BASIC FUNCTION
The design manager is a specialized and global role leading and coordinating the innovation process within the assigned business category. Develop products, services, and experience strategies aligned with business objectives. Create buy-in for design vision both internally and with key business partners.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
1.Lead and collaborate with business partners to ensure the success of new product strategies and development.
2.Communicate and manage expectations aligned with the trio team throughout the development process.
3.Identify opportunities and develop design strategies outlining how the designers will create deliverables and implement them for projects.
4.Manage all aspects of the design process that the business uses to create and introduce products to the market.
5.Lead by example and hands-on. Manage a team of 2-3 designers. Lead, guide, and evaluate individual design deliverables and overall category performance.
6.Monitor and maintain a competitive landscape of competitive products for benchmarking design quality and performance.
7.Collaborate with both internal teams and external resources to ensure the consistency of the quality of design and user experience, aligning with KOHLER Brand identity.
RELATIONSHIPS AND CONTACTS
Supervisory Relationships:
1.Reports to Director – Kohler China Design Studio
2.Directly manages the design team of both bathroom & kitchen faucets, sinks, and accessory categories.
Organizational and External Business Relationships:
1.Continuously work with key stakeholders of the new product development team, including Design, Marketing, Engineering, etc.
2.Frequent contact with industry leaders to remain on the leading edge of trends and industry practices.
3.Occasional contact with design consultants.
4.Occasional contact with vendors and suppliers.
5.Attends industry trade shows and seminars as needed to maintain awareness of competitor products, designs, and overall product design trends.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
·Minimum of 10 years of experience in a fast-paced product development environment with a strong portfolio of relevant products & services.
·Minimum of 5 years of experience managing a creative design team.
·Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited university or college of design with an academic emphasis on product design.
·Strong sense of design styles and form factors. In-depth knowledge of manufacturing techniques and expertise in color, materials, and finishing implementation.
·A master’s degree is a plus, and strong experience in a bilingual working environment (English & Mandarin) is preferred.
Why Choose Kohler?
We empower each associate to #BecomeMoreAtKohler with a competitive total rewards package to support your health and wellbeing, access to career growth and development opportunities, a diverse and inclusive workplace, and a strong culture of innovation. With more than 30,000 bold leaders across the globe, we’re driving meaningful change in our mission to help people live gracious, healthy, and sustainable lives.
About Us
It is Kohler’s policy to recruit, hire, and promote qualified applicants without regard to race, creed, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, national origin, disability or status as a protected veteran. If, as an individual with a disability, you need reasonable accommodation during the recruitment process, please contact kohlerjobs@kohler.com. Kohler Co. is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.