At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative design solutions for Colour, Materials & Finishes in a dynamic team.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking design team focused on creativity and sustainability.
- Benefits: Hybrid work model, competitive pay, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting role with potential for career advancement in a creative environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in design while collaborating with top industry professionals.
- 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.
Lead Designer - Colour, Materials & Finishes in Chester employer: Tiro Contracts - Contract & Interim Solutions
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 flexible hybrid working environment, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to sustainability in design, making this an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the automotive industry.
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 Chester
✨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.
✨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!
✨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 in Chester
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 tackled design challenges in the past, so pick pieces that really highlight your skills!
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send out the same CV for every application! We recommend tailoring your CV to highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description. This shows us you’re genuinely interested in the role and understand what we’re looking for.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for the Lead Designer role. Share your passion for CMF design and how your background aligns with our vision. Keep it engaging and personal!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss any important updates about the process. Plus, we love seeing applications come in through our own platform!
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 automotive design. Be ready to discuss the thought process behind each piece.
✨Understand the Brand and Product Strategy
Before the interview, research the company’s brand values and product strategy. This will help you tailor your design proposals to fit their vision. Show them how your innovative ideas can enhance their product offerings while aligning with their sustainability goals.
✨Prepare for Cross-Functional Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with various teams, be prepared to discuss your experience in cross-functional collaboration. Share specific examples of how you've successfully worked with engineering or supplier partners to bring your designs to life.
✨Practice Presenting to Senior Stakeholders
You’ll need to present your ideas to senior stakeholders, so practice articulating your design concepts clearly and confidently. Use visual aids like 2D and 3D mock-ups to support your presentation and engage your audience effectively.
