Design Manager (Dry Lining)

Job Title: Design Manager
Location: London
Working Pattern: 4 days in the office / 1 day from home
Start Date: ASAP
Overview:
This is an excellent opportunity to join one of the UK and Ireland’s leading specialist interior and façade contractors, delivering technically complex, design-led schemes across the commercial, residential, and hospitality sectors. The company is recognised for its expertise in drylining, suspended ceilings, partitions, façades, and bespoke interior finishes, working with major main contractors and developers on prestigious London projects.
As Design Manager, you will take ownership of the design coordination process on a high-end residential scheme with luxury spa facilities, managing internal and external stakeholders and ensuring design intent, technical compliance, and buildability are achieved. You’ll lead coordination across multiple disciplines including drylining, suspended ceilings, and façade interfaces, ensuring seamless project delivery.
Key Responsibilities:
*
Review all design information to understand project requirements (K10, K40, Fire Strategy, Acoustic Strategy, detailing, etc.).
*
Review contract documents to define design responsibilities and scope.
*
Liaise with architects, main contractors, building control, and consultants through design meetings and workshops.
*
Coordinate and integrate design information with other trades such as MEP, joinery, and façades.
*
Work closely with manufacturers and suppliers to ensure compliance with system requirements, develop specifications, and produce technical detailing.
*
Produce technical submittals, fabrication drawings, and supporting documentation.
*
Set up and manage the design deliverables schedule, tracking progress against the programme.
*
Oversee the issuing, tracking, and recording of project RFIs and design variations.
*
Ensure all designs comply with current Building Regulations and British Standards.
*
Attend site to review areas requiring technical input and resolve buildability challenges.
*
Support estimating and commercial teams with technical queries and design clarifications.
*
Identify and communicate design risks, opportunities, and the commercial implications of design changes.
*
Mentor and support design coordinators, sharing technical expertise and developing best practices.
*
Contribute to the ongoing development of design department procedures and technical standards.
Requirements:
*
Proven experience in drylining, suspended ceilings, and façade systems, ideally within high-end residential or commercial fit-out.
*
Strong technical understanding of construction detailing, sequencing, and design coordination.
*
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
*
Experience leading internal design teams and liaising directly with clients, consultants, and contractors.
*
Knowledge of AutoCAD beneficial but not essential