At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative design solutions for colour, materials, and finishes in future products.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking design team in the automotive industry.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a focus on sustainability and craftsmanship.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on product design while collaborating with creative minds.
- Qualifications: Experience in CMF design, strong portfolio, and proficiency in design software.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
We are seeking an experienced Lead CMF (Colour, Materials & Finishes) Designer to join a forward-thinking design team. Reporting to the Head of Colour and Trim, you will lead the creation and development of innovative design solutions across future products. This is an exciting opportunity to play a senior role within a collaborative, design-led environment—driving creativity, innovation, and high-quality design execution across a dynamic product portfolio.
What's on offer:
- You'll join a collaborative CMF & Bespoke team working closely with design, engineering, and supplier partners.
- The team focuses on bringing surfaces to life through colour, material innovation, and craftsmanship while embedding sustainability and future-focused design thinking.
- Contract: ASAP start to 30 June 2027
- PAYE / umbrella (inside IR35)
- Hybrid - 3 days onsite per week (flexible based on business needs) with occasional UK travel to suppliers and trade shows
- 37 hours per week
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the development of CMF design proposals from concept through to production
- Deliver innovative, forward-thinking design solutions aligned to brand and product strategy
- Develop and present design concepts in 2D, 3D, and digital formats
- Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams and external suppliers
- Support problem solving and feasibility within design and production constraints
- Present ideas and concepts to senior stakeholders, including at director level
- Conduct research, benchmarking, and trend analysis
What We're Looking For:
- Proven experience within a CMF design role, ideally within automotive (OEM or supplier)
- Strong portfolio demonstrating conceptual and/or production design work
- Experience leading or managing design projects
- Degree in Design (Product, Automotive, Interior, Fashion or similar) or equivalent experience
- Proficiency in Photoshop and familiarity with 3D CAD tools
- Knowledge of tools such as VRed (preferred, not essential)
- Strong digital and visualisation skills
What Next?
Apply below to share your CV or call our offices for full details - 01277 354469
Tiro is a specialist Employment Agency & Employment Business assisting with both contract and permanent opportunities in high performance cars, motorsport, software, electronics, engineering & manufacturing. Please note your call may be recorded for training or monitoring processes.
Lead Designer - Colour, Materials & Finishes employer: LinkedIn
Join a dynamic and innovative design team as a Lead CMF Designer, where creativity and collaboration are at the heart of our work culture. We offer a supportive environment that prioritises employee growth through hands-on experience and cross-functional collaboration, alongside the flexibility of a hybrid working model. With a focus on sustainability and cutting-edge design, this role provides a unique opportunity to shape the future of product design while working closely with industry leaders and suppliers.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Designer - Colour, Materials & Finishes
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the design industry, especially those who work in CMF. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best CMF projects. When you get the chance, present it in person or via video call to really showcase your skills and passion.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s design ethos and recent projects. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their vision—this will make you stand out as a candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Designer - Colour, Materials & Finishes
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Portfolio:Make sure to include a strong portfolio that showcases your CMF design work. We want to see your creativity and how you've brought surfaces to life through colour and materials!
Tailor Your CV:Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in CMF design, especially if you’ve worked in automotive. We love seeing how your background aligns with our needs!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets right to the heart of your skills and experiences.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at LinkedIn
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best CMF design work. Include a variety of projects that demonstrate your creativity and problem-solving skills, especially those that align with the automotive industry.
✨Understand the Brand
Research the company’s brand identity and product strategy before the interview. Be prepared to discuss how your design philosophy aligns with their vision and how you can contribute to their innovative approach.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about your proficiency in design tools like Photoshop and 3D CAD software. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in past projects to deliver successful outcomes.
✨Practice Presenting Your Ideas
Since you'll need to present concepts to senior stakeholders, practice articulating your design ideas clearly and confidently. Use visual aids if possible, and be ready to explain your thought process and the rationale behind your design choices.
