Retail Design Manager

redfish solutions ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

redfish solutions ltd in London seeks a Design Manager to lead the design process for luxury retail fit-out projects, ensuring exceptional quality and on-time delivery.

You will coordinate interior designers, architects, and external consultants, manage client expectations, and act as the main link between client, design team and construction crew throughout RIBA stages 3–5.

Qualifications

• Experience as Design Manager or Senior Interior Architect in London luxury retail fit-out.
• Strong knowledge of UK building regulations, planning permissions, and office standards.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design direction for prime London retail spaces, ensuring top-tier quality.
• Coordinate interior designers, architects, and external consultants.
• Manage client expectations and present design concepts to high-profile clients.
• Review design packages (RIBA stages 3–5) for compliance with regulations.
• Track program schedules and budgets to prevent scope creep.
• Balance luxury aesthetics with cost efficiency and sustainability goals.
• Provide on-site support during fit-out with the project team.

Skills

Design leadership

Client management

Team coordination

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Interior Design or Architecture

Professional registration (RIBA or BIID) preferred

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Adobe Creative Suite

SketchUp

Job description

A Design Manager leads the design process for high-end commercial retail fit-out projects in London.

You will manage client expectations, coordinate interior designers and technical teams, and ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget. You act as the main link between the client, the design team, and the construction crew.

Key Responsibilities

• Design Leadership: Lead the creative and technical direction for prime London retail spaces, ensuring top-tier quality and design standards.


• Client Management: Present design concepts to high-profile clients, manage feedback, and build strong working relationships.


• Team Coordination: Direct internal architects and interior designers, plus external consultants like MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) and structural engineers.


• Project Delivery: Review detailed design packages (RIBA stages 3–5) to ensure compliance with UK building regulations and landlord requirements.


• Budget & Schedule: Track design programs and budgets to prevent scope creep and ensure smooth handovers to the construction team.


• Value Engineering: Balance luxury aesthetic goals with cost efficiency and sustainability targets (e.g., SKA Rating, BREEAM, LEED).


• On-Site Support: Resolve technical site queries during the fit-out phase alongside the project manager and construction team.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Experience: Proven experience as a Design Manager or Senior Interior Architect within the London commercial/luxury retail fit-out or Cat A/Cat B sector.


• Knowledge: Deep understanding of UK building regulations, planning permissions, and London commercial office standards.


• Software Skills: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and SketchUp.


• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written English skills with strong presentation abilities.


• Qualifications: Degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field. Professional registration (such as RIBA or BIID) is a strong plus.