Design Manager (all genders) – Luxury Retail

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (all genders) – Luxury Retail

Company: LIGANOVA GmbH

Location: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Job Type: Festanstellung (Full-time)

Category: Operations - Retail Operations / Visual Merchandising

Date Posted: September 07, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the end-to-end process of translating creative briefs into tangible, high-aesthetic retail campaigns within the luxury sector.

• Manage the technical execution of window campaigns, ensuring seamless collaboration between creative, prototyping, production, and client-facing teams.

• Define and optimize production processes, including material selection, technical drawing creation, and documentation, while adhering to budget and timeline constraints.

• Conduct quality assurance at key production and set-up stages, provide on-site installation guidance, and deliver compelling client presentations.

• Ensure the successful execution of window installations by inspecting locations, assessing technical feasibility, and maintaining close client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role sits at the intersection of creative design and operational execution within the luxury retail space. While the title is "Design Manager," the core responsibilities heavily emphasize project management, production oversight, technical feasibility, and client communication, aligning it closely with a specialized form of Retail Operations or Visual Merchandising Operations, rather than pure creative design. The focus on translating briefs into "sustainable retail campaigns" and "window campaigns" suggests a need for process-driven thinking and execution.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Campaign Transition & Execution: Collaborate with Project Management to translate creative briefing documents into executable retail campaigns for the luxury sector, focusing on technical feasibility and aesthetic integrity.

• Technical Production Oversight: Lead the technical implementation of window campaigns, ensuring high aesthetic standards and managing interdisciplinary communication with prototyping, production, and client stakeholders.

• Process Definition & Documentation: Define internal production processes, manage material selection, and create detailed technical drawings and production documentation, ensuring strict adherence to budget and timeline parameters.

• Quality Assurance & Client Presentations: Oversee Quality Gates during production and set-up phases, provide hands-on guidance during installations, and develop and deliver persuasive presentations for prototyping, visual merchandising, and pre-assembly stages to clients.

• On-site Management & Client Liaison: Conduct site inspections, assess technical site conditions, supervise window installations, and maintain continuous, close communication with clients throughout the process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong need for process management, technical documentation, and stakeholder coordination, which are core to operations roles. The emphasis on "sustainable retail campaigns" and "Green Transformation" also points to an operations focus on efficiency and environmentally conscious practices.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in a technical or design-related field.

Experience: Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in 3D design, with a preference for experience in prototyping and production.

Required Skills:

• 3D Design & Visualization: Proficiency in at least one 3D software and one visualization program.

• Technical Documentation: Ability to create technical drawings and production-ready documentation.

• Creative Brief Interpretation: Experience in understanding and translating creative briefs, particularly regarding technical specifications, composition, colors, materials, finishes, and feasibility.

• Software Proficiency: Competency in Adobe Creative Suite and Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel).

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills in both English and German.

• Client Engagement: Proven ability to conduct client presentations and manage client relationships.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Understanding of project management principles to manage timelines and budgets effectively.

• On-site Installation Support: Willingness and ability to support on-site installations.

Preferred Skills:

• Prototyping & Production Experience: Direct experience in the prototyping and production phases of retail displays or campaigns.

• Visual Merchandising Acumen: Understanding of visual merchandising principles and their application in luxury retail.

• Material Science Knowledge: Familiarity with various materials and their suitability for retail applications.

• Sustainability Practices: Knowledge of sustainable design and production methodologies.

• Quality Control Processes: Experience in implementing and managing quality gates within a production environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements blend technical design skills with practical production and project management capabilities, typical for roles that bridge creative intent with operational reality. The emphasis on technical drawings, production processes, and quality gates clearly points to an operations-centric approach to design execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• 3D Design Showcase: Examples of 3D models, renderings, and technical drawings demonstrating proficiency in relevant software.

• Production Process Documentation: Samples of production documents, material specifications, or process outlines for past projects.

• Campaign Execution Case Studies: Visuals and descriptions of past retail campaigns or installations managed, highlighting the transition from brief to completion.

• Client Presentation Samples: Examples of client presentations, showcasing communication and persuasive skills for design concepts.

• Sustainability Integration: Projects demonstrating an understanding or application of sustainable practices in design or production.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Examples illustrating how creative briefs were systematically translated into actionable production plans.

• Production Management: Documentation showing how production processes were defined, managed, and optimized for efficiency and quality.

• Quality Assurance: Evidence of how quality control measures were implemented and monitored throughout the production lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio is crucial to demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage complex projects from concept to execution. It should emphasize technical execution, process management, and problem-solving capabilities rather than purely aesthetic concepts. Highlighting how sustainability was integrated into processes would be a significant advantage.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 2-5 years of experience in Stuttgart, Germany, the estimated annual salary range would be €48,000 - €65,000. This estimate considers the luxury retail sector, the specific responsibilities, and the cost of living in Stuttgart.

Benefits:

• Diversity & Inclusion: A company culture that actively celebrates and promotes diversity and inclusion, fostering an environment where unique contributions are valued.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Participation in and contribution to sustainability efforts, including innovative solutions and green transformation initiatives for clients and internal operations.

• International Networking: Opportunities for cross-unit networking and regular exchange with colleagues across LIGANOVA offices in Stuttgart, Berlin, and Amsterdam.

• Professional Development: Encouragement and support for personal and professional growth, aligned with the company's mission to "Create the best version of yourself."

• Creative Environment: Working within a dynamic and innovative environment focused on high-aesthetic campaigns and cutting-edge retail experiences.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, typical for a full-time position in Germany. Flexibility may be expected given the nature of on-site installations and client needs, but standard office hours are the baseline.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on current market data for similar roles in Germany, considering the specified experience level and industry. Benefits are derived from the "WHAT TO EXPECT" section and general industry standards for companies emphasizing culture and sustainability.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Retail / Experiential Marketing. LIGANOVA specializes in creating unique brand experiences and campaigns for high-end clients, bridging the gap between physical and digital retail spaces.

Company Size: LIGANOVA is a growing company with multiple international offices, suggesting a dynamic environment that balances established processes with an agile startup mentality. The exact size within the "medium-sized" range (50-250 employees) would foster close collaboration.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly provided, the company's growth to multiple international locations implies a history of successful operations and expansion, indicative of a stable yet evolving business.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a team focused on Retail Campaigns, likely collaborating closely with Project Management, Creative, Prototyping, and Production departments.

• Reporting is likely to a Head of Design, Operations, or a Senior Project Manager, with direct interaction with various client account teams.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving regular communication with individuals from creative conception through to on-site installation teams. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on translating client needs and market trends into measurable campaign success, though specific data analysis tools are not detailed here.

• Process Optimization: A clear focus on defining and refining production processes for efficiency, quality, and sustainability.

• Agile Execution: The nature of retail campaigns and client demands suggests an agile approach to project execution, requiring adaptability and quick problem-solving.

Company Website: https://liganova.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes creativity, innovation, and sustainability within the luxury sector. For an operations professional, this means understanding the high standards of luxury while driving efficient and environmentally conscious processes. The international presence suggests a need for cross-cultural communication skills.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is mid-level, requiring 2-3 years of experience. It's a pivotal role for individuals looking to deepen their expertise in managing the operational aspects of high-profile design projects within the luxury retail space. The responsibilities indicate a move from pure design execution to managing the entire lifecycle of a campaign's physical manifestation.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a senior role within the Design, Project Management, or Operations department. They will work closely with project managers and lead specific campaign executions, acting as a key liaison between creative teams and production/installation crews.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role directly impacts client satisfaction and brand perception through the flawless execution of visually stunning and technically sound retail campaigns. Success in this role contributes to client retention, brand loyalty, and the overall success of LIGANOVA's service offerings in the competitive luxury market. Their work ensures that creative visions are realized efficiently and within scope, directly affecting profitability and operational efficiency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in luxury retail campaign production, sustainable design implementation, or specific prototyping technologies.

• Leadership: Progress into Senior Design Manager, Project Lead, or Operations Management roles, overseeing larger projects or teams.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into roles focused on client management, strategic operations, or business development within the experiential marketing sector.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning in new design technologies, sustainable materials, and advanced production techniques relevant to the luxury retail industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a solid foundation in operations within a niche, high-value industry. Growth potential lies in mastering the complexities of luxury retail operations and potentially moving into leadership or specialized operational roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the LIGANOVA HQ in Stuttgart, Germany. The description implies an office environment that fosters collaboration and innovation, with potential for some on-site visits to production facilities or client locations.

Office Location(s): Herdweg 59, 70174 Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany. This is a central location within Stuttgart, likely accessible via public transport.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Space: The emphasis on interdisciplinary exchange and cross-unit networking suggests an open and collaborative workspace designed to facilitate communication between creative, technical, and project teams.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software (3D, Adobe Creative Suite), visualization tools, and standard office productivity suites (MS Office). The company's focus on innovation may mean access to cutting-edge design and prototyping technologies.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with project managers, prototypers, production specialists, and client representatives, requiring strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with an estimated 40 working hours per week. While standard office hours are expected, the nature of campaign launches and on-site installations may require some flexibility and occasional overtime, particularly during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is paramount. While the primary work location is Stuttgart, the responsibilities clearly indicate a need for travel to client sites or installation locations, which is typical for operational roles in experiential marketing and retail.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess alignment with required skills and experience.

• Technical/Creative Interview: Discussion focusing on 3D design capabilities, understanding of production processes, and interpretation of creative briefs. Candidates may be asked to walk through specific portfolio pieces.

• Operational/Project Management Interview: Assessment of project management skills, budget adherence, timeline management, and experience with quality control and on-site installations. Case study questions related to problem-solving in production or client management may be presented.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion to evaluate alignment with LIGANOVA's values, particularly regarding diversity, sustainability, innovation, and teamwork. Interaction with team members or hiring manager.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic alignment and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate the initial brief, your role, the design and production process you followed, challenges encountered, and how you overcame them.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Include detailed technical drawings, material specifications, and examples of 3D models/renderings that demonstrate your software proficiency.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your campaigns, such as budget adherence, timeline completion, or client feedback.

• Emphasize Collaboration: Show examples of how you collaborated with different teams (creative, production, client) and managed stakeholders effectively.

• Address Sustainability: If applicable, present projects where sustainability was a key consideration and explain your approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared for questions asking how you would handle specific situations, such as a production delay, a client design revision request, or a technical issue during installation.

• Process Improvement: Think about how you would optimize a given production process for efficiency, cost-effectiveness, or sustainability.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would troubleshoot technical challenges related to materials, construction, or site conditions.

• Client Presentation Practice: Rehearse presenting a design concept or project update, focusing on clarity, persuasion, and addressing potential client concerns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on practical application and problem-solving, reflecting the operational demands of the role. A strong portfolio that demonstrates not just design skill but also process management and execution capability will be critical.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Design Software: Proficiency required in at least one, such as Cinema 4D, Blender, SketchUp, or similar.

• Visualization Software: Experience with rendering engines or tools to create realistic visuals of designs.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for graphic design, image editing, and presentation materials (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Acrobat).

• Microsoft Office Suite: Critical for documentation, reporting, and presentations (PowerPoint, Excel, Word).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Excel: For budget tracking, material quantity calculations, and basic data analysis.

• PowerPoint: For client presentations and internal reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, experience with project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira, or company-specific systems) would be beneficial for tracking tasks, deadlines, and team progress.

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) could be advantageous for understanding client project history and communication, though not a primary requirement.

• Integration Tools: Not directly specified, but an understanding of how design specifications integrate with production workflows is key.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on core design and productivity software. For operations professionals, demonstrating an understanding of how these tools integrate into a larger project management and production workflow is key. Familiarity with project management software would be a strong plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, aesthetically superior retail campaigns that meet and exceed client expectations, with a focus on meticulous detail and flawless implementation.

• Innovation & Creativity: A drive to push creative boundaries while maintaining technical feasibility and exploring new materials, technologies, and sustainable solutions.

• Collaboration & Communication: A strong belief in teamwork, open dialogue, and cross-functional cooperation to achieve project goals, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned.

• Sustainability & Responsibility: A dedication to environmentally conscious practices in design and production, contributing to the company's "Green Mindset" and helping clients navigate their own green transformations.

• Client Focus: A dedication to understanding and fulfilling client needs, building strong relationships through reliable execution and compelling presentations.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Integration: A seamless working relationship between design, project management, prototyping, and production teams, characterized by mutual respect and shared problem-solving.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: An open culture for constructive feedback on designs, processes, and execution to continuously enhance quality and efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of insights, best practices, and lessons learned across projects and teams to foster collective growth and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values a blend of high-end creativity, operational rigor, and a forward-thinking approach to sustainability. Operations candidates should demonstrate an ability to thrive in such an environment, balancing artistic vision with practical, efficient execution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing High Aesthetics with Production Realities: Navigating the tension between ambitious creative briefs for luxury brands and the practical constraints of budgets, timelines, and manufacturing capabilities.

• Technical Feasibility in Diverse Locations: Ensuring designs can be executed and installed successfully across various physical sites, requiring on-the-ground assessment and adaptation.

• Integrating Sustainability: Effectively incorporating sustainable materials and processes without compromising the luxury aesthetic or significantly increasing costs.

• Managing Client Expectations: Communicating technical limitations and design choices clearly to demanding luxury clients while maintaining strong relationships.

• Keeping Pace with Innovation: Staying current with new materials, technologies, and production techniques relevant to experiential retail design.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design & Production Techniques: Access to training or exposure to cutting-edge 3D modeling, rendering, and fabrication technologies.

• Sustainability in Retail: Deeper involvement in the company's "Green Mindset" initiatives and client sustainability consulting.

• Luxury Brand Operations: Gaining in-depth knowledge of operational challenges and best practices specific to the luxury goods sector.

• Project Leadership: Opportunities to lead increasingly complex and high-profile retail campaigns, developing strategic planning and execution skills.

• Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Enhancing skills in working with international teams and clients across LIGANOVA's different office locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for roles at the intersection of creative and operations in specialized industries. Growth opportunities are well-defined, offering paths for specialization and leadership within the experiential marketing and luxury retail domain.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex creative brief into a technically feasible production plan. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and technical documentation skills.)

• "How would you approach defining the production process for a new window campaign, considering material selection, budget, and timeline constraints?" (Demonstrate your understanding of process definition and operational planning.)

• "Imagine a client presents a design concept that is technically difficult or over budget. How would you manage this situation, both in terms of communication and finding alternative solutions?" (Highlight your client management, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about LIGANOVA's focus on sustainability and innovation in the luxury retail space?" (Show your research and alignment with company values.)

• "How do you see your role contributing to the collaborative and diverse culture at LIGANOVA?" (Emphasize your teamwork and interpersonal skills.)

• "Describe your experience working with international teams or clients. How do you ensure effective communication?" (Address your cross-cultural communication abilities.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, craft a narrative that begins with the client's objective, details your role and the process, highlights challenges and solutions, and concludes with the successful outcome and impact.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your visual aids (renderings, drawings, photos) are high-quality and clearly illustrate your design intent and technical execution.

• Process Focus: Dedicate specific slides or sections to detailing the production process, material choices, and any quality control measures implemented.

• Quantifiable Results: Whenever possible, present metrics related to budget, timeline, or client satisfaction to demonstrate the tangible results of your work.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your most relevant projects efficiently, focusing on the aspects that best align with the job requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should emphasize practical examples, process-oriented thinking, and an understanding of the luxury retail context. Candidates should be ready to discuss their portfolio not just from a design perspective, but from an operational and project management standpoint.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-focused design management position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on goingbeyond.jobs.personio.com.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your ability to manage the technical execution of design concepts, your process documentation skills, and your experience with production and client presentations. Ensure these examples highlight your understanding of the luxury retail environment.

• Tailor Your Resume: Emphasize keywords related to 3D design, technical drawing, production management, project coordination, client communication, and any experience with luxury goods or retail campaigns. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., managed budgets up to X, delivered projects Y% on time).

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio, focusing on explaining your process, the operational challenges you faced, and how you ensured successful execution and client satisfaction. Be ready to articulate your understanding of LIGANOVA's values, particularly sustainability.

• Research LIGANOVA: Familiarize yourself with LIGANOVA's recent projects, client roster, and their stated values regarding innovation, sustainability, and luxury experiences. Understand how your operational skills can contribute to their success.

⚠️ 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.