Design Manager

JR United Kingdom; Chatham; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Design Manager to join their dynamic team in Chatham. This role offers the chance to drive design strategies and coordinate multidisciplinary teams on high-quality commercial fit-out projects. You'll be at the forefront of ensuring that design information is accurate and aligns with project goals, while also managing risks and collaborating closely with project managers. If you have a strong technical background and excellent communication skills, this opportunity could be your next career step in a vibrant and supportive environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Design Manager in commercial fit out projects.
• Strong technical background and knowledge of building regulations.

Responsibilities

• Manage the design process from pre-construction to handover.
• Lead design meetings with clients and internal teams.
• Ensure compliance with statutory requirements and regulations.

Skills

Design Management

Stakeholder Management

Technical Knowledge

Communication Skills

Risk Identification

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Navisworks

Job description

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I am currently recruiting for a Design Manager to join one of my clients based in Chatham. They are a well-established main contractor, delivering high-quality commercial fit out and cut & carve projects across Kent and London.

This is a dynamic role where you’ll play a key part in driving design strategies, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and delivering exceptional project outcomes.

Responsibilities:

• Manage the design process from pre-construction through to handover
• Lead design meetings and workshops with clients, architects, consultants, and internal teams
• Review and coordinate all designs
• Ensure design information is accurate, buildable, and aligns with programme and budget
• Identify design risks and drive solutions to resolve coordination issues
• Collaborate closely with project managers, commercial teams, and site teams
• Ensure compliance with all statutory requirements and regulations
• Assist with planning submissions, building control, and technical approvals

The ideal candidate will be:

• Proven experience as a Design Manager. Ideally within commercial fit out and/or cut & carve projects
• Strong technical background
• Comfortable working across Cat A, Cat B, and structural reconfiguration schemes
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Knowledge of relevant building regs, CDM, and planning processes
• Proficient in reviewing drawings using software like AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, etc