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- Tasks: Lead innovative design solutions for colour, materials, and finishes in exciting products.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking design team in a dynamic environment.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible working with occasional travel to suppliers and trade shows.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on future-focused design while collaborating with creative minds.
- Qualifications: Experience in CMF design, strong portfolio, and proficiency in design tools.
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.
Lead Designer - Colour, Materials & Finishes in Cheshire employer: Tiro Contracts - Contract & Interim Solutions
Contact Detail:
Tiro Contracts - Contract & Interim Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Designer - Colour, Materials & Finishes in Cheshire
✨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 confidently during interviews to showcase your skills and creativity.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company’s design philosophy and recent projects. Tailor your answers to show how your experience aligns with their vision—this will make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Designer - Colour, Materials & Finishes in Cheshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Portfolio: Make sure to include a strong portfolio that showcases your best 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 within the automotive sector. We love seeing how your background aligns with our needs, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make sure your passion for design shines through without any fluff.
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 with our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tiro Contracts - Contract & Interim Solutions
✨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.
✨Research the Company
Before the interview, dive deep into the company's design philosophy and recent projects. Understanding their approach to colour, materials, and finishes will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their vision.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions about your design process and the tools you use, like Photoshop and 3D CAD software. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you've faced in past projects and how you overcame them, as this will showcase your expertise and leadership abilities.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll be presenting ideas to senior stakeholders, practice articulating your design concepts clearly and confidently. Use visual aids if possible, and be prepared to answer questions about your design choices and how they align with sustainability and innovation.