Design Manager
Keyman Personnel are working in partnership with a leading main contractor to recruit an experienced Design Manager with proven expertise in Cut & Carve refurbishment within the commercial sector. This is an exciting opportunity to join a well-established contractor renowned for delivering high-profile commercial redevelopments across central London and major UK cities.
You’ll be leading the design process on technically demanding refurbishment and fit-out schemes — often involving complex structural modifications, retained façades, and live environments.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead the design coordination on Cut & Carve commercial projects, ensuring effective integration of structural works, building services, and architectural finishes.
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Oversee technical reviews of subcontractor and consultant drawings for accuracy, compliance, and buildability.
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Drive collaboration between structural engineers, services consultants, architects, and site delivery teams.
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Ensure all designs meet current Building Regulations, CDM 2015, and client-specific compliance standards.
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Manage the release of design information to meet project timelines and procurement milestones.
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Coordinate temporary works and structural alterations, including liaison with in-house and external designers.
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Chair design coordination meetings, reporting risks, actions, and progress to internal and external stakeholders.
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Support value engineering and design optimisation while maintaining programme and quality standards.
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Interface with commercial teams to ensure design decisions align with cost plans and procurement strategies.
Requirements
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Minimum 5 years' experience as a Design Manager or Senior Design Coordinator, ideally within commercial refurbishment or mixed-use developments.
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Demonstrable experience on Cut & Carve projects involving complex structural changes and temporary works.
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Technical understanding of core commercial systems – HVAC, lighting, fire strategy, BREEAM, etc.
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Strong working knowledge of UK Building Regulations, planning constraints, and compliance processes.
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Able to read and critique design drawings, coordinate clash detection, and manage drawing packages.
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Excellent communication, organisational, and leadership skills.
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Proficient in MS Office; experience with design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or Navisworks is beneficial.
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Degree-qualified in Architecture, Engineering, or Construction Management is preferred