Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager Company: Dyson Location: Malaysia - Global Development Campus, Johor Bahru Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Product Development & Engineering Management (GTM Operations Focus) Date Posted: 2026-01-05 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the development and execution of New Product Development (NPD) projects within the global EC category, ensuring alignment with Dyson's product innovation strategy.
• Act as the central point of contact and product leader for global project teams, driving critical decision-making and inspiring cross-functional collaboration.
• Manage project scope, deliverables, and timelines from concept through to the start of production (SOP), with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and cost control.
• Ensure rigorous adherence to Dyson's high standards for quality, safety, compliance, and performance throughout the product lifecycle.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Operations, Quality, Finance, and Commercial teams to navigate governance milestones and achieve ambitious financial targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the responsibilities heavily lean towards Product Development Management with a strong GTM (Go-to-Market) operations focus. This role requires managing the entire product lifecycle from a development and operational readiness perspective, ensuring successful integration into commercialization efforts. The emphasis on timelines, cost management, and cross-functional collaboration with operations and commercial teams highlights its strategic importance in bringing products to market efficiently.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary product leader for assigned NPD projects, demonstrating exemplary passion, energy, and commitment to drive project success.
• Regularly present and gain ratification for project direction and key decisions from Dyson's senior leadership team.
• Define and agree upon project deliverables for each build phase, establishing accountability and safeguarding timely project completion.
• Ensure all product development activities meet Dyson's exemplary standards for quality, safety, and compliance.
• Independently manage challenging project timelines, ensuring delivery without reliance on dedicated Category Project Management support.
• Foster seamless collaboration with Global Engineering & Operations, Quality, Finance, and Commercial teams to guide projects through regular governance checkpoints and milestones.
• Effectively manage both operational expenditure (OpEx) and product cost (CapEx) to deliver projects that meet aspirational financial targets.
• Contribute to defining the future of the EC category by leveraging technical understanding to assess and present potential new product opportunities to senior management.
• Establish and measure progress against Dyson and EC category blueprints and strategic goals.
• Develop and implement consistent working mechanisms and team infrastructure to foster efficient collaboration and goal achievement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on, product-centric leadership approach. The expectation to manage projects without dedicated project management support indicates a need for strong personal project management skills, alongside leadership and technical acumen. The focus on OpEx and product cost directly links this role to operational efficiency and financial accountability, crucial for GTM success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electro-Mechanical, or Mechatronics) is a minimum requirement.

Experience:

• A proven track record of more than 8 years in design and product development, successfully tackling complex technical challenges with a strong understanding of Design for Manufacturability (DFM) and Design for Assembly (DFA).

Required Skills:

• Product Development Leadership: Proven ability to lead complex NPD projects from concept to SOP within challenging timelines.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Influence: Demonstrated skill in collaborating with and influencing key project stakeholders across global teams, including RDD, Operations, Quality, Finance, and Commercial.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Excellent ability to manage and resolve complex technical challenges across multiple disciplines such as mechanical engineering, electronics, motors, software, and connectivity.
• Project & Risk Management: Competent in recording, managing, and prioritizing project risks, with the ability to identify and escalate decision-making points effectively.
• Cost Management & Value Engineering: Knowledge of product cost elements, with experience in Value Analysis and Value Engineering (VAVE) to meet financial targets.
• Manufacturing & Tooling Expertise: Detailed operational and manufacturing knowledge, including proven experience with various tooling and manufacturing techniques, to influence product development direction.
• Communication & Presentation: Proficient verbal communicator with outstanding presentation skills, capable of effectively addressing all levels of the business.
• Resilience & Adaptability: Strong perseverance, adaptability to change, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Core Engineering Processes: Deep knowledge of core engineering processes including Requirements Management, Engineering Change Management, Risk & Issue Management, impact analysis, concessions, and implementation strategies.
• Leadership Track Record: Strong, proven track record of successful project delivery and design leadership.
• Strategic Assessment: Ability to assess potential technical opportunities and present them for review with senior management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement (8+ years with a Bachelor's) and the breadth of technical and managerial skills suggest this role is mid-to-senior level. The emphasis on DFM/DFA, VAVE, and operational/manufacturing knowledge is critical for candidates aiming to demonstrate a GTM operations mindset.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase projects demonstrating end-to-end product development lifecycle management, from ideation through to successful market launch.
• Present case studies highlighting your ability to manage complex technical challenges and deliver innovative solutions within tight deadlines.
• Include examples of your contribution to DFM, DFA, and VAVE initiatives, illustrating how you optimized products for cost-effective manufacturing and assembly.
• Provide evidence of successful cross-functional team leadership and stakeholder management, demonstrating your ability to influence and align diverse groups towards common project goals.

Process Documentation:

• Highlight your experience with core engineering processes such as Requirements Management, Engineering Change Management, Risk & Issue Management, and implementation strategies.
• Demonstrate your approach to managing operational expenditure and product cost, illustrating how you achieved financial targets through strategic planning and execution.
• Include examples of how you have set goals, planned, managed, delivered, and measured progress against defined blueprints or strategic objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio showcasing tangible results from complex product development projects is essential. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their methodology for process optimization, risk mitigation, and cost control, demonstrating a strong understanding of the operational aspects of product development that impact GTM readiness.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: While specific salary ranges are not provided, for a Design Manager role with 10+ years of experience in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, Dyson typically offers a competitive package. Based on industry benchmarks and market analysis for similar roles in Malaysia, the estimated annual salary would likely range from MYR 120,000 to MYR 200,000, depending on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Transport Allowance
• Comprehensive Medical Care
• Insurance Coverage
• Professional growth opportunities
• Leadership development programs
• Dynamic workshops
• Access to the latest Dyson devices
• Relaxed dress code reflecting the engineering spirit

Working Hours:

• The role is specified as FULL_TIME, implying a standard 40-hour work week. However, given the nature of NPD projects and challenging timelines, occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet critical milestones. The on-site nature suggests a structured workday within the Dyson Global Development Campus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for engineering management roles in Malaysia and Dyson's reputation for competitive compensation. The benefits package highlights Dyson's commitment to employee well-being and professional development, which are attractive to operations professionals focused on long-term career growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Consumer Electronics, Home Appliances, Technology. Dyson is a global technology company renowned for its innovative approach to product design and engineering, particularly in areas like vacuum cleaners, air purifiers, fans, and hair care. Company Size: Dyson is a large, established global corporation with thousands of employees worldwide. This scale means access to significant resources, established processes, and a broad network of expertise, but also requires navigating larger organizational structures. Founded: Dyson was founded in 1991 by Sir James Dyson. Its history is marked by continuous innovation and a commitment to challenging conventional product designs.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager reports to the Head of Category, indicating a hierarchical structure within the RDD (Research, Design, and Development) department.
• The role involves managing cross-functional teams comprising members from RDD, Operations, Quality, Finance, and Commercial departments, highlighting a highly collaborative, matrixed environment.
• This structure necessitates strong leadership and communication skills to align diverse teams towards common project objectives.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Dyson emphasizes a rigorous, data-driven approach to product development and problem-solving, grounded in deep technical understanding and user insights.
• Agile & Iterative Development: While not explicitly stated, the mention of "challenging timelines" and managing "build phases" suggests an iterative development process that allows for testing, feedback, and refinement.
• Quality & Compliance Focus: A core methodology involves adhering to stringent quality, safety, and compliance standards throughout the product lifecycle, ensuring robust and reliable products.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Dyson's culture is known for its innovation, demanding standards, and fast-paced environment. For operations professionals, this means an opportunity to work on cutting-edge products with a focus on efficiency, quality, and rapid deployment, while navigating a structured but dynamic corporate setting.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level management position within the product development and engineering function. It requires significant experience and the ability to lead complex projects and influence stakeholders across various departments. Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to the Head of Category, indicating a direct line of leadership within a specific product area (EC category). This position likely interacts with peers in other categories and reports up through senior RDD leadership. Operations Impact: The Design Manager plays a pivotal role in ensuring that new products are not only innovative in design but also operationally ready for mass production and market launch. Their success directly impacts Dyson's ability to meet market demands, achieve financial objectives, and maintain its competitive edge through timely delivery of high-quality products. This role is crucial in bridging the gap between R&D and the operational execution required for Go-to-Market success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to Head of Category, Director of RDD, or similar senior leadership roles, overseeing larger teams and broader product portfolios.
• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise within the EC category or explore other specialized areas within Dyson's diverse product lines.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into roles within Operations, Project Management, or Commercial functions, leveraging their deep product understanding.
• Skill Development: Continuous learning through exposure to cutting-edge technologies, advanced manufacturing techniques, and Dyson's robust internal development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a leading technology company, particularly for those with a strong blend of technical, project management, and operational readiness skills. The impact on GTM is significant, making it a strategic position for career growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at Dyson's Global Development Campus in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. This suggests a modern, well-equipped R&D facility designed for collaboration and innovation. Office Location(s): Malaysia - Global Development Campus, Johor Bahru. This location is a key hub for Dyson's global product development efforts. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The campus is designed to foster collaboration, with teams working together on complex projects. The role requires extensive interaction with engineers, operations specialists, and commercial teams.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design and engineering tools, prototyping facilities, and potentially advanced manufacturing simulation software.
• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with team members, peers, and senior management, facilitating rapid problem-solving and decision-making.

Work Schedule: The role is on-site, requiring full-time presence at the Johor Bahru campus. While a standard 40-hour week is implied, the demands of NPD projects and tight deadlines may necessitate flexible working hours or occasional overtime to ensure project milestones are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement emphasizes Dyson's preference for collaborative, in-person work environments, especially for roles critical to product development and operational readiness. The campus environment is likely conducive to intense project work and rapid iteration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and application to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's core requirements.
• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion focused on experience, leadership style, technical expertise, and understanding of product development methodologies. Expect questions about past projects, challenges, and how you've managed teams and stakeholders.
• Technical/Case Study Assessment: You may be asked to present a portfolio of your work, detailing a complex product development project, its challenges, your role, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes. This will likely involve assessing your technical depth, problem-solving approach, and understanding of DFM/DFA and cost optimization.
• Cross-Functional Team Interview: Interviews with key stakeholders from Engineering, Operations, and Commercial to assess collaboration skills, communication effectiveness, and ability to influence cross-functional teams.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership (e.g., Head of Category or RDD Director) to discuss strategic fit, leadership potential, and overall alignment with Dyson's culture and objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: Focus on quantifiable achievements and the impact of your contributions on project success, cost savings, or efficiency improvements.
• Showcase Problem-Solving: Detail complex technical challenges you've faced and your systematic approach to resolving them. Explain your thought process.
• Demonstrate Leadership: Provide examples of how you’ve led and motivated cross-functional teams, managed stakeholders, and driven decisions.
• Include Operational Readiness: Clearly articulate your involvement in DFM, DFA, VAVE, and ensuring products were ready for mass production and commercialization.
• Structure Clearly: Organize your portfolio by project, clearly defining your role, the project scope, key challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Prepare a concise overview presentation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Deep Dive: Be prepared to discuss core engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and specific technical challenges relevant to the EC category.
• Scenario-Based Questions: Anticipate questions about how you would handle specific project challenges, stakeholder conflicts, or resource constraints.
• Operational Readiness Scenarios: Think about how you would ensure a product is operationally ready for launch, considering supply chain, manufacturing capacity, quality control, and cost targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely rigorous, reflecting Dyson's high standards. A strong portfolio that demonstrates not only design and engineering prowess but also a deep understanding of operational readiness and GTM impact will be crucial for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/CAE Software: Proficiency with industry-standard Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) tools for mechanical design and simulation (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, ANSYS, COMSOL).
• Project Management Software: Experience with project management platforms for planning, tracking, and reporting on project progress (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira).
• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools for team communication and document sharing (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack, SharePoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from simulations, testing, and manufacturing to inform decisions. While not explicitly stated, familiarity with data analysis tools could be beneficial.
• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating clear and concise reports for leadership, detailing project status, risks, and financial performance.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP Systems: Understanding of how product development integrates with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for BOM management, cost tracking, and supply chain planning.
• PLM Systems: Experience with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems for managing product data, revisions, and change control throughout development.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description doesn't list specific tools, a Design Manager in a company like Dyson would be expected to be proficient with advanced CAD/CAE software and have a solid understanding of project management and PLM/ERP systems that are integral to product development and operational execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Differentiation: A core value at Dyson, driving the pursuit of products that are "truly different and better."
• Excellence & Rigor: Commitment to maintaining exemplary standards in quality, safety, and performance through meticulous design and development processes.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across global, cross-functional teams to achieve shared objectives.
• Accountability & Drive: A culture that values individuals who take ownership, demonstrate perseverance, and are motivated to deliver challenging projects.
• Efficiency & Cost Consciousness: While innovation is key, there is also a strong focus on delivering products that meet aspirational financial targets, implying an underlying value of operational efficiency.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated & Cross-Functional: Dyson fosters a highly integrated approach where RDD, Operations, Quality, Finance, and Commercial teams work closely together from the early stages of product development.
• Direct & Data-Driven: Communication is expected to be direct, transparent, and backed by data and technical evidence.
• Fast-Paced & Dynamic: Team interactions occur in a fast-paced environment, requiring agility, quick decision-making, and the ability to adapt to changing project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates who can demonstrate alignment with Dyson's core values, particularly innovation, rigor, and collaborative problem-solving within a demanding, results-oriented environment, will be highly regarded.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Aggressive Timelines: Delivering complex, innovative products within extremely challenging project timelines without dedicated project management support.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Effectively managing and influencing diverse global teams with potentially competing priorities and perspectives.
• Technical Complexity: Solving multi-disciplinary technical challenges that span mechanical, electrical, software, and connectivity domains.
• Cost & Quality Balance: Balancing aspirational product performance and innovation with stringent cost targets and high-quality standards.
• Navigating Governance: Successfully steering projects through Dyson's established governance and milestone review processes.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: Work with advanced engineering and manufacturing technologies that define Dyson's innovative product lines.
• Mentorship from Senior Leaders: Opportunity to learn from experienced professionals and leaders within Dyson's RDD and broader organization.
• Leadership Development Programs: Dyson invests in developing its leaders, offering structured programs to enhance management and strategic thinking skills.
• Industry Best Practices: Gain insights into Dyson's unique approach to product development, which often sets industry benchmarks.
• Global Project Exposure: Work on projects with global impact, providing a broad perspective on international market demands and operational considerations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant challenges but also offers substantial opportunities for professional growth within a cutting-edge technology company. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they overcome such challenges and leverage them for development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a complex product development project from concept to launch within aggressive timelines. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure success?" (Focus on your leadership, problem-solving, and operational readiness approach.)
• "How do you balance innovation and product differentiation with cost targets and manufacturability? Provide an example." (Demonstrate your understanding of DFM/DFA and VAVE.)
• "Walk me through your process for managing project risks and ensuring quality and compliance standards are met throughout development." (Highlight your systematic approach and attention to detail.)
• "How do you effectively collaborate with and influence stakeholders from different departments (e.g., Operations, Commercial) to achieve project alignment and buy-in?" (Showcase your communication and influencing skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why Dyson? What attracts you to our company and this specific role?" (Research Dyson's innovation, values, and recent product launches.)
• "How do you handle ambiguity and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment?" (Relate to Dyson's culture of continuous improvement and rapid development.)
• "Describe your experience working with global teams. What are the key challenges and strategies for success?" (Align with Dyson's global RDD structure.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your role, the solution, the challenges overcome, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, performance improvements, successful launch).
• Emphasize Operations Integration: Explicitly detail your involvement in ensuring the product was manufacturable, cost-effective, and ready for commercialization. Use terms like DFM, DFA, VAVE, SOP readiness.
• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, charts, and images to illustrate complex technical aspects and project progress.
• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a set timeframe, focusing on the most impactful contributions.
• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, project management approach, and stakeholder interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating your leadership, technical problem-solving, and operational readiness expertise, using specific examples from your experience that align with Dyson's values and the demands of the role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the Dyson careers portal via the provided URL.
• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 8+ years of experience in design and product development, emphasizing NPD project leadership, DFM/DFA expertise, cost management, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects that showcase your ability to manage complex technical challenges, drive product development from concept to SOP, and ensure operational readiness. Be ready to present 1-2 key projects in detail.
• Research Dyson: Understand Dyson's latest product innovations, its mission, values, and its position in the consumer electronics market. Familiarize yourself with the EC category if possible.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for behavioral and situational questions, focusing on STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to articulate your experience and problem-solving capabilities.

⚠️ 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.

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