Colour Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Colour Design Consultant

Company: PPG Industries

Location: Birstall, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time, Contract (12 Months)

Category: GTM Operations / Design & Marketing Support

Date Posted: 2026-05-29

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 Years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (On-site presence required)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role serves as a crucial liaison between PPG's colour expertise and its customer base, focusing on driving adoption of the "Voice of Colour Palette" within key market sectors.

• The consultant will leverage digital platforms and design tools to create compelling colour solutions, aiming to enhance PPG's credibility in the specification market and disrupt competitor strategies.

• A core function is to provide expert colour advice and trend insights to various customer segments, including Trade Direct, Specification, Stockists, and the Decorating Centre Network.

• This position requires a blend of creative design acumen, technical proficiency with design software, and strong project management skills to deliver impactful colour strategies and support business growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Colour Design Consultant," the responsibilities heavily lean into Go-To-Market (GTM) operations by supporting sales and marketing efforts through specialized design and colour expertise. The role requires influencing customer choices and driving business activity, aligning it with GTM strategic support. The contract nature and specific product focus (paint and coatings) suggest a role within a B2B or B2B2C context, requiring operations understanding to effectively support sales channels.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver bespoke colour design solutions tailored to specific market sectors (Education, Social Housing, Healthcare, Hospitality), adhering to industry standards and legislations.

• Enhance and evolve existing CAD and Digital Design services, integrating the PPG "Voice of Colour" brand palette to elevate visual presentation and customer engagement.

• Create pre-defined CAD edited images and comprehensive colour renderings to strategically support sales opportunities and enhance PPG's competitive advantage.

• Provide expert colour insight and trend analysis to internal teams (Trade Direct, Specification, Stockists, Decorating Centre Network, Marketing) and external customers, ensuring PPG's offerings remain market-leading and relevant.

• Translate customer style preferences and architectural needs into effective colour choices, demonstrating a deep understanding of regional palettes and aesthetic appeal.

• Drive end-to-end business activity through the ClientLink platform, meticulously documenting all interactions, data, and progress for transparency and efficiency.

• Extend specialized technical colour support and innovative solutions to Product Creation (PC) and External Wall Insulation (EWI) teams to maximize sales opportunities and achieve a competitive edge.

• Offer daily colour advice and provide physical samples to support the DIY market segment, ensuring a consistent and high-quality customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic GTM support and operational execution. The emphasis on "disrupting competitor paths to market" and "driving end to end business activity through the ClientLink platform" points to a role that requires not just design skills but also an understanding of sales processes, CRM utilization, and market penetration strategies, which are core to GTM operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Preferred: National diploma in Art, Design, Architecture, or a related field; or equivalent qualification through extensive experience.

• Preferred: Education to diploma standard or equivalent practical experience.

Experience:

• Experience in colour design and architecture, with a strong understanding of the painting and decorating industry.

• Proven track record in colour and design application.

Required Skills:

• Essential: Proficient verbal and written communication skills, facilitating clear interaction with diverse stakeholders.

• Essential: Strong knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, PowerPoint, and web-based applications for reporting and communication.

• Essential: Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop for image editing and visual content creation.

• Essential: Excellent project management and organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize effectively and manage deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• Preferred: Ability to prepare comprehensive reports and presentations, analyze complex information, and disseminate it clearly and concisely under pressure.

• Preferred: Familiarity with ClientLink or similar CRM platforms for tracking business activities.

• Preferred: Knowledge of colour psychology and its application in design.

• Preferred: A Full UK Driving License, indicating readiness for client site visits or sample delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of "design," "digital platforms," "Microsoft Office," "Adobe Photoshop," and "ClientLink" suggests a hybrid role requiring both creative skills and operational tool proficiency. The emphasis on "project management," "self-driven," and "recognizing key priorities" indicates a need for operational discipline and efficiency, common in GTM operations support roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Examples showcasing end-to-end colour design projects from concept to client delivery, demonstrating process flow and decision-making.

• Case studies detailing how colour solutions were designed to meet specific client needs, market trends, or architectural styles, emphasizing problem-solving.

• Visual documentation of CAD projects, including before-and-after transformations and the application of PPG's "Voice of Colour" palette.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrations of how colour trends and industry developments were identified, analyzed, and translated into actionable design advice or content.

• Examples of workflow management for client requests, including sample provision, colour rendering, and ClientLink data entry.

• Documentation of collaboration processes with internal teams (e.g., PC, EWI) to integrate colour advice into broader sales and technical strategies.

• Evidence of managing and prioritizing multiple client requests simultaneously while meeting deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design-focused role with operational responsibilities, a portfolio should not only showcase creative output but also the candidate's ability to manage projects, engage with clients, utilize specific tools, and contribute to business objectives. Highlighting process and impact is key for operations-minded roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage as per PPG's standard plans.

• Well-being Programs: Access to initiatives designed to support employee mental and physical health.

• Pension Scheme: Contribution towards retirement savings.

• Paid Time Off: Holiday allowance and sick leave provisions.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and skill enhancement relevant to colour design and industry trends.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time contract of 38 hours per week, typically Monday to Friday.

• While the role is primarily office-based, a hybrid arrangement may allow for some flexibility, with specific days in the office to be agreed upon.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar contract roles in the UK, considering the specialized nature of colour design consultancy and the mid-level experience required. Benefits are inferred from common corporate offerings and PPG's stated commitment to employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Chemicals (Coatings, Specialty Materials). PPG Industries is a global leader in paints, coatings, and specialty materials, serving diverse markets including industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction. This industry context means the role operates within a B2B environment with a strong emphasis on product application, technical specifications, and client relationships.

Company Size: PPG Industries is a large, publicly traded corporation with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. This scale implies structured processes, established career paths, and a robust operational framework, offering stability and resources for employees.

Founded: PPG was founded in 1883, bringing a long history of innovation and market leadership. This longevity suggests a deep-rooted understanding of its markets, a commitment to quality, and a culture that values experience and sustained growth.

Team Structure:

• The Colour Design Consultant will operate within a team structure, likely reporting to a Colour Design Manager, fostering a "one PPG approach."

• This team is responsible for colour and design support across the UK & Ireland region.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis: Utilizes digital platforms and customer data (e.g., via ClientLink) to inform colour strategies and track business activity.

• Workflow Planning: Manages client requests and design projects through defined processes, aiming for efficiency and timely delivery.

• Automation & Efficiency: Leverages CAD and digital tools to streamline design services and enhance productivity.

Company Website: https://www.ppg.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's "PPG Way 2030" values (customer champions, purpose and speed, excellent operators, compete to win, PPG proud) provide insight into expected behaviours and operational focus, emphasizing customer centricity, agility, accountability, and a drive for results.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-level, requiring specialized skills and a degree of autonomy in client interactions and project execution. It's a contributor role with a focus on delivering specific design and colour support functions that directly impact sales and customer satisfaction.

Reporting Structure: The consultant will report to a Colour Design Manager, indicating a clear line of management and a structured support system. This manager will likely oversee team performance, provide strategic guidance, and facilitate access to resources.

Operations Impact: The Colour Design Consultant's impact is measured through their ability to enhance PPG's credibility in the specification market, drive the adoption of key colour palettes, influence customer purchasing decisions, and ultimately contribute to increased sales and market share within their designated sectors. Success is linked to client satisfaction, project conversion rates, and effective utilization of design tools.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific market sectors or advanced colour psychology applications.

• Project Leadership: Take ownership of larger or more complex design projects.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain experience working with different PPG business units (e.g., industrial, automotive coatings) through project collaboration.

• Skill Development: Further training in advanced design software, trend forecasting, or business development techniques.

• Potential for further contract extensions or transition to permanent roles within PPG, depending on business needs and individual performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for skill development within a specialized area of GTM support, with potential for broader exposure within a large organization. Growth is likely tied to demonstrating impact in client engagement and sales enablement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a hybrid role, meaning the consultant will spend a portion of their working week at the Birstall Plant office and the remainder working remotely. This setup is designed to balance the need for in-person collaboration, access to company resources, and the flexibility of remote work.

Office Location(s): Birstall Plant, United Kingdom. This site likely houses teams involved in product development, sales support, and operations, providing a central hub for client interactions and team meetings.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model and team structure encourage interaction with colleagues in design, sales, and marketing, fostering idea exchange and a unified approach.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to PPG's suite of design software (Adobe Creative Suite), CAD tools, digital platforms, and the ClientLink CRM system will be essential for daily tasks.

• Team Interaction: Regular team meetings and cross-functional project discussions will be part of the work routine, facilitating knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: A standard 38-hour work week, typically Monday to Friday. The hybrid nature allows for some flexibility in managing the work schedule, provided project deadlines and client needs are met. This schedule accommodates the need for both focused individual work and collaborative team engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature is a key aspect of the work environment, requiring individuals to be adept at managing their time and communication across different work settings. The Birstall Plant location suggests a functional industrial or office space that supports PPG's operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of applications and resumes to assess alignment with required skills and experience, potentially using AI tools for efficiency.

• First Interview: Likely a virtual or in-person discussion with the hiring manager or a senior team member to evaluate technical skills, design aptitude, and cultural fit. Expect questions on colour theory, software proficiency, and client interaction scenarios.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, showcasing key projects, design process, and outcomes. Be prepared to discuss your role, challenges, and the impact of your work.

• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a practical design exercise or case study related to colour selection for a specific market sector, followed by a discussion on problem-solving and strategic thinking.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate a selection of 3-5 projects that best demonstrate your colour design skills, project management capabilities, and experience with digital tools.

• For each project, clearly articulate the brief, your design process, the tools used (mentioning Adobe Photoshop, CAD, etc.), the challenges faced, and the final outcome or impact.

• Quantify results where possible (e.g., "increased customer engagement by X%," "supported sales in securing Y projects").

• Be ready to discuss how your design approach aligns with PPG's "Voice of Colour" and its market objectives.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with PPG's product range and target market sectors (Education, Social Housing, Healthcare, Hospitality).

• Practice articulating colour trends and their application in different architectural or interior design contexts.

• Prepare to discuss how you would approach a colour consultation for a client with specific aesthetic and functional requirements.

• Review the "PPG Way 2030" values and be ready to discuss how your work ethic and approach align with them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and potential design exercises indicates a strong focus on practical application and visual communication skills, alongside operational project management. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just creativity but also the ability to execute and deliver within a business context.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Photoshop: Essential for image editing, creating visual mock-ups, and developing digital design assets. Proficiency is a key requirement.

• CAD Software: Used for creating architectural renderings and visualisations; specific software may vary but familiarity with industry standards is expected.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • PowerPoint: For creating presentations and reports for clients and internal stakeholders.
  • Outlook: For professional communication, scheduling, and managing client interactions.

• ClientLink Platform: A proprietary CRM or business management tool for driving end-to-end business activity, tracking leads, and managing customer data.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• ClientLink: This platform is central to managing client relationships and business activities, suggesting a need for strong CRM skills and data management.

• Digital Platforms: General familiarity with web-based applications and digital tools for design and communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Office, along with the proprietary ClientLink platform, highlights the technical requirements. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate proficiency in these tools, particularly in how they are used to support sales and client engagement processes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Champions: Actively listen to customer needs, understand their style preferences, and provide solutions that enhance their projects and build loyalty.

• Act with Purpose and Speed: Respond promptly to client requests, manage projects efficiently, and leverage data to make informed colour decisions, staying ahead of market trends.

• Excellent Operators: Take ownership of colour design tasks, deliver high-quality renderings and advice, and meticulously manage data within ClientLink to ensure accuracy and transparency.

• Compete to Win: Proactively identify opportunities to influence specifications, showcase PPG's colour expertise, and contribute to disrupting competitor market share.

• PPG Proud: Maintain professional integrity, value diverse perspectives in colour application, and take pride in contributing to PPG's reputation for quality and innovation in colour.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Work closely with sales, marketing, and technical teams to ensure colour advice is aligned with product offerings and sales strategies.

• Process Review: Contribute to the continuous improvement of design services and client support processes, sharing insights on efficiency and effectiveness.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively share insights on colour trends, design applications, and customer feedback with the wider team to foster a collective understanding and enhance PPG's market approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "PPG Way 2030" values are deeply embedded in the company's operational ethos. Candidates should demonstrate how their work style and decision-making align with these core principles, particularly in customer interaction and driving business results through design.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Constraints: Effectively translating diverse customer preferences and architectural styles into approved colour palettes while adhering to PPG's brand guidelines and product limitations.

• Driving Digital Adoption: Encouraging customers and internal teams to fully leverage digital platforms and tools for colour selection and visualization, overcoming potential resistance to new technologies.

• Market Disruption: Competing against established or emerging competitor colour offerings and strategies by consistently providing superior design support and innovative colour solutions.

• Rapid Trend Cycles: Staying abreast of fast-evolving colour trends and design aesthetics across multiple market sectors and translating these into relevant, actionable advice for customers.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Colour Theory & Psychology: Deepen understanding of how colour impacts perception and behaviour, enhancing consulting capabilities.

• New Design Software & Technologies: Training on cutting-edge digital design tools and visualisation techniques to improve service offerings.

• Specification Market Dynamics: Gaining in-depth knowledge of the specification process within construction and design industries.

• Cross-Business Unit Exposure: Opportunities to collaborate on projects for different PPG market segments, broadening industry experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a dynamic challenge where creative problem-solving meets operational execution. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening specialized expertise and expanding influence within the GTM function.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance a client's unconventional colour request with industry standards or product limitations. How did you resolve this?" (Assesses problem-solving, negotiation, and client management skills).

• "How would you leverage PPG's 'Voice of Colour' palette to influence a specifier in the healthcare sector to choose our products over a competitor's?" (Tests strategic thinking, brand advocacy, and market understanding).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on the 'PPG Way 2030' values, which do you feel most aligns with your work style, and can you provide an example?" (Assesses cultural fit and self-awareness).

• "How do you stay updated on colour trends and design innovations within the architecture and construction industries?" (Gauges proactivity and industry engagement).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure your presentation logically: Introduction of PPG and the role, overview of your portfolio, detailed walkthrough of 2-3 key projects, and a concluding statement on your suitability.

• For each project, clearly define the objective, your role, the challenges, your design process (including tools and techniques), and the measurable outcomes or impact.

• Be prepared to discuss not just the aesthetic choices but also the operational aspects: how you managed time, client communication, and data logging (e.g., ClientLink).

• Visually engaging slides with high-quality images of your work are crucial. Ensure all text is legible and concise.

• Practice your delivery to ensure it's confident, articulate, and within the allotted time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions will likely probe the candidate's ability to apply design principles within a commercial context, manage projects efficiently, and contribute to PPG's strategic GTM objectives. The portfolio presentation is a critical component for demonstrating practical skills and operational thinking.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Colour Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link, ensuring all sections are completed accurately.

• Tailor your CV: Highlight experiences related to colour design, digital rendering, client consultation, and project management. Use keywords from the job description such as "Colour Design," "Adobe Photoshop," "CAD," "ClientLink," and "Specification Market."

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 relevant projects. Focus on demonstrating your design process, technical skills with relevant software, and the impact of your colour solutions. Be ready to present this during the interview process.

• Research PPG: Familiarize yourself with PPG's "Voice of Colour" palette, their key market sectors (Education, Social Housing, Healthcare, Hospitality), and the "PPG Way 2030" values to articulate your understanding and fit.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioural and situational questions by reviewing the suggested interview preparation section, focusing on demonstrating how you embody PPG's values and possess the required operational and design skills.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.