Attributes

Confident communicator with excellent client‑facing skills.

Strong technical knowledge and ability to challenge design information constructively.

Collaborative mindset with the ability to influence and lead multidisciplinary teams.

Proactive, organised, and solutions‑driven.

Qualifications

Degree in Architecture, Interior Architecture, Engineering, or related field (preferred).

Professional accreditation (RIBA, CIAT, CIOB, or similar) beneficial but not essential.

🌱 Why Join

Work with a design‑focused contractor delivering high‑quality, innovative workplace environments.

Opportunity to shape projects from concept to completion.

Collaborative culture with strong emphasis on creativity, sustainability, and technical excellence.

Competitive salary, benefits, and clear progression opportunities.

Eden Brown is committed to equality in the workplace and is an equal opportunity employer