At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of innovative colours and materials for future motorcycles.
- Company: Join an iconic British motorcycle brand with over 120 years of history.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 33 days holiday, private medical insurance, and more.
- Other info: Experience a dynamic environment with exciting team events and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of motorcycle design and work with a passionate team.
- Qualifications: 10 years in CMF or product design with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
We’re not just another bike brand - we're an iconic, British motorcycle brand with over 120 years of history behind us. Our new state-of-the-art facilities in Solihull, West Midlands are home to a tight-knit, but ever-expanding team that's passionate about delivering exquisite riding experiences to our customers. Under new ownership and proud to be part of the TVS Motor family, we're entering a new era of global success. And we want you to be a part of it! At Norton, we value respect, trust, and responsibility. We trust our employees to execute their roles exceptionally and professionally, and we value personal development, teaching, and learning. When you join our team, you'll have the opportunity to grow and learn alongside some of the most talented and dedicated people in the business. So if you're passionate about motorcycles and looking to join a team that's shaping the future of this legendary brand, we'd love to hear from you!
The Role
As Lead CMF Designer, you will be responsible for shaping and delivering Norton’s Colour and Material vision through strategic thinking, advanced research, and innovative execution. You will lead the development of future-facing CMF strategies, whitespace innovation projects, and concept programmes that align with both design ambition and business objectives. You will play a key role in identifying emerging trends, material technologies, and sustainable innovations that will influence the future of motorcycle design. A passion for visual quality, craftsmanship, responsible design, and material innovation is essential. This role requires a highly collaborative and influential creative leader with the ability to inspire teams, manage complex projects, and elevate the CMF discipline across the organisation.
Duties/Responsibilities
- Lead the development of Norton’s Colour, Material and Finish strategy across future vehicle programmes and concept projects
- Research customer insights, market shifts, emerging trends, and material technologies to identify opportunities for next-generation products
- Drive the creation and development of innovative colours, materials, finishes, and surface treatments
- Lead the creation of both digital and physical CMF assets to communicate strategic design direction
- Develop and implement CMF proposals for concept motorcycles, vision projects, and future production programmes
- Create compelling visual storytelling and multimedia presentations to communicate creative direction and strategic intent
- Manage and lead CMF-related concept and vision vehicle builds from ideation through to execution
- Produce high-quality renderings, documentation, and planning materials to support design development and asset creation
- Conduct competitor benchmarking and research across automotive, motorcycle, luxury, and analogous industries
- Translate innovative material concepts from 2D ideation into high-quality 3D product applications
- Collaborate closely with external suppliers and development partners to deliver innovative material solutions
- Provide mentorship, creative direction, and technical guidance within the wider design team
- Present work confidently to senior leadership, including the Head of Design
- Support customer clinics, product research activities, and feedback sessions where required
- Champion and elevate the CMF discipline both internally and externally
- Lead and support team development, recruitment, engagement, and wellbeing initiatives
Essential Experience
- Circa 10 years experience within CMF, product, automotive, or motorcycle design
- Expert understanding of colour, material, and finish development with strong aesthetic judgement and colour perception
- Proven experience leading strategic CMF programmes, innovation projects, and concept development
- Strong knowledge of automotive/motorcycle and analogous industry materials, technologies, processes, and suppliers
- Excellent visual communication and presentation skills
- Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, alongside Microsoft Office
- Strong awareness of contemporary luxury brands, emerging technologies, and digital research platforms
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to collaborate across all levels
- Demonstrated leadership experience managing creative content and people
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deliver to demanding timelines
- Agile, adaptable, and highly collaborative working style
- Relevant degree or equivalent industry experience
Desirable Experience
- Experience adapting to evolving design, feasibility, and cost constraints
- Global studio or international design experience
Rewards of working for Norton
We like to take care of our Nortoneers and we think we offer some pretty decent rewards. Here's what you'll get when you join the team:
- Competitive salary package that recognises your skills and experience
- 33 days of holiday (inc. Bank Hols) to relax and recharge
- Generous pension scheme that sets you up for the future, with access to personalised advice.
- Private Medical Insurance and a Cash Back Programme to keep you feeling your best
- Life insurance (4x salary) because we've got your back no matter what
- FREE fruit, got to have your five-a-day!
- WeCare Employee Assistance Programme, which includes access to online GP services, dietary advice, mental health support, bereavement counselling, and a fitness programme
- Experience the thrill of an entrepreneurial environment within a larger, well-funded company with ambitious long-term goals.
- Elevate your career with our Ideas for Excellence scheme, where every brilliant idea is not just valued, but also rewarded!
- A diverse and international team that brings together different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences.
- Join the fun with our twice-yearly employee events, payday socials, and loads of exciting activities in between!
- Want to go green? You can enjoy free electric bicycle hire
- Plus, no need to stress about finding a parking spot - we've got on-site free parking covered and FREE electric charge points
We know how important it is to take care of our team, and we're committed to continually improving our reward offering in line with the business growth plan. Join us and see for yourself!
Lead CMF Designer: Shaping Future Motorcycle Materials employer: Norton Motorcycles
At Norton, we pride ourselves on being an iconic British motorcycle brand with a rich history and a bright future. Our state-of-the-art facilities in Solihull foster a collaborative and innovative work culture where employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills. With competitive salaries, generous benefits, and a commitment to employee wellbeing, we offer a rewarding environment for those passionate about shaping the future of motorcycle design.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead CMF Designer: Shaping Future Motorcycle Materials
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the motorcycle and design industries on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, attend events, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to share your love for motorcycles and design. Bring your ideas to the table and discuss how you can contribute to shaping the future of the brand.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s history and values. Understand their current projects and challenges. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our iconic brand. Let’s shape the future together!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead CMF Designer: Shaping Future Motorcycle Materials
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your love for motorcycles shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for the industry and how it aligns with our iconic brand. Share any personal experiences or projects that highlight your passion for design and innovation.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Lead CMF Designer role. Highlight relevant experience in CMF, product design, and any leadership roles you've held. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead, so don’t shy away from showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for Norton. Be sure to connect your skills and experiences directly to the responsibilities outlined in the job description. We love a good story, so make it engaging and memorable!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and being part of this exciting new era at Norton!
How to prepare for a job interview at Norton Motorcycles
✨Know Your CMF Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of colour, material, and finish development. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you've led CMF strategies. Show them you understand the latest trends and technologies in the motorcycle industry.
✨Showcase Your Visual Communication Skills
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best work in visual storytelling and multimedia presentations. Be ready to present your ideas confidently, as this role requires excellent communication skills. Practice explaining your design choices and how they align with business objectives.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Experience
Since this position involves leading teams and managing complex projects, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully guided others in previous roles. Highlight your ability to inspire creativity and collaboration within a team setting.
✨Research Norton and Its Values
Familiarise yourself with Norton's history, values, and current projects. Understanding their commitment to craftsmanship and responsible design will help you connect your passion for motorcycles with their mission. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but in being part of their legacy.
