Design Manager – Client Side

Overview

As Design Manager on a landmark mixed-use redevelopment in Central London, you shape design strategy from early concept through construction, focusing on how design creates value for occupiers, operators and investors. You will work with cross-functional teams to translate market insights into briefs and specifications, driving placemaking, end-user experience and commercial performance. This client-side role offers influence over multi-building schemes and exposure to sustainability and placemaking at scale.

Pay / Benefits

• benefits package
• career progression opportunities
• central London project
• salary up to 70,000
• cross-functional exposure

Responsibilities

• Research competitor developments, market trends and design precedents to inform strategy
• Analyze how design decisions influence rental values and occupier demand
• Define building specifications, layouts, amenities and design features
• Collaborate with cost teams to assess options against budgets and value
• Contribute to design briefs, accommodation schedules and amenity strategies
• Champion end-user experience, placemaking, public realm and community spaces
• Benchmark unit sizes, efficiency and amenities against peers
• Review architectural proposals from an end-user perspective
• Coordinate with leasing, marketing, development and operations teams
• Prepare design presentations and recommendations for senior stakeholders
• Support project reporting and board presentations
• Explore AI and data analysis to improve design research and decision-making
• Assist with design meetings, documentation and stakeholder engagement

Key requirements

• 5+ years’ experience in architecture, design or property development
• Architectural or design background, ideally from an architectural practice
• Strong research and analytical skills, including competitor analysis and benchmarking
• Interest in how design drives commercial value and end-user experience
• Ability to translate market information into clear design recommendations
• Excellent presentation, communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Strong numerical ability and understanding of financial modelling
• Interest in AI, automation and digital design tools
• Proactive, adaptable with strong attention to detail

• presentation
• stakeholder engagement
• analytical mindset
• Revit
• CAD
• data analysis

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