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- Tasks: Lead a creative design team from concept to production in the body armour industry.
- Company: Join Safariland, a leader in protective solutions for law enforcement and military.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative team making a real impact in safety and performance.
- Qualifications: Strong design background and leadership experience in relevant industries required.
- Other info: Position available in Warrington, UK or Kaunas, Lithuania.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join our Safariland EU Armor team. As a key member of our newly formed EU Armor Leadership group, this role provides design direction and team management from concept through manufacturability across our international product range. The role provides an opportunity to work collaboratively with our commercial team, specialist distributors, and our end users. The successful individual will lead our EU design team in continuing to be creative and solution-oriented whilst fostering their passion for performance, fit, quality, and technology.
LOCATION: Warrington UK or Kaunas Lithuania
RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE (but not limited to):
- Build and lead a best-in-class design team that is streamlined and efficiently supporting international sales.
- Manage the team (UK and Lithuania), from first pattern through production, grading, nesting, and marker making to product completion.
- Work directly with engineering and management to create a baseline of compelling products for the international Law Enforcement, military, and defense industries.
- Partner with Sales to understand end user needs and provide customized solutions.
- Understand and apply innovation in design, technology, and materials.
- Communicate concepts and ideas through visual, verbal, and written means.
- Source and develop new technical high-performance materials for shell fabrics, linings, load-bearing systems, including soft goods/hard goods load-bearing systems.
- Attend related trade shows, interact continuously with customers and suppliers.
- Collaborate closely with US Armor Category Management.
- Expand sourcing options as necessary to meet specific materials needs and goals.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Strong design background in relevant industry (Body Armor, tactical goods, sportswear industry).
- Engaging leader with previous experience of leading a team of designers.
- Knowledge of patternmaking (Gerber, Optitex, and/or other PDS systems).
- Illustrator with first-class sketch design and patternmaking skills.
- Detail-oriented, able to multitask and delegate.
- Strong team player, able to clearly communicate across internal cross-functional teams, internal and external sales, distributors, and suppliers.
Head of Product Design employer: JR United Kingdom
Contact Detail:
JR United Kingdom Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Product Design
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the body armour and tactical goods industry. Attend relevant trade shows and events to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends, which can give you an edge in interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the specific design tools mentioned in the job description, such as Gerber and Optitex. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these systems during discussions can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and past experiences managing design teams. Highlight how you've fostered creativity and innovation in your previous roles, as this is crucial for the Head of Product Design position.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s current product range and identify areas for improvement or innovation. Being able to present your ideas on how to enhance their offerings can show your proactive approach and genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Product Design
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your design background, leadership experience, and familiarity with patternmaking systems. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to lead a design team and deliver innovative solutions.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for product design and how it aligns with the company's mission. Mention your experience in the body armour or tactical goods industry and how you can contribute to their EU Armor team.
Showcase Your Design Skills: If possible, include a portfolio of your previous work that showcases your design skills, particularly in relevant industries. Highlight projects where you led a team or developed innovative products that met user needs.
Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your design philosophy, leadership style, and how you approach collaboration with cross-functional teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed projects from concept to production.
How to prepare for a job interview at JR United Kingdom
✨Showcase Your Design Portfolio
Make sure to bring a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best work. Include examples that demonstrate your design process, from concept sketches to final products, especially in the body armour or tactical goods sectors.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading design teams. Share specific examples of how you've motivated your team, managed projects, and fostered creativity while meeting deadlines.
✨Understand the Market Needs
Research the company’s target market, particularly in law enforcement and military sectors. Be ready to discuss how you can tailor designs to meet the specific needs of end users and how you would approach collaboration with sales teams.
✨Communicate Clearly and Effectively
Practice articulating your ideas clearly, both visually and verbally. During the interview, ensure you can explain your design concepts and decisions in a way that resonates with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
