Fit out
and refurbishment

Our fitout and refurbishment business works on a range of innovative project across all sectors

We work for a huge range of customers, from banks and retailers to commercial offices and public sector bodies.

We’re well known for our high-value, multi-million-pound construction projects, but we also provide fit out services to customers across the UK.

We improve our customers’ buildings, boosting their value and making them better spaces to be in. As with everything we do, our work is always of the highest standard.

241

projects managed in 2023

233

employees

3 years

of zero harm across our projects

50/50

split between public and private sectors

OUR SECTORS

Who we help

Working with the MoJ to transform the courts and tribunals facilities

A TRUSTED PARTNER

One of the highstreet’s favourite fit out and refurbishment companies

We’re trusted by some of the UK’s best-known companies and institutions. Our key customers include M&S, GSK, His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, the Ministry of Justice and the UK’s top four high street banks. This includes Lloyds Banking Group, with whom we’ve been working for 15 years.

If you’ve visited your high street recently, chances are you’ve seen the results of our work. We’re rightly proud to say that almost all our customers are in it for the long haul. In fact, over 90% of our business is in the form of a framework or long-term agreement.

High quality, sustainable office fit out and refurbishment

HELPING OUR CUSTOMERS GO GREEN

Providing sustainable solutions

We work incredibly hard to keep our customers happy. That means providing an outstanding customer experience as we help them manage, upgrade, and refurbish their property portfolios. With a laser focus, we find the right solution. At the same time, we offer sustainable alternatives wherever possible.

That’s where our unique Wates Innovation Network of sustainable technology can add even more value to our customers.

GPA Darlington

We fit out public and private customers

We’re a growing business, with sound finances and big brand name customers who stay with us year on year. We have a 50/50 split of private and public sector customers.

We’re also supporting the Government’s ‘levelling up’ ambitions, by fitting out key regional hubs across the UK.

OUR PROJECTS

Explore our fit-out and refurbishment projects

Harbourside, Bristol

Harbourside, Bristol

When we were appointed to deliver Lloyds Banking Group’s Harbourside project, we understood the value this new hub would bring to the Group’s colleagues and its customers..

Commercial
Imperial College London

Imperial College London

We recently transformed the Sir Michael Uren building at Imperial College London (ICL) over an 11-week programme.

Education
Marks & Spencer Battersea

Marks & Spencer, Battersea

The project to fit out M&S' newest store in the iconic Battersea Power Station development presented an entirely fresh set of challenges.

Retail and the high street
3

CAREERS IN FIT OUT AND REFURBISHMENT

Want to be part of our team?

Assistant Design Manager

Location: Warrington

Job Type: Design

Application Deadline: 07-02-2025

Are you ready to make an impact in the world of high-profile, technically complex projects?Wates are searching for a passionate, innovative Assistant Design Manager to join our Refurb and Fit Out Team, driving forward exciting projects across diverse sectors.This will be a Fixed Term Contract with potential to go permanentWhy Choose Wates? If you’re a design enthusiast with technical expertise and a knack for collaboration, this is your chance to join a team that values fresh perspectives, encourages challenging the norm, and fosters a supportive environment for career growth. At Wates, we’re not just building structures; we’re creating the future, together.As an Assistant Design Manager, you'll play a key role in our mission to achieve excellence in design and buildability. Working closely with Design Managers and our talented in-house experts, you'll ensure each design meets its brief with a focus on compliance, programme efficiency, and quality.Your Responsibilities Will Include: Assisting with design programme development and managing Information Required Schedules Advising the project team on design-related challenges Coordinating project feedback and resolving construction-related design queriesWhat We Can Offer You: Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car (subject to Role/Grade) Travel covered to any of our sites (subject to HMRC advisory rates) Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers’ contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity. To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/ We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group. If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies, discuss career opportunities in strict confidence or need anything to make our recruitment process easier, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly or via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible. As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships. Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Bid Writer

Location: Warrington

Job Type: Bid

Application Deadline: 14-02-2025

We’re offering an exceptional opportunity for a Bid Writer to join our Smartspace Work Winning Team. In this key role, you’ll shape high-quality submissions that articulate our value, tell compelling stories, and secure new business. If you are someone who thrives on creating exceptional work, values precision, and enjoys working in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, we want to hear from you.As a Bid Writer, you’ll play an integral part in our success by: Crafting Excellence: Producing well-structured, professionally written documents that convey our unique value and winning themes. Collaborative Engagement: Working closely with the Bid Manager and technical experts to gather insights, ensuring submissions align with client expectations. Shaping Responses: Leading storyboarding and mind mapping sessions to develop cohesive, innovative submissions. Streamlining Processes: Curating and managing a library of reusable, high-quality content to improve efficiency and consistency. Detail-Driven Execution: Balancing multiple priorities, managing workflows, and ensuring every submission meets the highest standard. Building Connections: Liaising across teams to ensure submissions are informed by accurate, up-to-date company and industry knowledge.What We OfferThis is more than just a writing role. It’s an opportunity to take ownership of submissions that make a tangible difference to our business. At Smartspace, you’ll join a supportive, forward-thinking team where your skills and ideas will be valued, and your career can flourish.Other benefits include: Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car * Travel covered to any of our sites* Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.(*Subject to role…….)To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies or to discuss career opportunities in strict confidence, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible.As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Senior Design Manager

Location: London NW1

Job Type: Design

Application Deadline: 14-02-2025

Are you ready to lead from the front in delivering innovative, high-impact fit-out and refurbishment projects? Wates Smartspace is looking for an exceptional Senior Design Manager to join our established team and take the reins in ensuring the smooth, safe, and successful delivery of a wide range of projects. If you have a passion for design, a keen eye for detail, and the drive to inspire teams, this is the opportunity for you.What You’ll Do:As Senior Design Manager, you’ll be the driving force behind the design process, offering visible leadership and providing direction across multiple projects. You’ll collaborate with key stakeholders to ensure all proposals are thorough and aligned with business goals, leading the creation of project-specific agreements and plans. With your expertise, you’ll review and manage design progress, ensuring that all health and safety measures are adhered to from day one and that designs are practical, buildable, and aligned with customer expectations.Managing the design team on-site, you’ll ensure that the design is executed smoothly, efficiently, and on schedule—coordinating with subcontractors, suppliers, and project teams to meet both project and business objectives. Your leadership will not only ensure that deadlines are met but will also contribute to the continuous improvement of the team and the projects we deliver.What We’re Looking For:We want a Senior Design Manager who’s got the vision, experience, and energy to transform ideas into reality. You’ll have a proven track record in managing design delivery within the Interiors Cat A and Cat B fit-out and refurbishment sector, with extensive knowledge of construction materials, methods, and the latest technology. Whether you’re a Chartered Architect, Engineer, or MCIOB, we’re looking for someone who can manage complex design projects, navigate contract and procurement processes, and inspire a team to achieve excellence.You’ll have experience leading a team across diverse sectors and be driven by a passion for HSE compliance, risk management, and value creation. Your communication skills will be top-notch, with a positive, engaging, and supportive approach that motivates and educates the team and the wider business.Why Join Us?At Wates Smartspace, you’re not just another employee—you’re part of a forward-thinking team that thrives on collaboration, innovation, and delivering quality. We give you the tools, support, and autonomy you need to make a real impact. If you’re ready to step up, share your expertise, and shape the future of design delivery, apply now and take your career to the next level with Wates Smartspace.Other benefits include: Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car * Travel covered to any of our sites* Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.(*Subject to role…….)To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting

Senior Estimator

Location: London NW1

Job Type: Estimating

Application Deadline: 14-02-2025

Are you ready to make your mark on technically complex, high-profile projects that redefine spaces and inspire people?At Wates, we’re searching for a dynamic Senior Estimator to join our Refurb and Fitout Team, working across multiple sectors to deliver excellence every step of the way.This is more than a role—it’s a chance to innovate, challenge conventions, and shape the future of construction as part of a diverse, supportive, and forward-thinking team.Our Senior Estimators are a valuable part of our business, where they effectively utilise skills, experience and knowledge within a team environment to produce tenders, establish opportunities and prepare competitive estimates. As our Senior Estimator you will be responsible for: Cost Planning and Estimation: Lead the preparation of accurate and competitive cost estimates from initial concept through to detailed submission. Collaboration and Coordination: Work closely with surveyors, designers, and project teams to prepare quantified schedules of rates and bills of quantities. Risk and Opportunity Management: Identify risks, establish opportunities, and ensure comprehensive tender reviews to support winning submissions. Pre-Tender Engagement: Prepare tender summaries and participate in pre-price and price meetings to ensure all elements are aligned with project goals. Innovation and Efficiency: Leverage market insights and fresh approaches to deliver value engineering solutions and maintain competitive edge.WHAT WE OFFER Competitive salary & profit share scheme Flexible working Car Allowance / Company Car * Travel covered to any of our sites* Extensive corporate benefits including, Private Medical, Pension 8% employers contribution, Health and Wellness programme, 26 days holidays + bank holidays and much more… One of the best learning and development programmes which is customizable to support your career progression goals. (c.7000 training sessions delivered year to date across the WATES Group) Industry leading family leave benefits to included 26 weeks fully paid maternity, 12 weeks fully paid paternity.(*Subject to role…….)To find out more about LIFE AT WATES please click on the following link https://www.wates.co.uk/careers/We are always looking for a variety of new talent to join our teams, to help us grow and innovate as a business. Although you may not have all of the skills listed, many of them may be transferable to other roles within the WATES Group.If you would like clarity on any of our vacancies or to discuss career opportunities in strict confidence, please contact our In-House Recruitment Team directly via recruitment@wates.co.uk and one of us will get in touch as soon as possible.As a responsible and inclusive employer, we are committed to equality and are proud to have been recognised for this through a range of accolades including gold accreditation with Investors in People, we are also a Disability Confident employer. Being a family owned, business means we understand and value long term relationships.Given the nature of this position, you will need to undergo a Basic Disclosure and Barring Service Check (DBS) at offer stage. Applicants with criminal convictions will be assessed individually, and we assure you that we do not discriminate based on an applicant's criminal record or the details of any disclosed offenses. Additionally, certain roles may be subject to additional pre-employment checks. To learn more about the checks included in this process, please click on the following link: National Security Vetting


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