Pre-Construction Design Manager

Hill & Hill Recruitment Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A reputable recruitment agency is seeking an experienced Pre-Construction Design Manager to oversee design coordination for refurbishment and fit-out projects across London. Ideal candidates should possess an architectural background and proven management experience in pre-construction roles. The role offers a salary between £70,000 and £80,000, along with competitive benefits and opportunities for career progression within a supportive team at a respected contractor.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package

Long-term career progression

Exposure to high-quality projects

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a pre-construction or design management role.
• Architectural background is essential.
• Strong experience delivering fit-out and refurbishment projects.
• Strong technical knowledge and ability to manage multiple design disciplines.

Responsibilities

• Managing the design process throughout the pre-construction phase.
• Coordinating architects, consultants, and specialist subcontractors.
• Reviewing drawings, specifications, and technical information for buildability.
• Leading design workshops and technical reviews.
• Supporting bid teams with design input for tenders.
• Ensuring design solutions align with programme and client requirements.
• Acting as the main design point of contact prior to site commencement.

Skills

Design management

Communication skills

Coordination skills

Technical knowledge

Education

Architectural background

Job description

We are working with a well-established UK & Ireland main contractor delivering high-quality fit out and refurbishment projects across London and the South East. Due to continued growth within their pre‑construction team, we are recruiting for an experienced Pre‑Construction Design Manager to support upcoming tenders and live pre‑construction schemes.

This role would suit someone from an architectural background who has moved into a contractor or client‑side position and is comfortable managing design coordination during the early stages of refurbishment and fit‑out projects. This opportunity is not suited to candidates from a Tier 1 background, as the business operates in a more hands‑on and agile environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Managing the design process throughout the pre‑construction phase
• Coordinating architects, consultants, and specialist subcontractors
• Reviewing drawings, specifications, and technical information for buildability
• Leading design workshops and technical reviews
• Supporting bid teams with design input for tenders and pre‑construction submissions
• Ensuring design solutions align with programme, cost, and client requirements
• Acting as the main design point of contact prior to site commencement

Experience & Requirements

• Proven experience in a pre‑construction or design management role
• Architectural background is essential
• Strong experience delivering fit‑out and refurbishment projects
• Experience working for a main contractor (non Tier 1 preferred)
• Strong technical knowledge and ability to manage multiple design disciplines
• Excellent communication and coordination skills

  What s on Offer

  • Salary between £70,000 and £80,000
  • Competitive benefits package
  • Long‑term career progression within a growing contractor
  • Exposure to high‑quality refurbishment and fit‑out projects across London
  • Supportive and collaborative pre‑construction team

  We are keen to speak with Pre‑Construction Design Managers looking for a hands‑on role within a respected contractor delivering quality projects.