Design Director

Austin Recruitment LTD
About the Business:

This award-winning design and build business has become one of the UK s leaders in workplace design, fit-out, refurbishment, relocation, and furniture solutions. Known for transforming workspaces for some of the most recognisable organisations in the country, they pride themselves on overpromising and overdelivering creating inspiring, future-proofed workplaces that enhance how people work.
With a culture built on hiring, mentoring, and retaining the best talent, this business is a place where creativity, collaboration, and technical excellence thrive.

What s in it for you:

• Generous holiday allowance plus additional time off at Christmas
• On-site coffee shop with free breakfast, tea, coffee, and fresh fruit daily
• Salary sacrifice pension scheme with the company contributing back
• Life assurance after 12 months service
• Employee Assistance Programme including 24/7 online GP service, plus mental, financial, and physical wellbeing support
• Free pensions and mortgage advice
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• A supportive culture built on collaboration, innovation, and growth

Role Overview:
As a Design Director you will take ownership of the entire design process – ensuring every project meets exceptional standards, aligns with the client journey, and exceeds expectations.
You ll lead projects from initial concept and pitch through to delivery, managing teams, developing creative solutions, and driving design standards across schemes valued up to £20m. This role is perfect for a commercially minded design leader with the creativity and drive to push boundaries, while balancing innovation with technical rigour.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess project design requirements and ensure they align with best-in-class fit-out standards
• Lead concept design, space planning, and client presentation schemes
• Actively participate in client meetings, pitches, and presentations
• Collaborate with build and project delivery teams to ensure seamless execution
• Manage team workload, mentoring and developing designers
• Continuously improve processes and systems to enhance project outcomes
• Demonstrate strong understanding of the full client journey and internal workflows

What You Bring:

• A degree in Interior Design or Architecture (or equivalent)
• Minimum 5 years experience in the corporate office interiors sector
• Proven track record managing design & build projects
• Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD, Revit, and strong hand sketching
• In-depth knowledge of relevant codes, standards, and compliance requirements
• The ability to balance creativity with commercial awareness
• Strong leadership, client-facing, and presentation skills

Diversity & Inclusion
This business is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. Candidates will be considered on ability, not age, gender, or ethnicity. Please note that fluency in English and the right to work in the UK are essential.