Design Manager

OverviewDesign Manager (Furniture / Joinery)

Location: Crawley

Salary: £50,000 - £55,000

Our client is one of the UKs leading contract furniture manufacturers, with over 25 years experience delivering bespoke solutions to the luxury residential and hospitality sectors. They specialise in high-quality bedroom furniture, bathroom vanities, walk-in wardrobes, and room dividers, working in partnership with architects, interior designers, and developers. Their Italian-inspired designs and UK-based manufacturing ensure exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a full-service approach from concept to installation.

The RoleThey are seeking a talented and experienced

Design Manager

to lead the design function and ensure seamless delivery of innovative, practical, and commercially viable solutions. You will manage the full design process from concept through to technical production while overseeing a small team and collaborating closely with project managers, manufacturing, and installation teams.

This is a pivotal role for a creative yet commercially minded leader who thrives in a fast-paced, detail-driven environment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage the design team, setting standards for creativity, technical accuracy, and delivery.

Translate architect and interior designer briefs into bespoke furniture designs that balance aesthetics, functionality, and cost efficiency.

Oversee the production of technical drawings, 3D visuals, and specifications for manufacturing and installation.

Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are feasible, efficient, and aligned with production capabilities.

Manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring deadlines and budgets are met.

Act as a key point of contact for design-related queries from clients, project managers, and site teams.

Introduce and implement design process improvements, keeping workflows efficient and consistent.

Stay current with design trends, materials, and manufacturing techniques to maintain a reputation for cutting-edge solutions.

About You

Proven experience in a Design Manager or Senior Designer role, ideally within furniture, interiors, joinery, or luxury residential projects.

Strong leadership skills, with experience managing and developing design teams.

Proficiency in CAD and 3D design software (e.g., Cabinet Vision, AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar).

Excellent technical knowledge of materials, joinery, and furniture construction methods.

Strong commercial awareness and ability to balance creativity with budget and production requirements.

Excellent communication skills, with the ability to liaise confidently with clients, architects, and contractors.

Highly organised, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple deadlines.

Why Join?

Be part of one of the UKs leading bespoke contract furniture manufacturers with a prestigious client base.

Opportunity to shape and grow the design function within a forward-thinking business.

Work on high-profile projects that combine creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship.

Competitive salary and benefits ..... full job details .....