Design Manager

Yo-Chi is looking for an experienced Design Manager to lead our in-house design team and shape the look and feel of every Yo-Chi store. From new venue fit-outs to refurbishments across our growing network, you'll own the design process end-to-end - from initial site inspection and design concept through to construction, while managing a small team of designers and working closely with our Projects & Property Director.

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can spot the finest detail while never losing sight of the bigger brand picture - someone equally comfortable mentoring a team as they are reviewing a construction drawing set.

Key Responsibilities:

Team Leadership

• Manage and mentor a team of four designers, providing clear direction, feedback, and development support
• Review and refine team members' role scope and task ownership to ensure clarity and accountability across the team
• Support less experienced team members in building technical skills, particularly around tender and construction drawing review

Design Direction

• Partner with the Brand Director to align on approved designs and shape the future design direction of the brand
• Define the scope and design direction for store refurbishments
• Oversee initial floor plan development and review
• Conduct thorough reviews of tender and construction drawing sets to ensure design integrity and buildability
• Visit sites to inspect design execution against approved plans and brand standards, particularly for new or complex venues
• Coordinate with international design consultants where required for specific projects

Project Management

• Review design costings in partnership with the cost consultant/quantity surveyor (QS)
• Conduct comparative costing and finishes analysis across the venue portfolio to maintain design consistency and cost control
• Manage relationships with, and output of, external design consultants
• Provide weekly programme updates to the CEO

What We're Looking For

• 5–8+ years' design experience, with proven experience managing and developing a team
• Strong background in retail, hospitality, or multi-site fit-out design
• Confident reviewing and interpreting tender and construction drawing sets
• Solid working knowledge of site conditions and building services - including mechanical, plumbing, structural, and electrical & how these impact design and buildability
• Experience managing design budgets, costings, and external consultants
• Strong eye for finishes, materials, and brand consistency across a multi-site portfolio
• A collaborative approach, comfortable working closely with brand, project, and operations stakeholders

How to Apply:
 
If this sounds like you, we'd love to hear from you.

Please submit your resume and portfolio.