Product Designer, IITTALA

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer, IITTALA Company: Fiskars Group Location: Espoo, Uusimaa, Finland Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Product Design Date Posted: 2025-10-24 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the translation of creative vision into commercially viable and high-quality product designs for Iittala's seasonal collections.
• Spearhead the end-to-end design process, from initial concept development and mood board creation to detailed design packs and technical specifications.
• Foster strong cross-functional collaboration with Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing teams to ensure manufacturability and brand alignment.
• Champion innovation by contributing to new product ideation and staying abreast of emerging design trends, materials, and manufacturing techniques.
• Integrate commercial, sustainability, and functional requirements seamlessly into the creative design process, balancing artistic ambition with market needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Product Designer for Iittala within Fiskars Group requires a blend of artistic vision and practical execution. The emphasis on translating creative direction into commercially viable products, managing the full design lifecycle, and collaborating across departments indicates a need for strong project management and stakeholder communication skills, typical for mid-to-senior level design positions within established consumer goods companies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Translate seasonal briefs and creative direction into innovative, high-quality product designs that embody Iittala’s distinct design language.
• Develop comprehensive design packs, including detailed technical drawings and 3D models, ensuring manufacturability and adherence to brand standards.
• Construct mood boards that define silhouettes, materials, finishes, and color palettes in close partnership with the Creative Director.
• Actively participate in and lead prototype reviews, effectively capturing and implementing stakeholder feedback to refine designs.
• Collaborate closely with Product Development, Merchandising, and Sourcing teams throughout the design lifecycle to ensure seamless integration and feasibility.
• Contribute to innovation workshops, exploring new product concepts and potential design directions for future collections.
• Maintain a strong awareness of current design trends, emerging materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, and evolving design software.
• Ensure all designs meet commercial, sustainability, and functional requirements while upholding Iittala's high standards of quality and aesthetic.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a structured design process, from ideation to production. The emphasis on "design packs," "technical drawings," and "3D models" suggests a need for meticulous documentation and a strong understanding of manufacturing realities. The requirement to "balance creative vision with commercial, sustainability, and functional requirements" underscores the strategic nature of the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, or a related design field is typically expected for a role of this nature, providing a foundational understanding of design principles and methodologies.

Experience: A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in product design, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked within premium or luxury brand environments. This experience should demonstrate a proven ability to manage design projects from concept to completion and a deep understanding of high-quality product development.

Required Skills:

• 5+ years of product design experience, ideally within premium or luxury sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of design processes, materials, and production capabilities for consumer goods.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design software: Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign).
• Expertise in 3D modeling software: Rhino.
• Proficiency in 3D rendering and visualization: KeyShot.
• Skilled in creating detailed technical drawings for manufacturing.
• Experience in managing the development of 3D prototypes and utilizing 3D printing technologies.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including product development, merchandising, and sourcing.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of articulating design concepts clearly and persuasively.
• Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under deadlines.
• A proactive, problem-solving mindset coupled with adaptability to evolving project requirements.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI-driven design tools such as Midjourney.
• Familiarity with sustainable design practices and materials.
• Additional language proficiency, particularly Finnish or other Nordic languages, is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite, Rhino, KeyShot) is standard for product designers. However, the explicit mention of AI tools like Midjourney and a focus on "sustainability" and "craftsmanship" indicates a forward-thinking approach to design within Iittala, suggesting that candidates with exposure to these areas will be more competitive. The emphasis on "premium or luxury brand" experience points to a need for a sophisticated aesthetic sensibility and an understanding of high-end market expectations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 comprehensive product design case studies, demonstrating a clear progression from initial concept to final product.
• Highlight projects that reflect an understanding of Iittala's design ethos, emphasizing timeless aesthetics, functionality, and quality craftsmanship.
• Include examples of technical drawings, 3D models, and rendered visualizations that illustrate manufacturability and attention to detail.
• Present prototypes or mock-ups, showcasing the tangible realization of design concepts.
• Demonstrate experience in balancing creative vision with commercial viability, sustainability considerations, and functional requirements within your case studies.

Process Documentation:

• Clearly articulate your design process within case studies, detailing steps such as user research (if applicable), concept generation, material selection, prototyping, and refinement.
• Provide examples of how you have developed and utilized design briefs, mood boards, and technical specifications to guide the design and development process.
• Illustrate your collaboration methods with cross-functional teams (e.g., product development, manufacturing, marketing) and how you have incorporated their feedback.
• Showcase your approach to problem-solving, demonstrating how you have overcome design challenges related to materials, production, or market fit.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Product Designer role, the portfolio is paramount. The emphasis here is not just on visual aesthetics but on demonstrating a structured, end-to-end design process, including technical documentation and collaboration. The inclusion of "commercial viability" and "sustainability" in portfolio requirements suggests that Iittala is looking for designers who understand the business context of their creative work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Product Designer with 5-10 years of experience in Espoo, Finland, the estimated annual salary range is €50,000 - €75,000. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Finnish market, considering the specific software requirements and the premium brand context of Iittala.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, public holidays, and sick leave.
• Pension scheme contributions designed to support long-term financial security.
• Opportunities for professional development, including training, workshops, and conference attendance.
• Employee discounts on Fiskars Group brands, including Iittala.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between home and office.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through the hybrid work arrangement. This allows for a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work, accommodating project needs and personal well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates for Finland are based on data from reputable sources like Glassdoor and local recruitment agencies specializing in design and manufacturing roles. The range reflects the experience level and the specific technical skills required. Benefits are standard for a large, international company like Fiskars Group, with a particular emphasis on professional development and employee discounts relevant to the brand.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Goods, Consumer Products, Design, and Manufacturing. Fiskars Group operates within a competitive global market, with Iittala positioned as a premium brand known for its Scandinavian design heritage and focus on timeless quality. Company Size: Fiskars Group is a large, publicly traded company with over 7,000 employees globally. This scale offers stability and resources, while the Iittala brand maintains its distinct creative identity. Founded: Iittala was founded in 1881, and Fiskars Group was founded in 1649. This rich history provides a strong foundation of craftsmanship and innovation, influencing the company's long-term vision and commitment to design excellence.

Team Structure:

• The Product Designer will report to the Creative Director of Iittala.
• The design team likely consists of other designers, design assistants, and potentially specialists in areas like material research or CAD.
• Close collaboration is expected with Product Development, Merchandising, Marketing, and Sourcing teams, forming a cross-functional network essential for bringing products to market.

Methodology:

• Design at Iittala is driven by a blend of heritage, innovation, and a deep understanding of materials and craftsmanship.
• The process emphasizes a user-centric approach, focusing on creating products for "better living" and "lasting appreciation."
• Data-informed decisions are crucial, balancing creative ambition with market trends, commercial viability, and sustainability goals.
• Continuous learning and exploration of new design tools and manufacturing techniques are encouraged.

Company Website:

• Fiskars Group: https://fiskarsgroup.com/
• Iittala: https://www.iittala.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in design heritage and a commitment to quality and innovation. The scale of Fiskars Group provides opportunities for structured processes and resources, while Iittala's brand identity ensures a focus on progressive Nordic design. Understanding this balance is key for candidates.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an experienced Product Designer position, likely considered a mid-to-senior level within the design hierarchy. It requires significant autonomy in managing design projects and a strong ability to influence product direction.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer reports directly to the Creative Director of Iittala. This close reporting line suggests significant mentorship opportunities and direct involvement in high-level design strategy discussions.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's impact is central to Iittala's product innovation and market competitiveness. By translating creative concepts into desirable, manufacturable products, they directly influence revenue generation, brand perception, and customer engagement. Their designs contribute to Iittala's mission of inspiring "better living."

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific product categories (e.g., tableware, home décor) or materials.
• Leadership: Advancement to Senior Product Designer, Design Lead, or even Creative Director roles within Iittala or other Fiskars Group brands.
• Skill Development: Opportunities to deepen expertise in advanced design software, AI-driven design, sustainable materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Cross-Brand Exposure: Potential to work on projects for other brands within the Fiskars Group portfolio.
• Innovation Focus: Involvement in R&D projects and exploration of future design trends and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned for a designer with a solid track record looking to deepen their expertise and potentially move into leadership. The "impact on revenue" is directly tied to the success of the products they design, making their contribution highly visible and valuable.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Fiskars Group Campus in Espoo, Finland, described as a "hybrid role." This suggests a modern office environment designed to support both collaborative work and individual focus, with amenities that facilitate creative processes.

Office Location(s): The primary location is the Fiskars Group Campus, FI Espoo, Finland. This centralized campus likely fosters a strong sense of community and facilitates collaboration among different teams and brands.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid nature and campus setting encourage interaction with colleagues from design, product development, and other departments, fostering idea exchange and teamwork.
• Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design software (Adobe Suite, Rhino, KeyShot), 3D modeling and printing facilities, and potentially an innovation lab for exploring new materials and techniques.
• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for design reviews, brainstorming sessions, and project meetings, both in-person and virtually, to ensure alignment and collective problem-solving.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility afforded by the hybrid work model. This allows designers to structure their time effectively, balancing focused design work with collaborative sessions and personal commitments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and campus environment suggest a workplace that values both focused, individual creative work and dynamic team collaboration. The emphasis on technology and modern facilities will be important for a designer.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with Iittala's design aesthetic.
• First Interview: Typically with the hiring manager (Creative Director) to discuss experience, design philosophy, motivation, and cultural fit. Portfolio presentation and discussion will be key.
• Design Challenge/Exercise: Candidates may be asked to complete a design task or present a detailed case study from their portfolio, focusing on their problem-solving approach, creative process, and technical execution.
• Second Interview: Potentially with other key stakeholders (e.g., Head of Product Development, Merchandising Manager) to evaluate cross-functional collaboration skills and broader business understanding.
• Final Interview/Offer: Discussion of terms and final decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Focus on quality over quantity. Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that align with Iittala's brand and the role requirements.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, your process, the challenges you faced, your solutions, and the outcome (quantify results where possible).
• Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates proficiency in 3D modeling, technical drawings, and rendering software. Include examples of these deliverables.
• Showcase Process: Detail your design thinking, from initial ideation and mood boards to prototyping and refinement. Explain your rationale behind key decisions.
• Demonstrate Brand Fit: Tailor your presentation to Iittala's aesthetic and values. Explain how your work aligns with their commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and progressive Nordic design.
• Prepare for Discussion: Be ready to discuss your projects in depth, answer questions about your design choices, and articulate your approach to collaboration and problem-solving.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If a design challenge is provided, thoroughly analyze the brief, identifying key constraints, objectives, and target audience.
• Focus on Process: Even if time is limited, demonstrate a clear and logical design process. Document your thinking, sketches, and key decisions.
• Prioritize and Scope: Be realistic about what you can achieve within the given timeframe. Focus on delivering a well-reasoned solution for the most critical aspects of the brief.
• Communicate Rationale: Clearly explain the reasoning behind your design choices, material selections, and functional considerations.
• Presentation: Practice presenting your solution concisely and effectively, highlighting your problem-solving approach and key design elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a strong portfolio and practical design skills. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their process and justify their design decisions, demonstrating both creativity and a grounded understanding of manufacturing and commercial realities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for 2D design, mood boards, graphic assets, and final presentation materials (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• Rhino (Rhinoceros 3D): A powerful NURBS modeling tool crucial for complex 3D form creation and product design.
• KeyShot: Industry-standard software for creating photorealistic 3D renderings and animations, vital for visualizing product concepts.

Analytics & Reporting: While not directly a design tool, understanding how design choices impact metrics like sales, customer satisfaction, and sustainability is valuable. Familiarity with data visualization tools or reporting dashboards can be beneficial.

CRM & Automation: Not directly applicable to the core design function, but an understanding of how product information integrates into CRM or PIM (Product Information Management) systems might be useful in later stages of product lifecycle management.

Other Potentially Relevant Tools:

• 3D Printing Software/Slicers: For preparing models for rapid prototyping.
• AI Design Tools: Such as Midjourney, for concept exploration and inspiration.
• CAD Software: Depending on specific product needs, other CAD software might be used.
• Project Management Tools: Such as Asana, Trello, or Jira, for tracking design project progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on 3D design and visualization. Proficiency in Rhino and KeyShot, alongside Adobe Creative Suite, is non-negotiable. The mention of AI tools indicates a willingness to explore cutting-edge design methodologies.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Craftsmanship & Quality: A deep respect for high-quality materials, meticulous execution, and enduring design.
• Innovation & Progress: A forward-thinking approach that embraces new technologies and ideas while honoring heritage.
• Sustainability: A commitment to responsible design and production practices that minimize environmental impact.
• User-Centricity: Designing with the end-user in mind, aiming to enhance daily life and create meaningful experiences.
• Collaboration & Transparency: Working effectively across teams, sharing knowledge, and fostering a supportive environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The design team works hand-in-hand with product development, merchandising, and sourcing to ensure designs are feasible, commercially viable, and meet market needs.
• Feedback-Driven: A culture that encourages constructive feedback during design reviews and prototype stages to continuously improve products.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging designers to share insights on trends, materials, and new techniques to foster collective learning and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core values emphasize a balance between preserving Iittala's design legacy and pushing boundaries through innovation and sustainability. Collaboration is framed as essential for translating creative vision into successful products.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Vision with Commercial Demands: Successfully translating artistic concepts into products that are both aesthetically compelling and commercially successful in a competitive market.
• Material and Manufacturing Constraints: Navigating the complexities of sourcing sustainable materials and working with manufacturing partners to ensure high-quality production within budget and timeline.
• Keeping Pace with Design Trends and Technology: Continuously integrating new design tools, materials, and manufacturing techniques while maintaining Iittala's distinct design identity.
• Cross-Cultural Collaboration: Effectively communicating and collaborating with international teams, potentially across different time zones and with varying communication styles.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Rhino, KeyShot, and explore new software or AI-driven design tools.
• Material & Sustainability Workshops: Learning about emerging sustainable materials and eco-friendly production processes.
• Industry Conferences & Events: Attending design fairs and conferences to gain insights into global trends and network with industry professionals.
• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior designers or leaders within Fiskars Group, fostering career growth and leadership skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for creative roles in established companies, requiring adaptability and strategic thinking. The growth opportunities are geared towards continuous skill enhancement and career progression within the design field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for translating a seasonal brief into a tangible product concept. How do you incorporate market trends and commercial viability into your initial ideas?" (Focus on your structured approach, research methods, and ability to balance creativity with business objectives).
• "Walk us through a complex product design project from your portfolio. What were the key challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a detailed case study, highlighting your problem-solving skills, technical execution, and collaborative approach).
• "How do you ensure your designs are manufacturable and meet quality standards? Describe your experience working with factories and product development teams." (Emphasize your understanding of production processes, technical drawings, and cross-functional communication).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Iittala and Fiskars Group, and how do you see your design philosophy aligning with our brand values?" (Research Iittala's history, design principles, and recent collections. Connect your personal design ethos to theirs).
• "Describe your ideal team dynamic and collaboration style. How do you give and receive constructive feedback?" (Highlight your ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment and contribute positively to a team).
• "How do you approach sustainability in your design work, and what are your thoughts on integrating it into a premium brand like Iittala?" (Showcase your awareness of sustainable practices and how you can apply them thoughtfully within a luxury context).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentation around compelling narratives for each key project. Clearly define the problem, your role, your process, your solutions, and the impact.
• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality images, renders, and clear technical drawings. Ensure your digital portfolio is easy to navigate and visually appealing.
• Focus on Process: Be prepared to discuss your design thinking, sketching, brainstorming, material exploration, and prototyping stages in detail.
• Technical Proficiency: Clearly demonstrate your command of the required software (Rhino, KeyShot, Adobe Suite) through examples of your work.
• Conciseness: Respect the interviewer's time. Practice your presentation to be engaging yet efficient, focusing on the most impactful aspects of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the entire product design lifecycle, from creative ideation to production realities, with a clear emphasis on Iittala's brand identity and values. The portfolio is the central piece, so thorough preparation for its presentation is critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your CV and portfolio through the Fiskars Group careers website. Ensure your portfolio is easily accessible (e.g., via a link) and showcases your best relevant work.
• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio specifically for this role. Highlight projects that demonstrate your experience with premium brands, your proficiency in the required software (Rhino, KeyShot, Adobe Suite), and your understanding of materials, manufacturing, and sustainability.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your 5+ years of product design experience, specific technical skills, and achievements relevant to this role. Use keywords from the job description, such as "3D modeling," "technical drawings," "premium brand," and "cross-functional collaboration."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, explaining your project decisions, and discussing how your work aligns with Iittala's aesthetic and values. Be ready to present your portfolio confidently.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Fiskars Group and Iittala. Understand their design philosophy, current collections, sustainability initiatives, and market position. This will enable you to ask informed questions and demonstrate genuine interest during the interview.

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

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