Design Lead (REF 1257)
- £45,000 – £50,000 DOE
- Surrey
An exciting opportunity has arisen for a talented Design Lead to join a thriving and creative business. Wea are looking for a senior designer with excellent experience in packaging design and artwork creation for retail products who is looking to step into a senior role that combines creativity, leadership, and strategic input.
As part of a close-knit and innovative team, you will be responsible for creating trend-led, commercial designs for leading retailers both in the UK and internationally. You will use your commercial awareness to produce trend forecasts and guide the design direction, inspiring the design team. The successful applicant will have the ability to translate ideas into high-quality visuals and production-ready assets, and have good 3D modelling capabilities. Additionally, as second in command to the Head of Design, you’ll take on team management responsibilities, supporting the team with mentorship, project management, and creative direction.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Create new product design concepts and visuals for leading key account retail customers
- Align all design work with retailer brand guidelines and work closely with internal teams for approvals
- Collaborate with the NPD team to develop innovative concepts and draft briefs for the design department
- Create high-quality 3D models and renders for customer presentations and pitches
- Monitor and research market trends, conducting competitive analysis and trend forecasting through comp shops and trade show visits
- Produce print ready packaging and product artwork for factory samples
- Review and approve final production artwork
- Act as deputy to the Head of Design
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards in coordination with internal teams
- Participate in recruitment for the design team
- Mentor junior designers and support onboarding and training of new team members
What we are looking for in you:
- Strong experience in product, graphic, and packaging design – ideally in within gifting, beauty, homewares or similar
- Commercially savvy with a passion for trend and innovation
- Experience in leading projects, and managing and mentoring more junior team members
- Expert in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, Dimension)
- Proficient in Fusion 360 or similar 3D software
- Excellent project management, organisational and time management abilities
- Outstanding communication skills
- A proactive problem-solver who anticipates challenges and delivers solutions
- Thrives in a fast-paced role and environment
