Senior Design Manager - Fit Out

Knight Frank’s Project and Development Services division is seeking to appoint an experienced Senior Design Manager (Fit Out) to support the delivery of a high-profile hospitality project in Egypt. This role will play a critical part in leading and coordinating the fit-out design process, ensuring that all design outputs are aligned with brand standards, operational requirements and project objectives. Working closely with clients, consultants and contractors, the successful candidate will drive design excellence, manage complex stakeholder interfaces and ensure seamless integration between design intent and on-site execution. This is an opportunity to join a growing P&DS platform, contributing to the delivery of best-in-class hospitality environments within a dynamic and evolving market.Responsibilities: Lead and manage the end-to-end design process for fit-out projects, from concept development through to detailed design, coordination and final delivery.Ensure all design outputs are aligned with client requirements, project objectives, budget constraints and programme milestones.Review and manage design documentation, including layouts, technical drawings, specifications and material selections.Oversee the coordination and integration of architectural, MEP and specialist design disciplines.Ensure design solutions are practical, buildable and aligned with fit-out execution strategies.Act as the primary point of contact for clients on all design-related matters, ensuring clear communication and alignment throughout the project lifecycle.Work closely with clients, consultants, contractors and suppliers to optimise design solutions and resolve technical challenges.Manage client expectations and ensure timely approvals across all design stages.Present design concepts, progress updates and technical solutions to clients and stakeholders.Coordinate design development across multiple stakeholders, ensuring consistency, accuracy and compliance.Ensure all design deliverables meet local authority requirements, codes and international standards.Review technical submissions, shop drawings and material approvals.Identify and mitigate design risks, ensuring proactive resolution of issues impacting programme, cost or quality.Support value engineering initiatives to optimise cost efficiency without compromising design intent.Support the preparation of design proposals, technical submissions and bid documentation.Review tender documentation, specifications and BOQs from a design perspective.Provide input into procurement strategies and contractor selection processes.Assist in the evaluation of design-related aspects during tendering and contractor negotiations.Manage design coordination during the construction phase, ensuring alignment between design intent and site execution.Review and approve contractor design submissions, RFIs and technical queries.Conduct site visits to ensure implementation aligns with approved design and quality standards.Support project teams in resolving design-related issues during construction.Oversee the preparation and review of as-built drawings and final documentation.Monitor design progress against project timelines and ensure deliverables are issued in accordance with agreed schedules.Ensure design solutions remain aligned with project budgets and commercial objectives.Track design changes, variations and their impact on cost and programme.Maintain high standards of quality assurance across all design deliverables.Work collaboratively with internal project management teams, commercial teams and external consultants.Support junior design team members and contribute to capability development within the team.Promote a culture of design excellence, collaboration and accountability.Maintain accurate records of all design documentation and approvals.Ensure all drawings and documents are uploaded and managed within project document control systems.Provide regular design progress reports to project leadership and clients.Track design deliverables, approvals and outstanding actions.Stay informed on industry trends, materials, technologies and best practices within fit-out design.Contribute to the development and improvement of internal design standards, processes and tools.Promote innovation and efficiency in design delivery and coordination.Qualifications/Education Required:Degree Qualification in Architecture / Design, Construction Management, Engineering, Planning, Project management or equivalent. Professional Memberships are an advantage but not essential (RIBA, RICS, CIOB, C.Eng).10 years’ experience in similar industry, at least 5 years in the Middle East.Major project experience is essential.Must have PMC/PMO experience within a reputable PMC International firm.Excellent written and verbal skills with a fluent proficiency in English. Arabic proficiency would be a plus.