At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead product design projects from concept to launch, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.
- Company: Dynamic consumer products company focused on innovation and quality.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 25 days holiday, private healthcare, and staff discounts.
- Other info: Office-based role with some flexibility for hybrid working in Southampton.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by designing products that meet customer needs and brand standards.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and 4+ years of experience in product design.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
A growing consumer products company is seeking a Lead Product Designer to take ownership of a portfolio of products within its New Product Development function. This is a senior, hands-on role responsible for leading projects from early concept through to production launch, coordinating internal specialists and external manufacturing partners. You will act as the technical and commercial lead for your product category, balancing design quality, cost, and delivery timelines.
Key Responsibilities
- Own end-to-end delivery of multiple product development projects within a defined category
- Lead CAD development of complex assemblies from concept through to production release
- Build and test physical prototypes to validate mechanisms and concepts early
- Coordinate input from product designers, industrial designers, and pattern makers as required
- Manage product cost targets and development budgets
- Work directly with overseas manufacturing partners through sampling and production ramp-up
- Ensure products meet customer expectations, brand standards, and commercial objectives
Requirements
- Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Industrial Design, or similar
- 4+ years’ experience delivering complex consumer or physical products to market
- Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and supplier engagement
- Proficiency in CAD and visualisation tools (e.g. SolidWorks/Rhino, Keyshot, Adobe Suite)
- Confident communicator with the ability to influence stakeholders
- Comfortable leading projects without direct line management responsibility
What’s Offered
- Competitive salary (£40k–£50k depending on experience)
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays
- Private healthcare and pension
- Staff discount
- Office-based role with some flexibility for hybrid working (Southampton area)
Product Design Manager in Portsmouth employer: Platform Recruitment
As a leading consumer products company, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to take ownership of their projects. With competitive salaries, generous holiday allowances, and opportunities for professional growth, we ensure that our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Located in the vibrant Southampton area, our office offers a collaborative environment where creativity meets practicality, making it an ideal place for passionate individuals to contribute to exciting product developments.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Design Manager in Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the product design field and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have a lead or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your work! Create a portfolio that highlights your best projects, especially those that demonstrate your ability to manage complex product development. Make sure it’s easily accessible online, so potential employers can see your skills in action.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to product design and project management. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your experience that showcase your ability to lead projects and collaborate with teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic roles waiting for talented individuals like you. Keep an eye on our listings and make sure your application stands out!
We think you need these skills to ace Product Design Manager in Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Product Design Manager role. Highlight your experience in leading product development projects and your proficiency in CAD tools. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about product design and how your background makes you the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to mention any relevant projects you've led.
Showcase Your Portfolio:If you have a portfolio of your work, make sure to include it! We love seeing your design process and the products you've brought to life. It gives us a better idea of your style and capabilities.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it reaches the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Platform Recruitment
✨Know Your Portfolio
Before the interview, make sure you have a solid understanding of your past projects. Be ready to discuss specific examples where you led product design from concept to launch, highlighting your role in managing budgets and timelines.
✨Master the Technical Details
Brush up on your CAD skills and be prepared to talk about the tools you’ve used, like SolidWorks or Rhino. You might even want to bring a portfolio showcasing your designs and prototypes to demonstrate your technical prowess.
✨Understand Manufacturing Processes
Since this role involves working closely with manufacturing partners, it’s crucial to show that you understand the production side of things. Familiarise yourself with common manufacturing challenges and how you’ve navigated them in the past.
✨Communicate Confidently
As a Lead Product Designer, you’ll need to influence various stakeholders. Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently, and think of examples where you successfully communicated complex concepts to non-technical team members.
