Head of Design & Refurbishment

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design & Refurbishment

Company: Dexters

Location: London, EC2A 3EP, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Property Operations & Management / Design & Refurbishment Leadership

Date Posted: May 22, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (AI-estimated 5-10 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and motivate a team of Project Managers and Consultants focused on property improvement and maximizing client income through strategic design and refurbishment.

• Oversee the end-to-end planning and execution of larger-scale refurbishment projects, ensuring high standards of delivery and project lifecycle management.

• Drive team performance to meet monthly commission targets by promoting specialized property enhancement services across multiple office locations.

• Ensure comprehensive compliance with all relevant building regulations, including License to Alter, High Rise Buildings, HMOs, Structural, and Fire Safety regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges leadership, project management, and specialized property development within the real estate sector. While not a traditional "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" role, it heavily involves operational oversight, team performance management, process adherence, and driving revenue through service offerings, aligning with operational leadership principles. The "commission targets" and "promoting services" aspects indicate a strong commercial drive inherent in its operational execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Client Advisory & Valuation: Progress leads from internal colleagues to provide expert advice to landlords and sellers on maximizing property income through refurbishment. Collaborate with colleagues to offer current valuations based on various scope of work options.

• Project Planning & Design Guidance: Guide larger refurbishment projects through the planning stages, offering specialist advice on design and layout to optimize property potential and market appeal.

• Compliance Oversight: Ensure all team members strictly adhere to compliance requirements for projects, including License to Alter, High Rise Building regulations, HMO standards, Structural integrity, and Fire Regulations.

• Team Motivation & Target Achievement: Motivate and manage a team of consultants to consistently achieve monthly commission targets, fostering a high-performance environment.

• Best Practice Implementation: Ensure all team members consistently follow and implement standard best practices in project management, client communication, and property enhancement.

• Service Promotion & Lead Generation: Actively promote the team's design and refurbishment services across all local Lettings and Sales offices to maximize the flow of regular leads.

• Contractor Network Development: Identify, vet, and onboard new contractors to support the growing demand and expansion of services in the local area.

• Quality Assurance & Sign-off: Implement stringent sign-off methods and provide robust support to the team, ensuring every project is completed to an exceptionally high standard.

• Departmental Strategy & Management: Contribute to the upper management of the department, actively shaping its future direction, and undertaking ad hoc management tasks requiring specialized expertise.

• Senior Leadership Support: Provide necessary cover for the Board Director and other Heads of Department during their annual leave, demonstrating flexibility and leadership capability.

• Internal Training & Education: Conduct regular information sessions at Board Meetings and office visits for local offices and Property Management Hubs, educating colleagues on the benefits and scope of the team's services.

• Issue Resolution: Swiftly address and resolve any miscommunications within the team to prevent client complaints and effectively manage any complaints that arise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a dual focus on operational leadership (team management, compliance, best practices) and strategic business development (promoting services, generating leads, client advisory). This requires a candidate who can balance process-driven execution with proactive revenue generation and client-facing advisory.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While specific educational requirements are not detailed, a background in property development, architecture, interior design, construction management, or a related field would be highly advantageous. A degree or professional qualification in these areas is often preferred for leadership roles in this sector.

Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in property development, refurbishment project management, or a related leadership role within the real estate or construction industry. Proven experience in managing teams and driving performance against targets is essential.

Required Skills:

• Target-Driven Leadership: Proven ability to lead a team and consistently achieve and exceed performance targets, particularly commission-based goals.

• Refurbishment Project Management: Demonstrated experience in designing and successfully overseeing large-scale refurbishment projects from conception through to completion.

• Process Adherence & Promotion: Strong understanding and commitment to following established structures and best practices, with the ability to effectively promote these within a team.

• Client Advisory & Communication: Exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to confidently deliver information sessions and engage with colleagues, clients, and contractors. A "can-do" attitude is paramount.

• Financial Acumen: Confidence with figures, including the ability to analyze numbers, provide valuations, and understand financial performance metrics related to projects and team commissions.

• Time Management & Organization: Exceptional time management skills to effectively manage multiple projects, team members, and competing priorities.

• Problem-Solving & Conflict Resolution: Ability to quickly identify and resolve miscommunications and handle client complaints professionally and efficiently.

Preferred Skills:

• Estate Agency Experience: Familiarity with or direct experience in the estate agency sector is considered advantageous, providing insight into client needs and market dynamics.

• Design & Layout Expertise: In-depth knowledge of design principles, layout optimization, and current interior design trends to advise clients effectively.

• Compliance Knowledge: Detailed understanding of various property compliance regulations (HMO, Fire Safety, Structural, License to Alter) and their practical application.

• Contractor Management: Experience in vetting, onboarding, and managing relationships with a network of contractors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Requirements" section strongly suggests a need for practical, hands-on experience in property refurbishment and a leadership style focused on results and process. The emphasis on "smartly presented" and "professional approach" indicates a client-facing role where presentation and integrity are key.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase detailed examples of larger-scale refurbishment projects managed, highlighting the scope, challenges, design solutions implemented, and final outcomes.

• Design & Planning Examples: Evidence of design and layout planning for properties, demonstrating how changes maximized potential or value. Visuals (renderings, floor plans) are highly recommended.

• Team Performance Metrics: If possible, provide examples of how you have driven team performance, met commission targets, or improved efficiency in previous roles.

• Compliance Documentation Examples: Illustrate understanding of compliance by referencing how complex regulatory requirements were managed in past projects.

• Contractor Vetting Process: Outline your methodology for vetting and selecting contractors, emphasizing quality, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in establishing and refining workflows for project management, client communication, and team operations to ensure efficiency and consistency.

• Implementation & Automation: Showcase how processes were implemented or improved to streamline operations, manage project lifecycles, and ensure quality control.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Provide examples of how you have tracked project progress, team performance, and client satisfaction, using data to inform decisions and drive improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio should emphasize tangible results and process. Candidates should be prepared to walk through specific projects, demonstrating their problem-solving skills, design sensibility, and ability to manage complex operational and regulatory environments. Focus on showcasing leadership in driving efficiency and achieving commercial goals.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for similar leadership roles in London (e.g., Head of Property Services, Senior Project Manager in Real Estate) with significant team and revenue responsibility, a competitive salary range is estimated between £60,000 - £85,000 per annum. This estimation considers the location (London), experience level (5-10 years), and the leadership/revenue-driving nature of the role.

Benefits:

• Performance-Based Commission: A significant component of the compensation will likely be tied to team commission targets, reflecting the revenue-generating aspect of the role.

• Health & Wellbeing: Standard benefits such as private medical insurance, potentially including dental and optical coverage.

• Pension Scheme: Company-contributed pension plan to support long-term financial security.

• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave allowance, plus bank holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, training, and potentially support for relevant certifications.

• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.

• Company Car/Allowance: Potentially offered given the role's requirement for travel to various offices and sites.

Working Hours: The role is designated as FULL_TIME, with an estimated 40 hours per week. However, given the leadership responsibilities and the nature of project management in property, flexibility will likely be required, with potential for occasional longer hours to meet project deadlines or address urgent client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar roles in London's property sector, factoring in the seniority and specific responsibilities. The emphasis on commission targets suggests a variable compensation structure that could significantly increase total earnings.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Dexters operates within the Real Estate Services industry, specializing in residential property. They are known for their comprehensive services, including sales, lettings, property management, and now, design and refurbishment. This positions them as a full-service provider in the property lifecycle.

Company Size: Dexters is a significant player in the London property market, with a large number of offices and employees. This implies a structured, professional environment with established processes, but also opportunities for impact within a substantial organization.

Founded: Founded in 1993, Dexters has a history of growth and expansion, building a strong reputation in London. This longevity suggests stability and a well-understood operational framework.

Team Structure:

• Departmental Leadership: The Head of Design & Refurbishment will be part of the upper management of the department, reporting to a Board Director.

• Team Management: Direct management of a team of Project Managers and Consultants.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Close collaboration with Lettings and Sales offices across local areas, and potentially with Property Management Hubs, to generate leads and service clients.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Approach: Focus on advising clients (Landlords, Sellers) to maximize their property’s potential income.

• Process-Driven Operations: Emphasis on following standard best practices, compliance, and structured project management.

• Performance & Revenue Focus: Clear drive to meet monthly commission targets and promote services for business growth.

Company Website: https://careers.dexters.co.uk

📝 Enhancement Note: Dexters' established presence and comprehensive service offering suggest a professional, results-oriented culture. The role of Head of Design & Refurbishment is integral to expanding their service portfolio and directly contributing to revenue generation through property enhancement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Management / Leadership role within a specialized operational function (property refurbishment and design). It requires strategic oversight, team leadership, and direct contribution to business growth and client satisfaction. The scope includes managing a team, influencing departmental strategy, and supporting senior leadership.

Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to a Board Director and is part of the senior leadership team for the department. This indicates significant visibility and direct impact on departmental strategy and performance.

Operations Impact: The Head of Design & Refurbishment directly impacts revenue through the services offered by their team. By advising clients and successfully managing refurbishment projects, they increase property value, rental income, and sales potential, thereby driving business for Dexters and its clients. Efficient operations and high-quality project delivery are crucial for client retention and reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into more senior directorial roles within Dexters, overseeing broader operational areas or expanding the scope of the Design & Refurbishment department.

• Strategic Development: Opportunity to shape the future strategy of the department, introducing new services, technologies, or market approaches.

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in property development, compliance, and team management, becoming a recognized authority within the company and the industry.

• Cross-Departmental Influence: Gain broader exposure to other areas of Dexters' operations (Sales, Lettings, Property Management), potentially leading to diversified career paths.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a well-established real estate firm. The combination of leadership, strategic input, and direct revenue contribution makes it a pivotal position with significant growth potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based On-site in London, EC2A 3EP. This location suggests a professional office environment within a central business district.

Office Location(s): While the primary office is at 44 Great Eastern St, London, EC2A 3EP, the role requires regular travel to various Dexters Lettings and Sales offices across London, as well as client properties.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The London office likely serves as a hub for the Design & Refurbishment team, fostering collaboration and team-based problem-solving.

• Tools & Technology: Access to standard office technology, project management software, and potentially design software (though specific tools are not listed).

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with the Project Managers and Consultants, as well as with colleagues from sales and lettings teams, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours/week), with an expectation of flexibility to manage project timelines and client demands. This may involve occasional work outside standard hours to ensure project success and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and travel are typical for leadership roles in property services, emphasizing the need for a hands-on approach and direct engagement with teams and clients.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process: The interview process is likely to involve multiple stages to assess leadership capabilities, technical expertise, and cultural fit.

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of CV and application, followed by a phone or video screening to assess basic qualifications and motivation.

• First Interview: A more in-depth discussion with a senior manager or HR representative focusing on experience, leadership style, and understanding of the role's core responsibilities.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare a presentation on a past refurbishment project, a proposed strategy for a specific challenge, or to demonstrate their design and project management approach. This is where portfolio review becomes critical.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential direct reports (Project Managers/Consultants) and/or other Heads of Department to assess interpersonal skills and collaborative potential.

• Final Interview: A discussion with the Board Director to finalize the decision, focusing on strategic alignment and long-term vision for the department.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: Focus on quantifiable results. For each project, clearly state the initial state, the improvements made, and the resulting increase in property value, rental income, or saleability.

• Showcase Design Thinking: Present floor plans, mood boards, or renderings that illustrate your design rationale and how it addresses client needs and market trends.

• Demonstrate Process Control: Explain your project management methodology, how you ensured compliance, managed budgets, and mitigated risks.

• Team Leadership Evidence: Include examples of how you motivated teams, set objectives, and fostered a positive, productive work environment.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss how you handled complex challenges, client disputes, or unexpected project issues.

Challenge Preparation:

• Strategic Pitch: Be ready to articulate your vision for the Design & Refurbishment department, including how you would drive growth, improve efficiency, and enhance service offerings.

• Compliance Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would address specific compliance issues (e.g., an HMO application for a unique property, a significant structural alteration).

• Team Management Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing underperforming team members, motivating a team to hit targets, or resolving internal conflicts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio and potential case studies indicates that Dexters values practical demonstration of skills and results over theoretical knowledge alone. Candidates should prepare to showcase their ability to deliver tangible value through design and project execution.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in project management platforms (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or industry-specific tools) for task tracking, scheduling, and resource allocation.

• CRM System: Familiarity with CRM systems for managing client leads, communications, and project pipelines (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a bespoke estate agency CRM).

• Design Software: While not explicitly stated, familiarity with design and visualization tools (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite for presentations) would be highly beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for financial analysis, valuations, budget tracking, and performance reporting.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in creating and interpreting reports, potentially using BI tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for visualizing team performance and project metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• Communication Platforms: Proficient use of email, instant messaging (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams), and video conferencing tools for team and client communication.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with cloud-based document storage and collaboration tools (e.g., Google Drive, SharePoint) for managing project documentation and compliance records.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, the role demands strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills, which are typically supported by a robust technology stack. Candidates should highlight their adaptability and experience with common professional software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high standards of conduct, honesty, and professionalism in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and contractors.

• Results-Oriented: A strong drive to achieve and exceed targets, particularly commission goals, and to deliver successful project outcomes.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, providing expert advice to maximize property potential and client satisfaction.

• Efficiency & Best Practice: Commitment to following established processes, promoting best practices, and continuously seeking ways to improve operational efficiency.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Fostering a supportive team environment where members work together, share knowledge, and contribute to collective success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with sales and lettings teams to foster lead generation and ensure a seamless client journey.

• Open Communication: Encouraging an environment where team members feel comfortable raising issues, sharing ideas, and providing feedback.

• Mentorship & Support: Providing guidance and support to team members to help them develop their skills and achieve their professional goals.

• Data-Informed Decisions: Utilizing data and analysis to inform strategic decisions, project planning, and performance management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Winning Ways" mentioned in the skills section likely refer to Dexters' core company values. Candidates should research these to align their application and interview responses with the company's ethos.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Multiple Projects: Effectively managing a portfolio of diverse refurbishment projects simultaneously, each with unique requirements, timelines, and potential risks.

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Staying abreast of and ensuring compliance with ever-evolving property regulations (HMO, Fire Safety, Building Control, etc.) across different project types and London boroughs.

• Managing Contractor Performance: Ensuring that a network of external contractors consistently delivers high-quality work on time and within budget, addressing performance issues proactively.

• Driving Team Performance: Motivating a team of consultants to consistently meet ambitious commission targets and maintain high service standards, especially during market fluctuations.

• Market Dynamics: Adapting to changing market conditions, client expectations, and property trends to ensure services remain competitive and valuable.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Compliance Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of property law and building regulations.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to internal or external training focused on strategic leadership, team management, and business development.

• Industry Networking: Participation in industry events, conferences, and professional bodies related to property development, construction, and real estate management.

• New Service Development: Contribution to the strategic planning and launch of new service offerings within the department.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges but also offers substantial opportunities for professional growth, particularly for individuals looking to make a strategic impact in the property services sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Vision for the Department: "What is your vision for the Design & Refurbishment department over the next 3-5 years, and what key initiatives would you implement to achieve it?" (Preparation: Research Dexters' market position, identify growth opportunities in property enhancement, and outline strategic priorities like service expansion, technology adoption, or process optimization).

• Team Motivation & Performance: "How would you motivate a team of consultants to consistently exceed their commission targets, particularly during challenging market periods?" (Preparation: Discuss performance management strategies, incentive structures, coaching techniques, and fostering a positive, results-driven culture).

• Problem-Solving & Compliance: "Describe a situation where you had to navigate a complex compliance issue on a refurbishment project. How did you ensure adherence to regulations while keeping the project on track and within budget?" (Preparation: Select a strong case study from your experience, detailing the specific regulation, your approach, the steps taken, and the successful outcome).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Understanding Dexters: "What attracts you to Dexters, and how do you see your skills and experience contributing to our company's success?" (Preparation: Research Dexters' values, recent news, market presence, and articulate how your leadership and expertise align with their goals).

• Leadership Style: "How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment?" (Preparation: Be ready to discuss your approach to delegation, feedback, team building, and conflict resolution, linking it to Dexters' "Winning Ways" if possible).

• Measuring Success: "How do you measure the success of a refurbishment project and the performance of your team beyond just financial targets?" (Preparation: Discuss key performance indicators (KPIs) related to client satisfaction, project quality, efficiency, compliance, and team development).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the objective, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented (design, process, management), and the measurable results (e.g., increased value, faster turnaround, client testimonials).

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images, floor plans, and before-and-after comparisons to make your projects visually engaging and easy to understand.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased property valuation by X%", "Reduced project timeline by Y%", "Secured Z% more leads through improved service promotion").

• Demonstrate Process & Control: Explain your methodologies for project planning, risk management, contractor selection, and ensuring compliance.

• Be Prepared for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, budget management, negotiation skills, and how you handled specific project hurdles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not only technical ability but also leadership potential and strategic thinking. A well-prepared candidate will demonstrate a clear understanding of the business, a results-driven mindset, and a proven ability to lead and manage complex operations.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Head of Design & Refurbishment position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dexters careers portal.

• Tailor Your CV: Emphasize your experience in leading teams, managing large-scale refurbishment projects, driving performance against targets, and your understanding of property compliance. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most impactful refurbishment projects. Focus on showcasing your design acumen, project management skills, leadership capabilities, and quantifiable results. Ensure it is well-organized and visually appealing.

• Research Dexters: Familiarize yourself with Dexters' services, market presence, and company values ("Winning Ways"). Prepare to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture and how you can contribute to their growth.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for common interview questions related to leadership, project management, client relations, and strategic thinking. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail and present your vision for the department.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.