Product Designer, IITTALA

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer, IITTALA Company: Fiskars Group Location: Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland Job Type: Full-Time Category: Design & Product Development Date Posted: 2025-10-10 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is central to translating creative vision into tangible, commercially viable products for the IITTALA brand, focusing on seasonal collections.
• The Product Designer will lead the end-to-end design process, from initial concept generation to final prototype, ensuring adherence to IITTALA's unique design language and quality standards.
• A key aspect involves close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing, to ensure manufacturability and market relevance.
• The position requires a blend of strong aesthetic sensibilities, technical proficiency in design software, and an understanding of materials, production, and market trends to drive innovation and sustainability.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on leading the design process and collaborating with various departments, it implies a need for strong project management and communication skills beyond pure design execution. The mention of "commercial awareness" and "sustainability requirements" suggests the role is not purely aesthetic but also business-driven, common in modern product development operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Translate seasonal briefs, creative direction, and conceptual frameworks into innovative, high-quality product designs that embody IITTALA's distinct aesthetic and heritage.
• Develop comprehensive design packs, including detailed technical drawings, 3D models, and material specifications, ensuring manufacturability and alignment with brand identity.
• Build and present mood boards that define key design elements such as silhouettes, material choices, finishes, and color palettes, in close partnership with the Creative Director.
• Actively participate in and lead prototype reviews, meticulously capturing and integrating stakeholder feedback to refine designs throughout the development lifecycle.
• Collaborate effectively with Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing teams to ensure designs are feasible, cost-effective, and meet production timelines.
• Contribute to innovation workshops and brainstorming sessions for new product concepts, exploring emerging trends, materials, and manufacturing techniques.
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of global design trends, material advancements, manufacturing technologies, and new design software or AI tools to foster continuous improvement.
• Balance creative ambition with commercial objectives, sustainability mandates, and functional requirements to deliver market-leading products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a structured product development lifecycle, common in GTM operations. Leading prototype reviews and collaborating with Merchandising and Sourcing points to a need for understanding the operational aspects of bringing a product to market, not just the creative ideation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, or a related field is typically expected for a role of this seniority and focus.

Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in product design, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked within premium or luxury brand environments.
• Proven track record of managing the design process from concept inception through to final product realization.

Required Skills:

• Product Design Expertise: Demonstrated ability to conceptualize, design, and develop high-quality products, with a keen eye for aesthetics, form, and function.
• Software Proficiency: Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), Rhino (3D modeling), and KeyShot (rendering).
• Technical Design Skills: Proficiency in creating detailed technical drawings, 3D models, and preparing specifications for manufacturing.
• Material & Production Knowledge: Strong understanding of various materials, their properties, manufacturing processes, and production capabilities relevant to home goods and design objects.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Ability to work effectively with diverse teams, including product development, merchandising, sourcing, and marketing, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Communication & Presentation: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for presenting design concepts, technical details, and rationale to stakeholders.
• Time Management & Adaptability: Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, meet deadlines, and adapt to evolving project requirements in a fast-paced environment.
• Problem-Solving: A proactive and analytical approach to identifying and resolving design and production challenges.

Preferred Skills:

• AI Design Tools: Experience with AI tools such as Midjourney for concept exploration and ideation.
• International Market Acumen: Understanding of global design trends and consumer preferences in premium markets.
• Sustainability Focus: Knowledge of sustainable design practices and materials.
• Additional Languages: Fluency in languages beyond English can be advantageous in an international company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Rhino and KeyShot, along with Adobe Creative Suite, indicates a technical requirement. The preference for AI tool experience suggests the company is forward-thinking. The emphasis on premium/luxury brands suggests a need for understanding high-end aesthetics and quality standards.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Process Showcase: The portfolio must clearly articulate the candidate's design process, from initial research and concept development through to final design execution and detailing for production.
• Technical Proficiency Examples: Include examples of detailed technical drawings, 3D models, and specifications that demonstrate proficiency in software like Rhino and the ability to translate designs for manufacturing.
• Material and Finish Exploration: Showcase examples of material selection, finishes, and how they were integrated into product designs, highlighting an understanding of tactile qualities and aesthetics.
• Commercial Viability & Innovation: Present case studies or projects that demonstrate an ability to balance creative vision with commercial requirements, sustainability, and innovation.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Evidence: If possible, include projects that highlight collaboration with product development or manufacturing teams, showing an understanding of production constraints and feedback integration.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their approach to creating and documenting design packs, technical specifications, and design briefs for internal and external stakeholders.
• The ability to articulate how they manage design iterations and feedback loops within a structured product development workflow will be assessed.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design role, the portfolio is paramount. The emphasis here is on showcasing not just aesthetic output but the entire process, including technical execution and collaboration, which are critical for operational success in product development.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a Product Designer with 5-10 years of experience in Finland, particularly in a premium brand context, the estimated annual gross salary range is €50,000 - €75,000. This estimate considers the cost of living in Espoo, the company's global presence, and the seniority of the role.

Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation: Salaries are benchmarked against industry standards and local market factors to ensure fair compensation.
• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health and well-being programs and coverage, adapted to regional requirements.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off plans and flexible work arrangements to support personal commitments and professional life.
• Professional Development: Access to training programs, skill development initiatives, and learning resources to foster career growth.
• Inclusive and Diverse Environment: A workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes inclusivity, fostering collaboration and respect.
• Recognition and Rewards: Programs designed to acknowledge and reward exceptional performance and achievements.
• Vested Interest: Opportunity to invest in Fiskars Group through the Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP).
• Employee Discounts: Discounts on Fiskars Group brands, allowing employees to enjoy their products.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through hybrid work arrangements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range is an estimation based on general market data for Finland and the specified experience level and industry. Actual compensation will be determined by Fiskars Group based on individual qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The listed benefits are directly from the job description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Goods, Tableware, Glassware, Ceramics, Kitchenware, Gardening Tools, Outdoor Gear. Fiskars Group operates across multiple sectors, with the IITTALA brand specifically focusing on premium design for indoor living. Company Size: Approximately 7,000 employees globally. This indicates a well-established, mid-to-large-sized international corporation with structured processes and opportunities for career progression. Founded: 1649 for the Fiskars brand, 1881 for the IITTALA glass factory. This deep heritage signifies a company with strong brand values, a commitment to craftsmanship, and a long-term vision.

Team Structure:

• The Product Designer will report to the Creative Director, indicating a hierarchical structure within the design department.
• Collaboration is expected with Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing teams, highlighting a cross-functional operational model.
• The role operates within the BA Vita business area, which houses premium and luxury brands like IITTALA.

Methodology:

• Design-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes "pioneering design to make the everyday extraordinary," underscoring a core value of design excellence.
• Heritage & Innovation: A blend of respecting traditional craftsmanship and embracing new technologies and trends is central to their product development strategy.
• Commercial Awareness: Designs must be commercially viable, indicating a focus on market needs, sustainability, and profitability alongside aesthetics and functionality.
• Data-Informed Decisions: While not explicitly detailed, the focus on market trends and commercial viability suggests a data-informed approach to design and product strategy.

Company Website: http://fiskarsgroup.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The deep heritage and focus on design excellence for brands like IITTALA suggest a culture that values quality, craftsmanship, and long-term brand building. The hybrid nature of BA Vita (multiple premium brands) and BA Fiskars implies a complex operational structure with distinct market focuses.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-level to Senior Product Designer. The requirement for 5+ years of experience and the responsibility for leading design processes from concept to prototype indicate a role with significant autonomy and impact. Reporting Structure: Reporting directly to the Creative Director places the role within a strategic design leadership framework, offering exposure to high-level decision-making. Operations Impact: The Product Designer directly influences the IITTALA brand's product portfolio, impacting its market positioning, revenue generation, and brand perception through the creation of commercially viable and aesthetically compelling products. Success here contributes directly to sales figures and brand equity within the premium segment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to deepen expertise in specific product categories within the IITTALA portfolio or across other BA Vita brands.
• Leadership: Advancement to Senior Product Designer, Lead Designer, or even Creative Director roles within Fiskars Group, managing larger teams or broader design strategies.
• Skill Development: Opportunities to learn and apply new design tools (e.g., advanced AI, VR/AR in design), explore sustainable materials, and gain deeper insights into global market trends and consumer behavior.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into related roles within Product Development, Merchandising, or Brand Management, leveraging design expertise in broader business contexts.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Product Designer in a large, design-focused organization like Fiskars Group typically involves deepening design expertise, moving into leadership, or broadening into related business functions. The emphasis on innovation and sustainability suggests growth opportunities in those specialized areas.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, based at the Fiskars Group HQ Campus in Espoo, Finland. This suggests a professional office environment with amenities and collaborative spaces, complemented by remote work flexibility. Office Location(s): Fiskars Group Campus, Espoo, Finland. This location likely offers a modern, well-equipped workspace designed to foster creativity and collaboration among design and product development teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The hybrid model and HQ location imply access to meeting rooms, studios, and common areas designed for team interaction and brainstorming sessions.
• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Rhino, KeyShot), potentially 3D printing facilities, and other technological resources necessary for product design.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with the Creative Director, fellow designers, and cross-functional partners, balanced with the flexibility of remote work for focused individual tasks.

Work Schedule:

• A standard full-time work schedule (approx. 40 hours per week) is expected, with the flexibility of a hybrid arrangement allowing for a mix of in-office and remote work days. This schedule supports deep work sessions and collaborative meetings effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature and HQ location suggest a structured yet flexible work environment, typical for established companies aiming to balance employee well-being with operational needs. For a design role, access to prototyping tools and collaborative spaces is usually a key component of the physical workspace.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Screening of CV and portfolio for essential skills, experience, and alignment with IITTALA's design ethos.
• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their work, detailing their design process, problem-solving approaches, and rationale for design decisions. This is a critical stage for assessing creative thinking and technical execution.
• Cross-Functional Interviews: Interviews with the Creative Director and potentially members of Product Development, Merchandising, or Sourcing to assess collaboration skills, understanding of commercial aspects, and technical feasibility.
• Case Study/Design Challenge: Potentially a practical exercise or case study to evaluate problem-solving skills, creativity under pressure, and application of design tools relevant to IITTALA's product categories.
• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluation of how well the candidate aligns with Fiskars Group's values, company culture, and the specific ethos of the IITTALA brand.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your skills relevant to IITTALA's aesthetic and product types (e.g., glassware, ceramics, home decor).
• Showcase Process: For each project, clearly outline your role, the problem statement, your design process (research, ideation, refinement), technical execution (drawings, models, materials), and the final outcome.
• Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio includes examples of detailed technical drawings, 3D models, and material specifications that showcase proficiency in Rhino, KeyShot, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Demonstrate Commercial Acumen: Include projects where you successfully balanced creative vision with commercial viability, sustainability, or functional requirements.
• Prepare to Discuss: Be ready to articulate your design decisions, challenges faced, how you incorporated feedback, and the impact of your designs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand IITTALA's Design Language: Familiarize yourself with IITTALA's history, key designers, iconic products, and current collections. Understand their aesthetic principles (minimalism, functionality, natural materials).
• Familiarize with Tools: Be prepared to discuss your experience with Rhino, KeyShot, and AI tools, and potentially demonstrate proficiency in a live exercise.
• Consider Sustainability & Innovation: Think about how you would approach designing for sustainability and incorporating new trends or technologies relevant to home goods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process heavily relies on the portfolio. Candidates should prepare to not only show finished products but also the entire journey of creation, emphasizing problem-solving, technical execution, and strategic thinking relevant to a premium design brand.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for 2D design, concept visualization, mood boards, and final artwork preparation (e.g., Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign).
• Rhino: Critical for 3D modeling and complex surface design, enabling detailed product form development.
• KeyShot: Required for high-quality product rendering and visualization, crucial for presenting designs to stakeholders and for marketing materials.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly listed, the role will likely interact with data from market research, sales performance, and product development metrics. Tools for data visualization or dashboard interaction may be beneficial, though not explicitly required for the designer role itself.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the Product Designer role, but understanding the broader product lifecycle and how designs feed into merchandising and sales systems is important.

Emerging Tools:

• AI Design Tools (e.g., Midjourney): Preferred for concept generation, mood boarding, and exploring novel design directions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Rhino, KeyShot, and Adobe Creative Suite, along with the preference for AI tools, defines the core technical requirements for this design role. Proficiency in these specific software packages is non-negotiable for effective product development and presentation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Pioneering Design: A deep commitment to creative excellence and pushing the boundaries of design to enhance everyday life.
• Craftsmanship & Quality: Upholding high standards of material quality, manufacturing precision, and timeless design that lasts.
• Innovation: Continuously exploring new materials, technologies, and design approaches to create relevant and forward-thinking products.
• Sustainability: Integrating environmentally conscious practices and materials into the design and production process.
• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued and cross-functional cooperation drives success.
• Commercial Awareness: Ensuring that creative endeavors are aligned with market needs, business objectives, and profitability.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates close working relationships with Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing teams, requiring clear communication and shared understanding of project goals.
• Feedback-Driven Refinement: A culture that encourages constructive feedback and iterative design processes to achieve optimal outcomes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of insights on trends, materials, and technologies to collectively elevate the design output of the IITTALA brand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core values emphasize a blend of artistic vision, practical execution, and business acumen, which is crucial for a product designer in a commercial enterprise. The collaborative style suggests an environment where interdepartmental communication is key to successful product launches.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Commercial Demands: The constant need to innovate and express the brand's unique aesthetic while ensuring products are profitable and meet market demand.
• Navigating Complex Production Processes: Understanding and adapting designs to various manufacturing techniques, material limitations, and cost constraints across different suppliers.
• Staying Ahead of Trends: Keeping pace with rapidly evolving design trends, material innovations, and consumer expectations in the premium home goods market.
• Integrating Sustainability: Effectively incorporating sustainable materials and practices into designs without compromising aesthetic quality or functionality.
• Managing Cross-Functional Stakeholders: Effectively communicating design intent and justifying decisions to diverse teams with potentially differing priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen Design Expertise: Opportunities to master advanced techniques in 3D modeling, rendering, and material science relevant to IITTALA's product categories.
• Industry Exposure: Potential to attend design fairs, workshops, and conferences to stay abreast of global trends and network with industry professionals.
• Sustainability & Innovation Focus: Specialized training or project involvement in sustainable design, circular economy principles, or emerging technologies.
• Brand Strategy Involvement: Gaining a deeper understanding of brand positioning, market analysis, and consumer insights that inform design strategy for premium brands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the multi-faceted nature of modern product design, requiring not just creative talent but also strategic thinking, technical skill, and strong interpersonal abilities. Growth opportunities are geared towards specialization, leadership, and staying at the forefront of design innovation.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process Articulation: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio projects, explaining your methodology from initial concept to final production, highlighting problem-solving steps and key decisions. Focus on how you translate briefs into tangible designs.
• Brand Alignment: Discuss how you would approach designing for the IITTALA brand, referencing its heritage, design language, and target audience. How do you ensure designs are both innovative and true to the brand?
• Technical Proficiency Demonstration: Be ready to discuss your experience with Rhino, KeyShot, and Adobe Creative Suite. If a design challenge is given, demonstrate your proficiency in applying these tools.
• Collaboration Scenarios: Describe situations where you successfully collaborated with product development, merchandising, or manufacturing teams. How did you handle disagreements or conflicting feedback?
• Commercial & Sustainability Considerations: Explain how you incorporate commercial viability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability into your design process. Provide examples.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Understanding of IITTALA: Research IITTALA's history, key designers, design philosophy, and current product lines. Be ready to discuss what resonates with you about the brand.
• Adaptability & Problem-Solving: Discuss a time you had to adapt a design due to unforeseen technical challenges or market feedback. What was your approach?
• Teamwork: How do you contribute to a positive and productive team environment, especially in a hybrid setting?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or chronological order. For each project, clearly state your role, the objective, your process, the challenges, and the outcome.
• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality visuals (renderings, technical drawings, photos of prototypes) to tell the story of your design.
• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you have data on the success of your past designs (e.g., sales figures, positive reviews), be ready to share it.
• Focus on Relevance: Tailor your portfolio presentation to highlight projects most relevant to IITTALA's product categories and aesthetic.
• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Present your strongest points clearly and efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just creative talent but also a structured, collaborative, and business-minded approach to product design, aligning with the operational requirements of bringing products to market.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit CV & Portfolio: Apply directly through the Fiskars Group careers website. Ensure your CV is up-to-date and your portfolio is readily accessible and showcases your best work relevant to IITTALA.
• Portfolio Customization: Select and organize your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating your skills in 3D modeling (Rhino), rendering (KeyShot), technical drawing, and your design process for premium home goods.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize experience in product design, premium/luxury brands, software proficiency, cross-functional collaboration, and any experience with AI design tools or sustainability initiatives.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Fiskars Group, the IITTALA brand's history, design philosophy, and target market. Understand their commitment to pioneering design and sustainability.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, discussing your portfolio, and preparing to answer questions about collaboration, problem-solving, and brand alignment. Be ready to discuss your experience with the specified design software.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Fiskars Group during the application or interview process.