Global CAD Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Global CAD Design Manager

Company: STOW Group

Location: Spiere-Helkijn, Vlaanderen, Belgium

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations Management

Date Posted: 2026-06-11

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and develop the global CAD function, establishing it as the technical and strategic reference point for all drawing production and standardization efforts.

• Drive the strategic vision for CAD, focusing on the transition towards 3D and parametric design, increased automation, and reduction of manual CAD work.

• Manage and allocate global CAD resources effectively to align with project priorities, workload, and ensure consistent delivery quality across all teams.

• Act as a key change agent, championing digitalization and continuous improvement within CAD processes, fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency.

• Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams including engineering, project management, sales, and system integration to ensure seamless project execution and support.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a senior management level, requiring a blend of strategic vision and hands-on technical expertise. The emphasis on "Global CAD leadership," "Technical leadership & vision," and "Drawing strategy & process ownership" indicates a critical function that underpins the company's product development and delivery lifecycle. The explicit mention of transitioning to 3D/parametric design and automation points to a forward-thinking approach to CAD operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Global CAD Leadership: Structure and lead the global CAD organization, ensuring efficient resource allocation, high delivery quality, and consistency across all CAD teams and designers.

• Technical Vision & Strategy: Define and own the long-term CAD roadmap, focusing on the strategic shift towards 3D and parametric design, increased automation, and minimizing repetitive manual CAD tasks.

• Process Ownership & Governance: Establish and govern the three core CAD pillars: Commercial drawings, Technical/engineering drawings, and Assembly/installation drawings, ensuring clarity of purpose, ownership, and adherence to quality standards.

• Digitalization & Automation: Drive the digitalization of CAD processes and champion automation initiatives to enhance efficiency and reduce manual effort across drawing production.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Serve as the primary interface between CAD and other key departments such as engineering, project management, sales, and system integration, ensuring CAD outputs effectively support project execution and installation teams.

• Change Management: Act as a change agent, translating the strategic vision for CAD into concrete implementations and driving adoption of new tools and workflows across the group.

• Team Development: Coach and support CAD team leaders and designers, fostering their professional growth and ensuring they are equipped to meet evolving technical demands and business priorities.

• QSHE Standards Adherence: Ensure all CAD activities and outputs fully comply with Quality, Safety, Health, and Environment (QSHE) standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on people management (leading teams, coaching) and technical/process leadership (roadmap, automation, 3D transition). The emphasis on "drawing strategy & process ownership" and "collaboration & stakeholder management" underscores the importance of this role in bridging technical design with broader business objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Industrial, or related field), or a strong technical diploma with equivalent extensive experience, is typically expected for a Global Manager role.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10+ years of experience in CAD engineering, with a significant portion within an industrial or project-based manufacturing environment.

• Proven track record of leadership experience, specifically managing CAD teams or competence centers. Required Skills:

• Deep expertise in AutoCAD (advanced versions) is essential.

• Strong understanding and practical experience with 3D environments and parametric design principles.

• Robust process mindset with a demonstrated passion for automation and improving operational efficiency.

• Ability to operate effectively at both strategic and hands-on levels, capable of developing high-level roadmaps and diving into detailed technical aspects.

• Excellent English language proficiency (written and spoken).

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

• Proven ability in stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration. Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in additional languages such as Dutch, Polish, or Portuguese.

• Experience with specific CAD software beyond AutoCAD, if relevant to the company's broader engineering stack.

• Familiarity with QSHE standards and their application in design and manufacturing.

• Experience in implementing digitalization initiatives within engineering departments.

• Knowledge of system integration principles related to CAD data flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" years of experience and the requirement for both strategic and hands-on capabilities suggest this role is for a seasoned professional. The emphasis on AutoCAD, 3D, and parametric design, combined with process automation, points to a need for skills that can drive modern design workflows.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Examples of successful CAD team leadership or competence center management, showcasing organizational structure, resource allocation strategies, and team performance metrics.

• Case studies demonstrating the implementation of CAD process improvements, highlighting the problem, the implemented solution, and quantifiable results (e.g., reduced cycle time, improved accuracy, cost savings).

• Documentation or examples of developed CAD roadmaps, detailing vision, strategic initiatives (e.g., 3D transition, automation), and implementation plans.

• Demonstrations of how CAD outputs (commercial, technical, assembly drawings) were structured, governed, and ensured to meet quality standards and facilitate smooth handover between departments.

• Evidence of driving digitalization and automation within CAD workflows, potentially including examples of custom scripts, macros, or integrated software solutions. Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in defining and documenting CAD workflows, from initial concept to final output, emphasizing clarity, efficiency, and adherence to standards.

• Provide examples of process optimization projects, detailing how manual or repetitive tasks were identified and addressed through automation or improved methodologies.

• Demonstrate an understanding of how to measure and report on the performance of CAD processes, including key metrics related to efficiency, accuracy, and stakeholder satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this senior role, a portfolio should demonstrate not just technical CAD skills but also strategic thinking, leadership in process improvement, and the ability to manage complex, global operations. The focus should be on impact and measurable results in driving efficiency and innovation.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the location (Belgium), experience level (10+ years), and the seniority of a Global Manager role within an international industrial group, a competitive salary range is estimated between €80,000 - €120,000 gross per year. This range can vary based on specific experience, negotiation, and the exact scope of responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Company Car: A significant benefit, indicating mobility and a senior role.

• Net Allowances: Additional financial support.

• Meal Vouchers: For daily expenses.

• Group Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for employees and potentially dependents.

• Hospital Insurance: Covering medical expenses.

• CAO 90 Bonus: A legal bonus system in Belgium, often tied to company performance.

• Phone & Laptop: Essential tools for a global role.

• Daily Freshly Cooked Meals: Provided in the company's on-site restaurant ("re**stow</strong>rant"), a unique perk enhancing employee well-being.

• 1 day of remote work per week: Offering flexibility within a hybrid work model.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. The hybrid arrangement allows for 1 day of remote work, with 4 days expected in the office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for senior engineering management roles in Belgium, factoring in the industrial sector and international scope. The benefits package is substantial, with unique offerings like the company car and on-site meals, suggesting a strong commitment to employee well-being and a competitive total compensation offering.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The STOW Group operates in the industrial sector, specifically focusing on innovative storage solutions driven by efficient and automated production processes. They cater to international clients facing logistical challenges.

Company Size: STOW Group is described as a "dynamic global company," indicating a significant international presence and workforce. While exact numbers aren't provided, the scope of "Global CAD Design Manager" suggests a substantial organization with multiple production sites and a sizable engineering or design department.

Founded: The exact founding date is not specified, but the company is presented as an established market leader with a history of innovation.

Team Structure:

• The CAD organization is to be structured at a "global level," implying a centralized or federated model with potential for regional team leaders reporting up.

• Collaboration is highlighted as a key aspect, with the manager serving as an interface between Sales, Engineering, Project Management, and System Integration teams.

• The role requires coaching and supporting CAD team leaders and designers, indicating a direct or indirect management of a substantial team. Methodology:

• Emphasis on "efficient and automated production processes."

• Focus on "innovative storage solutions."

• Commitment to "QSHE standards" (Quality, Safety, Health, and Environment).

• Driving "digitalisation and automation" within CAD processes.

• Encouraging an "international mindset" and cross-cultural collaboration.

Company Website: [STOW Group Website - Assuming it's stow-group.com based on domain_derived]

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to value innovation, efficiency, and global collaboration. The description of "Rack Stars" suggests a team-oriented and passionate workforce. The emphasis on QSHE and structured environments indicates a focus on operational excellence and safety.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level Global Management position. It sits at the intersection of technical engineering and operational process management, with significant strategic influence over a critical function within the company's product lifecycle. The role is responsible for setting the technical direction and operational standards for CAD across the entire group.

Reporting Structure: The Global CAD Design Manager will likely report into a senior engineering executive, such as the VP of Engineering, Chief Technology Officer (CTO), or Head of Global Operations. They will manage global CAD team leaders and designers.

Operations Impact: The CAD function is fundamental to STOW Group's ability to design, produce, and deliver innovative storage solutions. This role directly impacts:

• Product Development Speed: By driving automation and 3D/parametric design, the manager can significantly reduce design cycle times.

• Product Quality & Cost: Standardized, efficient, and accurate drawings are crucial for manufacturing quality and cost control.

• Customer Satisfaction: Clear assembly and installation drawings directly impact the ease and success of product deployment, leading to better customer experiences.

• Innovation Adoption: By leading the transition to new technologies, the manager enables the company to leverage cutting-edge design tools and methodologies.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to expand oversight to other design-related functions or take on broader operational responsibilities within engineering.

• Strategic Influence: Opportunity to shape the future of design technology and processes for a global industrial leader.

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced CAD technologies, automation, and digital transformation within manufacturing.

• International Exposure: Further develop skills in managing diverse, global teams and navigating international business practices.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor and develop the next generation of CAD professionals and leaders within the STOW Group.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant potential for impact and growth, serving as a critical leadership position within a global industrial company. The focus on strategic transformation (3D, automation) provides a clear path for career advancement and professional development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at a physical office location in Spiere-Helkijn, Belgium, with a hybrid work arrangement allowing for 1 day of remote work per week. This suggests a structured office environment that values in-person collaboration but also offers some flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary office is located at Industriepark 6 B, 8587 Spiere-Helkijn, Belgium. This is an industrial park, implying a setting conducive to manufacturing and engineering operations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The need for cross-functional collaboration with engineering, sales, and project teams suggests an environment where teamwork and communication are prioritized.

• Technology Access: As a Global CAD Design Manager, access to advanced CAD software, hardware, and potentially IT support for system integration will be crucial.

• Team Interaction: The role involves leading, coaching, and supporting CAD teams, indicating regular interaction with direct reports and team leaders. The presence of an on-site "re**stow</strong>rant" suggests a company that invests in employee amenities and fosters a sense of community.Work Schedule: A standard full-time work schedule (approx. 40 hours/week) is expected, with the hybrid model offering 4 days in the office and 1 day remote. This provides a balance for focused work and in-person collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The environment is likely a mix of focused, individual work (especially for CAD tasks) and collaborative team-based activities. The hybrid model indicates a modern approach to work-life balance within a structured industrial setting.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and cover letter, likely focusing on leadership experience, AutoCAD expertise, and process automation background.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion on CAD methodologies, 3D/parametric design, automation strategies, and QSHE standards. This may involve technical challenges or case studies related to process improvement.

• Managerial/Leadership Interview: Assessment of leadership style, team management capabilities, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking.

• Stakeholder/Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with key individuals from engineering, sales, or project management to assess collaboration and communication skills.

• Final Interview: With senior leadership (e.g., CTO, VP of Engineering) to discuss overall vision, strategic alignment, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio to clearly present your achievements. Use a consistent format for each project: Problem, Solution (focusing on your role and methodology), Results (quantifiable metrics like time saved, cost reduction, efficiency gains).

• Highlight Leadership & Strategy: Showcase examples of how you've led teams, implemented strategic roadmaps, and driven significant process changes (e.g., transition to 3D, automation initiatives).

• Demonstrate Technical Depth: Include examples that prove your advanced AutoCAD skills and understanding of 3D/parametric design. If possible, show examples of automation scripts or custom workflows.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work. For process improvements, show before-and-after scenarios.

• Tailor to STOW Group: Research STOW Group's products and market. Frame your experience in the context of their needs (e.g., how your automation experience can benefit their production of storage solutions).

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Optimization Challenge: Be prepared to analyze a hypothetical CAD process bottleneck and propose solutions involving automation, 3D modeling, or workflow redesign. Focus on practical, implementable steps.

• Strategic Vision Question: Expect questions about how you would approach the transition to 3D/parametric design and automation at a global level within STOW Group. Outline a phased approach with clear objectives and key performance indicators (KPIs).

• Team Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would manage a global, potentially distributed, CAD team, handle performance issues, and foster a collaborative culture.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be rigorous, assessing both technical acumen and leadership potential. A well-curated portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical experience and impact.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• AutoCAD: As explicitly stated, advanced proficiency is required. This is the core drafting and design tool.

• 3D Modeling Software: Essential for the transition to 3D and parametric design. This could include AutoCAD's 3D capabilities, or potentially other industry-standard software like SolidWorks, Inventor, CATIA, or similar, depending on STOW Group's specific engineering stack.

• Parametric Design Tools: Software or features that allow for design based on parameters, enabling easier modification and optimization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• CAD Data Management Systems: Tools for organizing, tracking, and managing CAD files and revisions.

• Project Management Software: For tracking project timelines, resource allocation (including CAD resources), and dependencies. Examples include Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar.

• Reporting & Dashboarding Tools: Potentially tools that integrate with CAD data or project management systems to extract KPIs on design cycle times, output quality, and team performance.

CRM & Automation:

• PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) Systems: Likely integrated or to-be-integrated with CAD data for managing product information throughout its lifecycle.

• Automation Scripting/Programming: Skills in languages like LISP (for AutoCAD), Python, or VBA could be highly valuable for automating repetitive tasks.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Potentially broader enterprise automation solutions if implemented for engineering processes.

• ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) Systems: Understanding how CAD data integrates with ERP for manufacturing and supply chain operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack will heavily revolve around CAD and engineering design software. The emphasis on automation and digitalization suggests a need for skills in scripting, potentially PLM systems, and integrating design data with broader business systems.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Forward-Thinking: A drive to explore and implement new technologies like 3D modeling and automation to stay ahead.

• Efficiency & Optimization: A commitment to streamlining processes, reducing waste, and maximizing output through smart methods.

• Quality & Precision: Upholding high standards in all design outputs to ensure product integrity and customer satisfaction.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where cross-functional teams work together seamlessly.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of always looking for ways to enhance processes, tools, and team performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Encouraging strong partnerships between CAD, engineering, sales, and project management to ensure alignment from concept to installation.

• Open Communication: Promoting clear and transparent communication channels for feedback, issue resolution, and knowledge sharing.

• Process-Oriented: A focus on clearly defined processes and workflows to ensure predictable outcomes and facilitate smooth operations.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing data from CAD outputs and project metrics to inform strategic decisions and identify areas for improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely values a proactive, results-oriented approach. Employees are expected to be technically proficient, collaborative, and committed to continuous improvement within a structured global framework.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Standardization: Implementing consistent CAD standards, processes, and tool usage across different regions and potentially diverse team skill sets.

• Transition to 3D/Parametric Design: Managing the change from 2D to advanced 3D and parametric modeling, which requires training, adaptation, and potential resistance to change from team members accustomed to older methods.

• Driving Automation: Identifying suitable tasks for automation and developing reliable, scalable automated solutions requires significant technical expertise and project management.

• Resource Allocation: Balancing competing project demands and ensuring optimal allocation of CAD resources across the global organization.

• Integrating Disparate Systems: Ensuring seamless data flow and integration between CAD systems and other enterprise software (ERP, PLM, project management).

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced CAD & Design Technologies: Deepen expertise in cutting-edge 3D modeling, simulation, and potentially generative design tools.

• Digital Transformation Leadership: Gain experience in leading large-scale digital transformation initiatives within an industrial engineering context.

• Global Operations Management: Enhance skills in managing international teams, understanding diverse business cultures, and optimizing global workflows.

• Strategic Process Engineering: Develop advanced capabilities in designing, implementing, and optimizing complex engineering processes for a global enterprise.

• Leadership Development: Formal training and practical experience in executive leadership, strategic planning, and change management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges but also offers substantial opportunities for professional growth and making a lasting impact on the company's technological and operational capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach standardizing CAD processes and tools across STOW Group's global operations, considering potential regional differences and existing workflows?"

  • Preparation: Focus on a phased approach: assessment, pilot programs, training, phased rollout, and continuous monitoring. Emphasize communication and stakeholder buy-in.

• "Describe your strategy for leading the transition from 2D to 3D and parametric design. What are the key technological, people, and process considerations?"

  • Preparation: Outline a plan that includes technology evaluation, pilot projects, comprehensive training programs, change management strategies, and metrics for success.

• "What are your methods for identifying and implementing automation opportunities within a CAD environment? Can you provide a specific example from your past experience?"

  • Preparation: Discuss systematic approaches to identifying repetitive tasks, evaluating ROI for automation, potential tools/scripting languages, and change management for adoption.

• "How do you ensure effective collaboration and communication between the global CAD team and other departments like Sales, Engineering, and Project Management?"

  • Preparation: Highlight strategies like regular cross-functional meetings, shared dashboards, clear documentation protocols, and building strong working relationships.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of STOW Group, what do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges for our CAD function in the next 3-5 years?"

  • Preparation: Research STOW Group's market, products, and any public statements on technology or strategy. Connect their business goals to CAD's role.

• "How do you foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within a technical team, especially when dealing with established processes?"

  • Preparation: Discuss creating safe spaces for ideas, encouraging experimentation, celebrating successes, and learning from failures.

• "How do you measure the success and impact of a global CAD function on the overall business objectives of a company like STOW Group?"

  • Preparation: Focus on KPIs related to design cycle time, accuracy, cost savings, project delivery support, and innovation adoption.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Start with a high-level overview of your leadership philosophy and key achievements.

• Case Studies: For each significant project:

  • Context: Briefly describe the company/situation.
  • Challenge: Clearly state the problem or opportunity.
  • Your Role & Solution: Detail your strategic approach, the specific actions you took (especially regarding leadership, process, and technology), and the tools/methodologies used.
  • Results: Quantify the impact (e.g., "Reduced design cycle time by 25%", "Achieved 99.8% accuracy in assembly drawings", "Enabled a 15% increase in project throughput").

• Roadmap Example: If possible, present a sample strategic roadmap for CAD development.

• Visuals: Use clear diagrams, screenshots, or flowcharts where appropriate to illustrate processes and solutions.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present key highlights within a limited timeframe, with more detail available upon request.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, leadership impact, and a deep understanding of how CAD operations drive business value. The portfolio is your primary tool for providing concrete evidence.

📌 Application Steps

To