Design Manager
Design Manager – Specialist Joinery & Fit Out Contractor
Location: Holborn, London | Salary: Up to £80,000 + Package | Start Date: Within 1 Month
The Company
A well-established and highly respected specialist joinery and fit out contractor based in Central London is seeking a Design Manager to join their growing team. With over 20 years of experience, this contractor delivers bespoke joinery packages across high-end commercial projects, including office fit outs, receptions and luxury interiors.
Their projects range in value from £250k to £3.5 million, working closely with tier one main contractors, architects and design consultants. The business prides itself on craftsmanship, technical excellence and a collaborative, solutions-focused approach.
The Opportunity
You will report directly to the Operations Director and manage a team of 4 CAD Designers, overseeing the production and coordination of joinery design packages.
This is a leadership role focused on coordination, design management and team oversight, rather than hands-on drawing production. You will liaise closely with Main Contractors' Design Managers and Architects but will not be expected to attend frequent external meetings.
Key Responsibilities
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Lead and support a team of CAD Designers working across up to 10 live projects, managing drawing outputs ranging from 50 to 250 drawings per project.
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Coordinate subcontractor design input, ensuring compliance with project specifications and industry regulations.
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Act as the internal liaison between the design team and external stakeholders such as main contractors and architects.
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Review, approve and manage joinery design packages through to sign-off.
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Maintain quality control across all drawing outputs and ensure project timelines are met.
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Provide guidance and feedback to your team and ensure a collaborative, well-organised design process.
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Ensure buildability, fire compliance, and joinery best practices are integrated into all design packages.
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Use AutoCAD to review drawings and support the design process where needed.
Candidate Requirements
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Extensive experience in bespoke joinery design and fit out is essential.
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Previous experience managing or leading a design team in a fast-paced, multi-project environment.
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Proven track record coordinating with architects, main contractors and manufacturing teams.
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Proficient in AutoCAD and knowledgeable about joinery detailing, materials, and production methods.
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Excellent communication and organisational skills.
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Able to work from the Holborn-based office 4 days a week, with 1 day remote.
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Strong team player with a proactive, solution-led mindset.
Salary & Benefits
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Up to £80,000 per annum (PAYE)
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4 weeks annual leave, increasing by 1 day per year of service (up to 25 days)
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Private healthcare
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Working hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm, Monday to Friday
Why Apply?
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a company with a strong reputation in the joinery and fit out space, delivering technically challenging and design-led projects. You’ll be working alongside a friendly and experienced team in a company that values communication, teamwork and high-quality output