Our client is seeking an experienced and commercially astute Project Manager to lead the delivery of high-value construction and refit projects across the UK with some exposure to the market in Dubai. The role sits at the heart of their business, overseeing property development, bespoke partitioning systems, and tailor-made interior solutions from concept through to completion.

The successful candidate will bring a strong on-site presence, exceptional stakeholder management skills, and a proven track record of delivering complex, design-led projects within live environments.

Job Title: Senior Project Manager – Construction & Refit (UK & Dubai)

Location: UK

Salary: £50-55 per hour

Contract: Temporary/Contract

Key Responsibilities

Project Delivery

  • Lead end-to-end delivery of construction, refurbishment, and interior fit-out projects
  • Manage multiple projects simultaneously across UK with strong ties in UAE.
  • Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget and to the highest quality standards
  • Oversee bespoke partitioning and custom-built solutions, coordinating closely with design, manufacturing and installation teams

Client & Stakeholder Management

  • Act as the primary point of contact for clients, consultants, landlords, and contractors.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with high-profile clients and developers
  • Confidently represent the business in client meetings, site reviews, and progress presentations.
  • Manage expectations while maintaining a solutions-focused approach.

Commercial & Contract Management

  • Manage project budgets, cash flow and cost reporting.
  • Oversee procurement strategies and subcontractor appointments.
  • Administer contracts, variations, valuations, and final accounts.
  • Identify and mitigate commercial and delivery risks.

Site & Team Leadership

  • Provide visible leadership on site, driving performance, safety and quality.
  • Coordinate internal teams, subcontractors, and specialist suppliers.
  • Ensure compliance with UK and UAE health & safety regulations and local authority requirements.
  • Mentor junior project managers and site teams where required.

Design & Technical Coordination

  • Work closely with designers, architects and engineers to deliver bespoke solutions.
  • Review drawings, specifications, and technical details to ensure buildability.
  • Drive value engineering without compromising design intent or quality.

Skills & Experience

Essential

  • Minimum 8–10 years’ experience in construction, refurbishment, or interior fit-out project management.
  • Strong experience delivering bespoke and design-led projects
  • Proven track record in UK construction
  • Excellent knowledge of partitioning systems, joinery, and tailor-made interior solutions
  • Strong commercial awareness and contractual knowledge
  • Confident, authoritative presence with excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work across different cultures and regulatory environments

Desirable

  • Ideally a qualification in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field
  • Professional accreditation (MRICS, MCIOB, PMP or equivalent)
  • Experience working with high-end residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments
  • Arabic language skills (advantageous but not essential)



Personal Attributes

  • Highly organised, proactive, and detail-driven
  • Calm with a solutions-focused mindset
  • Strong leadership presence on site and with clients
  • Flexible and willing to travel internationally
  • Passionate about quality, craftsmanship, and bespoke delivery

Lily Shippen is a leading recruitment agency, specialising in executive support and business support recruitment. We connect top talent with exceptional opportunities across the UK and internationally. Our expertise spans Executive Assistant, Personal Assistant, Office Manager, Chief of Staff, and HR recruitment, offering tailored solutions for businesses across various industries.

 

We recruit for permanent, temporary, and fixed-term contract roles across London, Manchester, Birmingham, Leeds, Cheshire, and beyond. Whether you’re seeking a new opportunity or looking to hire top talent, we’re here to help. If you’re an experienced Project Manager looking for a new challenge in a global role, we would love to hear from you.

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