Furniture Design Manager

The Furniture Design Manager is responsible for overseeing the design and development of furniture products, ensuring alignment with brand identity, market trends, and customer needs. This role involves leading a team of designers, collaborating with other departments such as production and marketing, and driving innovation in furniture design. The ideal candidate possesses a blend of creative vision, technical skills, and leadership ability to deliver functional, aesthetic, and marketable furniture pieces.

Key Responsibilities

1. Design Management

. Oversee the end-to-end design process, from concept creation to final product development.

. Ensure designs align with brand standards, customer preferences, and market trends.

. Approve design sketches, 3D models, and prototypes to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications.

2. Team Leadership

. Lead and mentor a team of designers, fostering a collaborative and creative work environment.

. Assign projects, set priorities, and ensure timely project completion.

. Provide constructive feedback to enhance team members skills and growth.

3. Product Development

. Collaborate with the product development team to transition designs into manufacturable products.

. Work with suppliers and material vendors to select quality materials that align with design and cost requirements.

. Ensure that designs consider functionality, durability, and cost-effectiveness.

4. Market Research & Trend Analysis

. Conduct market research to identify current trends, customer preferences, and competitor offerings.

. Use research insights to guide design direction and keep the brand's product line relevant and innovative.

. Attend trade shows, workshops, and design exhibitions to stay updated on industry advancements.

5. Quality Assurance

. Oversee quality checks and standards across the design and production processes.

. Ensure that all furniture designs meet ergonomic, functional, and safety standards.

. Resolve design issues during the prototype and manufacturing phases.

6. Cross-Functional Collaboration

. Work closely with the sales and marketing teams to understand customer feedback and market demands.

. Partner with engineering and production teams to ensure feasibility and manufacturability of designs.

. Collaborate on marketing materials and product presentations.

7. Budget and Timeline Management

. Manage the design team's budget and ensure projects are completed within financial limits.

. Develop project timelines, track progress, and ensure timely delivery of all design initiatives.

Qualifications

. Education: Bachelor's degree in Furniture Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, or a related field.

. Experience: At least 5-7 years of experience in furniture design, with a minimum of 2-3 years in a managerial or supervisory role.

. Skills:

. Strong aesthetic and creative abilities, with an eye for detail.

. Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, 3D Studio Max, and Adobe Creative Suite.

. Knowledge of furniture manufacturing processes, materials, and construction techniques.

. Excellent leadership and project management skills.

. Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.

Preferred Skills

. Familiarity with sustainable design practices.

. Experience working with international teams or remote design/production partners.

. Knowledge of marketing principles to effectively position and present furniture products.

Working Conditions

. Primarily office-based, with occasional travel to manufacturing sites and trade shows.

. Collaborative work with cross-functional teams and regular communication with external vendors and clients.