Design Manager

Design Manager - Luxury Fit-Out

Salary: £55,000 - £65,000 + flexibility for exceptional candidates Location: London

A leading specialist in high-end fit-out, refurbishment, and restoration is entering an exciting phase of delivery on a prestigious, high-profile luxury project. The team is seeking an experienced Design Manager who can confidently step into a fast-paced environment and contribute immediately. This opportunity is available on a permanent basis, with the option for freelance or temp-to-perm (3-6 months) for the right candidate.

You will work closely with the Senior Design Lead, client teams, consultants, and internal delivery teams to ensure design excellence from concept through to completion. This role is ideal for a technically strong, detail-driven professional with exceptional communication skills and experience in luxury environments.

Role Overview

As Design Manager, you will lead and coordinate all design activities across assigned luxury fit-out projects. You will manage multidisciplinary consultants, oversee design programmes, and ensure technical compliance, buildability, and alignment with project objectives. The role requires someone who can hit the ground running, bringing a strong understanding of structures, facades, and high-end fit-out processes.

Key Responsibilities

Manage and coordinate the design process across all project stages, ensuring alignment with programme, cost, and quality expectations

Act as the central liaison between clients, consultants, specialist subcontractors, and internal teams

Support the Senior Design Lead with design strategy, coordination, and technical compliance

Review, coordinate, and manage design information to ensure accuracy, buildability, and consistency

Lead design workshops, technical reviews, and coordination meetings

Ensure all designs comply with statutory regulations, planning conditions, building regulations, and employer's requirements

Identify and manage design risks, clashes, and value-engineering opportunities while maintaining design intent

Oversee design change control processes, ensuring all changes are clearly documented and communicated

Maintain strict confidentiality due to the high-profile nature of the project

Uphold professional standards in all client-facing communication and presentations

Key Competencies

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Excellent attention to detail with the ability to review technical information accurately

Ability to multitask and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment

Proactive problem-solving approach

Strong interest in architecture, interior design, and construction processes

Competent in Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, and design coordination platforms such as BIM 360 or similar

Qualifications & Experience

Proven experience as a Design Manager within luxury fit-out, high-end residential, hospitality, commercial, or similar premium construction sectors

Strong technical understanding of structures, facades, construction methodologies, detailing, and fit-out processes

Confident working directly with clients and senior consultants, with strong stakeholder-management skills

Highly organised with the ability to manage multiple workstreams simultaneously

Experienced in reviewing and coordinating consultant and subcontractor design information

Comfortable working under pressure and meeting strict deadlines

Proficient in design management tools; familiarity with BIM and digital coordination is advantageous

Degree in Architecture, Construction Management, Interior Architecture, Engineering, or a related field

Solid understanding of UK building regulations and construction processes

Personal Attributes

Professional, discreet, and polished in communication and presentation

Proactive, solutions-focused, and able to take ownership of design issues

Collaborative team player with the confidence to challenge constructively when required

Passionate about design quality and delivering exceptional outcomes

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