​Design Manager - Cambridge - £80K

​Design Manager – Fit Out Contractor

Location: Cambridge
Salary: £60,000 – £80,000 + Package
Sector: Commercial Fit Out & Refurbishment
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time

We’re working with a leading traditional fit out contractor who is expanding their operations in the Cambridge region and looking for an experienced Design Manager to join the team. Known for their high-quality commercial interiors, this contractor works on a wide range of projects, including Cat A & B fit outs, typically valued between £1M – £30M.

About the Role:

As the Design Manager, you’ll be the central link between consultants, subcontractors, and project delivery teams. Your focus will be on managing the design process from pre-construction through to handover, ensuring drawings are fully coordinated, buildable, and compliant. This is a key role for someone with strong technical knowledge and excellent stakeholder management skills, ideally with experience in both commercial and specialist fit out environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage the coordination and integration of all design information across live and pre-construction projects

• Work closely with consultants, architects, and subcontractors to ensure timely and accurate design delivery

• Attend design team meetings and workshops to drive collaboration and resolve technical queries

• Ensure all design information aligns with contract requirements, construction programme, and budget

• Review and manage technical submittals, RFIs, and drawing approvals

• Coordinate specialist subcontractor designs and ensure compliance

• Oversee planning and statutory submissions (e.g. Building Control, landlord approvals, etc.)

• Provide ongoing design support to site and commercial teams during delivery

 Key Requirements:

• 4+ years of experience in a Design Manager role within the traditional fit out or interiors sector

• A strong understanding of Cat A, Cat B, and specialist fit out works (e.g. labs, educational buildings)

• Able to manage and challenge consultant and subcontractor information effectively

• Proficient in reviewing technical drawings, specifications, and coordination documents

• Experience working with document control and project management platforms (e.g. Viewpoint, Aconex, Procore)

• Strong communication and problem-solving skills

• A background inconstruction, architecture, or engineering is preferred

What’s on Offer:

• Salary range: £60,000 – £80,000 (dependent on experience)

• Full benefits package including travel allowance, pension, healthcare, and bonus

• Long-term pipeline of high-quality fit out projects across the Cambridge and East Anglia region

• Supportive and growing team environment with real opportunities for progression