Design Manager with architectural background - Office Fit-out
DB3 Group
London, England, United Kingdom
Design Manager with architectural background - Office Fit-out As part of our continued growth, we're actively seeking a Design Manager to join our busy office sector team in London. On the doorstop of Clerkenwell, our London studio provides a vibrant environment for fostering creativity and innovation. About you You should demonstrate ambition and enthusiasm for success, along with a readiness to serve as an ambassador for the business. The role requires a strong technical aptitude and the ability to adapt to challenging situations. Responsibilities Display strong leadership in directing and coordinating design teams (internal and external) Prepare and review project programming and project delivery objectives Develop design responsibility matrix Manage and track master design deliverables schedule of full design team Chair and minute workshops with supply chain partners Manage samples, tech submissions, and mock-up schedules Ensure your projects are fully resourced and project deadlines are met Inspire your team to design aspirational projects that are both innovative and creative in their resolution Nurture existing client relationships and seek out new potential sources of work. Log and maintain all relationship development activities in the company CRM Leading and writing fee proposals / bids. Log and maintain all pipeline and live projects on the company Bid Tracker Assist with and take on some of the studio administration tasks such as resource management and invoicing Act as the primary point of contact for clients, ensuring exceptional communication Present work to clients in an inspiring, engaging, professional and creative manner Act as both manager and mentor to members of the team to promote a collaborative atmosphere Proactively develop high quality spatial, architectural and operational designs both independently and within the studio to meet the vision of the practice and client s brief Ensure projects are delivered within the fee parameters, reporting back data where projects are at risk. Log and maintain all risks on the company Risk Register. Inform the Directors of any significant risks to the business immediately Drive exceptional quality in both graphical, technical and 3D output as well as the final built result Continuously look for and implement opportunities to increase efficiencies and improvements in operational and design terms across the practice Strong understanding of regulatory standards (Building Regulations, health & safety standards, and planning legislation) Keep up to date with registration and charter requirements (ARB / RIBA / CIAT) Uphold and implement requirements for ISO 9001 / 14001 Maintain and ensure business, client and project confidentiality Mentor junior staff and participate in the development of the design team Contribute to the improvement of office standards, workflows, and design processes Develop and maintain professional relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, contractors, and local authorities Requirements Proven experience as a Design Manager of office fit-out projects UK qualified architect or architectural technologist with significant post-qualification experience (7 years+) Experience in working on projects with a construction value between £5M - £100M Confident, organised and proactive Experience working with fit-out contractors, architects, and project managers Strong knowledge of construction techniques, materials, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) coordination Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and contracts Ability to develop and manage design programmes, ensuring alignment with project timelines Familiarity with sustainable design principles and BREEAM/LEED standards Excellent communicator and negotiator with clients, contractors, and suppliers Ability to present design concepts clearly in meetings and reports to the aforementioned Quick decision-making in resolving design conflicts or site issues Ability to adapt to fast-track project timelines and evolving client requirements Highly competent, experienced and passionate about technical detailing and the production of technical information Highly experienced in the delivery of projects on-site including contract administration Highly experienced in the managing of external multidisciplinary consultants Highly experienced in producing exceptional concept design, visualisation and technical design output Excellent in the use of Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, Revit, Autocad and Common Data Environments (e.g. Acconex, Asite etc.) Excellent use of the English language, both written and spoken word Benefits Agile working (with 2 days remote) Vitality health scheme Life assurance 25 days leave + bank holidays + birthday off Enhanced maternity/paternity package Membership body payments Pension scheme (5% employee + 3% employer contributions) Cycle to work scheme Electric car scheme Eye care vouchers Further education and training Workplace wellbeing support Mentoring opportunities How to Apply Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and portfolio showcasing relevant work samples to recruitment@db3group.com . We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how you can contribute to our team's success! #J-18808-Ljbffr