Job Description:

Location: Hove, East Sussex
Rate: £250–£300 per day
Duration: Approx. 8 weeks
Start Date: Monday 14 September 2026
Contract: Freelance

A leading fit out and refurbishment contractor is currently looking for an experienced No.1 Site Manager to take full responsibility for an 8-week CAT B gym fit-out and refurbishment project in Hove.

This is an autonomous, hands-on Site Manager position where you will be responsible for the day-to-day running of the site, coordinating subcontractors and trades, managing programme and logistics, and ensuring the project is delivered safely, efficiently and to a high standard.

The successful candidate will work closely with an off-site Contracts Manager but must be capable of running the project independently on a day-to-day basis, taking ownership of site operations and resolving issues as they arise.

The project is a full CAT B fit-out and refurbishment of an existing commercial space and will involve:

• Full internal fit-out and refurbishment works

• Ceilings and suspended ceilings

• Flooring and floor finishes

• Decorative finishes and painting

• Partitioning and dry lining

• Tiling and associated finishing works

• Mechanical and HVAC works

• Electrical installation and associated works

• Plumbing and sanitary installations

• Amendments to existing sprinkler systems

• Small builders' works, including blockwork

• Coordination of multiple specialist subcontractors and trades

• Maintaining high standards of site cleanliness, organisation and presentation

As the No.1 Site Manager, you will be responsible for:

• Taking full responsibility for the day-to-day management of the site

• Running the project autonomously alongside an off-site Contracts Manager

• Coordinating and managing subcontractors, trades and specialist contractors

• Planning and sequencing works to maintain the programme

• Managing site health & safety and ensuring full compliance

• Monitoring quality, workmanship and progress

• Liaising with the Contracts Manager and wider project team

• Managing deliveries, materials, access and site logistics

• Coordinating mechanical, electrical, plumbing, sprinkler and builders' works

• Ensuring works are completed to the required specification and programme

• Identifying and resolving issues on site as they arise

• Maintaining a clean, safe and professionally presented site

• Attending the pre-start meeting and assisting with project planning and mobilisation

• Providing clear communication and regular updates to the wider project team

The ideal candidate will have:

• Proven experience as a No.1 Site Manager within fit out, refurbishment or construction

• Experience independently running projects from mobilisation through to completion

• Strong experience coordinating multiple trades and subcontractors

• Previous CAT A / CAT B fit-out or refurbishment experience

• A good understanding of mechanical, electrical, plumbing and sprinkler works

• Experience coordinating finishing trades including ceilings, flooring, partitions, tiling and decoration

• A strong understanding of programme, sequencing and site logistics

• Excellent communication and organisational skills

• The ability to take ownership and make decisions autonomously

• A strong understanding of health & safety and site management procedures

• Relevant site management qualifications, including SMSTS and First Aid

• Valid CSCS certification

A trade background, particularly in carpentry or joinery, would be advantageous.

Previous leisure or gym refurbishment experience would be beneficial but is not essential. The key requirement is an experienced No.1 Site Manager who can confidently take ownership of a fast-paced CAT B fit-out and coordinate all elements of the works.

Typically 07:30 – 17:00, Monday to Friday, although some flexibility may be required depending on the programme and specific works being undertaken.

Some specialist works may be scheduled outside standard hours where required, although this is not anticipated as standard.

• £250–£300 per day, depending on experience

• Approx. 8-week freelance contract

• Monday 14 September 2026 start

• Opportunity to attend the pre-start meeting on Thursday 10 September at 10:30am

• A varied and hands-on CAT B refurbishment project

• Autonomous No.1 Site Manager responsibility

• Potential for further work with an established fit out contractor

If you are an experienced No.1 Site Manager with a strong fit out/refurbishment background and are available for a 14 September start, apply now with an up-to-date CV or call the London office and ask for Breeze Mitchell.

We act as an Employment Agency/Business with regards to this vacancy. As an Equal Opportunities employer we welcome applications regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnic origin, sexual orientation, religion, marital status, disability or age. All applicants are considered on the basis of their merits and abilities for the job.