Specialist Business Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Specialist Business Designer
Company: Avatr GmbH
Location: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
Job Type: Full-time
Category: Business Design / Product Strategy
Date Posted: September 23, 2025
Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive product strategy development within specific concept segments, aligning business objectives with design innovation.
• Conduct comprehensive market intelligence and competitive analysis to inform product roadmaps and strategic decisions.
• Facilitate cross-functional collaboration and communication between design, engineering, marketing, and international teams to ensure seamless project execution.
• Translate customer insights and market trends into actionable product requirements and strategic recommendations.
• Contribute to the creation of forward-looking concepts that blend advanced technology, user-centric design, and market relevance within the smart electric vehicle (SEV) sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of "Specialist Business Designer" at Avatr GmbH is positioned within the Global Design Center, emphasizing a blend of strategic business acumen and design-centric thinking. This role is crucial for bridging the gap between market opportunities, user needs, and the company's innovative SEV product development, with a strong emphasis on international collaboration, particularly with teams in China. The focus on "emotional intelligence" and "casual luxury" in their brand positioning suggests a need for a candidate who can translate abstract concepts into tangible product strategies.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive product strategies for designated concept segments, ensuring alignment with Avatr's overall business goals and market positioning.
• Lead market intelligence initiatives, including trend analysis, competitive benchmarking, and regulatory landscape monitoring, to identify growth opportunities and potential risks.
• Synthesize customer feedback, user research, and market data to generate actionable insights that inform product development, feature prioritization, and go-to-market strategies.
• Foster strong working relationships and facilitate effective communication with cross-functional teams, including product management, engineering, marketing, and international counterparts, to ensure cohesive strategy implementation.
• Contribute to the ideation and conceptualization of next-generation smart electric vehicles (SEVs), focusing on innovative design, advanced technology integration, and user experience enhancement.
• Prepare and deliver compelling presentations of findings, strategic proposals, and project updates to senior leadership and key stakeholders, articulating the business case and expected outcomes.
• Champion the integration of design thinking principles and user-centric methodologies throughout the product lifecycle to drive innovation and market differentiation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strategic role focused on market-driven product development within the automotive sector. The emphasis on "driving product strategies," "market intelligence," and "customer insights" suggests a need for analytical rigor and strategic foresight. The requirement for collaboration with "international teams, including China" points to the importance of cross-cultural communication and global market understanding in this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• University degree in Business Administration, Design Management, Marketing, Product Management, or a closely related field.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of progressive experience in product strategy, market analysis, business design, or a similar strategic role.
• Demonstrated experience within the automotive industry or high-tech sectors is highly preferred, with a strong understanding of product development lifecycles.
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful product strategies or business initiatives.

Required Skills:

• Product Strategy Development: Ability to define and articulate clear product visions, roadmaps, and strategies aligned with market opportunities and business objectives.
• Market Intelligence & Analysis: Proficiency in conducting in-depth market research, competitive analysis, and trend forecasting to identify strategic opportunities and inform decision-making.
• Business Design Principles: Solid understanding and application of business design methodologies to conceptualize and structure new products, services, or business models.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Excellent ability to work effectively with diverse teams, including design, engineering, marketing, and international stakeholders, fostering a collaborative environment.
• Communication & Presentation: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information and strategic recommendations clearly and persuasively to various audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Automotive Industry Expertise: In-depth knowledge of the smart electric vehicle (SEV) market, including emerging technologies, consumer trends, and competitive landscape.
• Design Thinking & User Centricity: Familiarity with design thinking frameworks and a commitment to user-centric product development.
• Data Analysis & Synthesis: Ability to analyze quantitative and qualitative data, derive meaningful insights, and translate them into strategic actions.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Basic understanding of project management principles to effectively manage initiatives within the concept segment.
• Chinese Language Proficiency: While advantageous, fluency or conversational ability in Chinese would significantly enhance collaboration with international teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of strategic business thinking, market analysis capabilities, and a passion for the automotive and technology sectors. The experience level suggests a need for someone who can operate independently while also contributing effectively to a team. The preference for automotive industry experience and knowledge of SEVs indicates a specialized requirement for this role within Avatr's specific market niche.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase concrete examples of product strategy development, highlighting the process from market analysis to strategic recommendations.
• Include case studies demonstrating market intelligence activities, outlining methodologies used and key insights derived.
• Present examples of business design contributions, illustrating how strategic thinking was applied to conceptualize or refine product offerings.
• Demonstrate experience in cross-functional collaboration, perhaps through project summaries that involve multiple departments or international teams.
• Provide evidence of presenting strategic findings and recommendations to stakeholders, showcasing communication and persuasion skills.

Process Documentation:

• Portfolios should clearly outline the frameworks and methodologies used for market analysis, trend identification, and competitive benchmarking.
• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their process for synthesizing customer insights and translating them into actionable product strategies.
• Documentation of how business design concepts were developed and validated, including any user testing or feedback loops, is highly valued.
• Evidence of process for managing stakeholder input and ensuring alignment across diverse teams will be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a strong portfolio is critical for a "Business Designer" role, especially in a creative and forward-thinking environment like Avatr's Design Center. The portfolio should serve as tangible proof of the candidate's strategic thinking, analytical capabilities, and ability to translate insights into actionable business and product plans. The emphasis on international collaboration suggests that demonstrating experience in managing diverse stakeholder inputs and cross-cultural communication within the portfolio would be advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry standards for a Specialist Business Designer with 2-5 years of experience in Munich, Germany, the estimated annual gross salary range is €55,000 - €75,000. This range accounts for the specialized nature of the role, the high-tech automotive industry, and the cost of living in Munich.

Benefits:

• Employee Development: Access to learning opportunities and training programs designed to foster career growth and skill enhancement.
• Meal Allowance: Provided for lunches at the company canteen, contributing to employee well-being and convenience.
• Company Events: Regular participation in team-building activities and social gatherings to promote a strong company culture and camaraderie.
• Inclusive Culture: A supportive and diverse work environment that values every individual's contribution and perspective.
• International Exposure: Opportunities to work with global teams and contribute to international projects, particularly with a focus on the Chinese market.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are assumed to be approximately 40 hours per week, with potential for flexibility depending on project needs and team collaboration schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for similar roles in the Munich technology and automotive sectors, considering the mid-level experience requirement. The listed benefits highlight a commitment to employee growth, well-being, and a positive work environment, which are attractive aspects for professionals in strategic roles. The mention of international work and collaboration is a key benefit for those seeking global exposure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Smart Electric Vehicles (SEV), Automotive Technology, Design Innovation. Company Size: Avatr GmbH is likely part of a larger, emerging automotive brand, suggesting a dynamic and potentially fast-paced growth environment. The "Global Design Center" implies a significant investment in design and innovation. Founded: While the exact founding date of Avatr GmbH isn't provided, the company is described as an "explorer in the new track of smart electric vehicles," indicating a relatively recent establishment focused on cutting-edge technology and market disruption.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Global Design Center, suggesting a dedicated hub for creative and strategic product development.
• This team likely comprises diverse professionals from various international backgrounds, fostering a multidisciplinary and collaborative atmosphere.
• The Specialist Business Designer will report to a senior design or strategy lead and will collaborate closely with design managers, product managers, and potentially market research specialists.
• Close interaction with international teams, especially those in China, is a key aspect of the team's operational model.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Strategy: Emphasis on using market intelligence, customer insights, and trend analysis to shape product strategies.
• Design-Centric Approach: Integrating design thinking and a human-centered philosophy into all aspects of product development.
• Collaborative Innovation: Fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are shared and debated to drive creative solutions and forward-looking concepts.
• Holistic Vision: Taking a broad view of user lifestyles and desires to create products that resonate deeply and offer "casual luxury."

Company Website: https://www.avatr.com/en

📝 Enhancement Note: Avatr's positioning as a new entrant in the SEV market, with a strong emphasis on design and emotional intelligence, suggests a culture that values innovation, creativity, and a global perspective. The quote from the Chief Design Officer paints a picture of a vibrant, international, and family-like creative environment. Understanding this culture is key for candidates to align their work style and approach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as a "Specialist," indicating a mid-level position requiring specific expertise and the ability to drive initiatives within a defined domain (concept segment). It’s an individual contributor role with significant ownership and strategic influence.

Reporting Structure: The Specialist Business Designer will likely report to a Senior Business Designer, Design Manager, or Head of Product Strategy within the Global Design Center. Collaboration will extend to product development teams, marketing, and international counterparts, requiring strong stakeholder management skills.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on product innovation and market success. By shaping product strategies and driving market insights, the Specialist Business Designer influences the direction of Avatr's SEV offerings, contributing to brand positioning, customer acquisition, and competitive differentiation in the rapidly evolving automotive market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Deepen expertise in specific product segments or market niches within the SEV industry.
• Strategic Leadership: Progress to a Senior Business Designer or Product Strategy Manager role, taking on more complex projects and leading strategic initiatives.
• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to transition into related roles within product management, market research, or global strategy teams.
• Skill Development: Continuous learning through exposure to cutting-edge automotive technology, design trends, and international market dynamics. Participation in industry events and training programs offered by the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within a specialized field. The opportunity to influence the strategic direction of a new automotive brand in a high-growth sector provides significant career development potential. The international aspect of the role also offers valuable exposure and skill-building in global business practices.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Global Design Center, which is described as a "vivid platform" and a "stage to unleash talents." This suggests a modern, collaborative, and aesthetically driven workspace designed to foster creativity and innovation.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Munich, Germany, a major hub for technology and the automotive industry. This placement provides access to a rich ecosystem of talent, research institutions, and industry events.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Atmosphere: The environment is characterized by a "bold and lively discourse of different views" and a "small creative family" dynamic, encouraging open communication and idea sharing.
• Tools & Technology: Expect access to contemporary design tools, market analysis platforms, and collaborative software necessary for strategic business design and international teamwork.
• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with a diverse, international team of designers, strategists, and product specialists, fostering a dynamic and intellectually stimulating work environment. Emphasis is placed on teamwork and mutual support.

Work Schedule: While the standard work week is likely 40 hours, the dynamic nature of product development and international collaboration may require some flexibility. The emphasis on a "humanized spirit" and a supportive culture suggests a balance between productivity and employee well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at Avatr's Global Design Center is positioned as highly creative, international, and collaborative. Candidates who thrive in dynamic, idea-driven settings with a strong emphasis on teamwork and cross-cultural exchange will find this environment appealing.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (potentially Nader Faghihzadeh, Chief Design Officer, or a direct report) focusing on strategic thinking, product experience, and understanding of the automotive market.
• Technical/Case Study Interview: Candidates may be asked to present a case study or work through a business design challenge relevant to Avatr's SEV products, assessing analytical skills, strategic approach, and problem-solving abilities.
• Team/Cross-Functional Interview: Interviews with potential team members or stakeholders from other departments to evaluate collaboration skills, communication effectiveness, and cultural alignment.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, long-term vision, and strategic contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Strategic Narrative: Structure your portfolio to tell a compelling story about your strategic thinking process, from problem identification to solution implementation.
• Data-Driven Insights: Clearly articulate how you used market data, customer insights, and competitive analysis to inform your strategies. Quantify results where possible.
• Design Integration: Showcase how you integrated design principles and user-centricity into your business strategies.
• International Context: If applicable, highlight projects involving international collaboration or market considerations.
• Clarity and Conciseness: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to understand. Focus on the most impactful projects.

Challenge Preparation:

• Market Analysis Practice: Be ready to analyze a hypothetical market segment or product category and propose strategic directions.
• Scenario Planning: Think about potential challenges Avatr might face in the SEV market and how a Business Designer would address them.
• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your strategic ideas clearly, concisely, and persuasively, anticipating questions from stakeholders.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Avatr's brand, products, and vision to tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be thorough, assessing not only technical skills but also strategic thinking, collaborative abilities, and cultural fit. A strong portfolio is crucial, and candidates should prepare to articulate their thought processes and demonstrate tangible results. The "Specialist" title and the nature of the role suggest that a practical case study or presentation will be a key component.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM & Data Management: Proficiency with CRM systems such as Salesforce, HubSpot, or similar platforms for understanding customer data and market segmentation.
• Market Research & Analytics Platforms: Experience with tools like Statista, IHS Markit, Bloomberg Terminal (for automotive industry data), Google Analytics, or similar platforms for market intelligence and trend analysis.
• Business Design & Strategy Tools: Familiarity with frameworks and software for strategic planning, business modeling (e.g., Business Model Canvas), and competitive analysis.
• Collaboration & Project Management Tools: Expertise in using tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Jira, Asana, or Trello for seamless team communication and project tracking, especially in an international context.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization Tools: Experience with tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Qlik Sense to analyze and present market data and strategic insights effectively.
• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data manipulation, analysis, and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM or automation role, understanding how CRM data informs strategy and how automation can support market analysis processes is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is not primarily technical, a strong understanding of data analysis tools, market intelligence platforms, and collaboration software is essential for effective market analysis, strategy development, and cross-functional communication. Familiarity with tools used in the automotive industry for market data and competitive intelligence would be a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Creativity: A core value is fostering an environment where new ideas are encouraged, explored, and transformed into tangible concepts that push the boundaries of automotive design and technology.
• Collaboration & Inclusivity: Valuing diverse perspectives and ensuring that all team members feel empowered to contribute their unique insights and talents, regardless of background or origin.
• User-Centricity & Empathy: A deep commitment to understanding and addressing user needs, desires, and lifestyles to create emotionally intelligent and desirable products.
• Strategic Foresight: Maintaining a forward-looking perspective, anticipating market shifts, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations to guide strategic decisions.
• Passion for Automotive: A shared enthusiasm for the automotive industry, design, and the future of mobility, driving a collective motivation to excel.

Collaboration Style:

• Open Dialogue: Encouraging bold and lively discussions where different viewpoints are shared openly and constructively, leading to robust strategy development.
• Cross-Functional Synergy: Working closely with diverse teams across departments and geographies to ensure that business strategies are well-integrated and aligned with overall company objectives.
• Knowledge Sharing: A culture where team members actively share insights, best practices, and learnings to collectively elevate the team's capabilities and drive continuous improvement.
• Feedback Integration: A willingness to receive and provide constructive feedback as a means of refining strategies and fostering personal and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture at Avatr's Global Design Center is built around creativity, collaboration, and a deep understanding of user needs within the context of innovative automotive design. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to thrive in a dynamic, international, and idea-rich environment where diverse perspectives are valued and contribute to the company's forward-thinking vision.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating a Nascent Market: As an "explorer in the new track of smart electric vehicles," Avatr operates in a rapidly evolving and competitive landscape, requiring agility and continuous adaptation of strategies.
• Bridging Global Teams: Effectively aligning business and design perspectives across different cultures and time zones, particularly with international teams in China, presents a unique collaboration challenge.
• Translating Vision to Strategy: Transforming the company's vision of "emotional intelligence" and "casual luxury" into concrete, actionable product strategies requires a nuanced understanding of brand identity and market positioning.
• Balancing Innovation and Feasibility: Ensuring that innovative concepts are grounded in market realities and technological feasibility, requiring a delicate balance between creativity and practicality.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Immersion: Gaining deep insights into the cutting edge of smart electric vehicle technology, design trends, and the future of mobility.
• International Business Acumen: Developing skills in global market analysis, cross-cultural communication, and international project management.
• Strategic Portfolio Expansion: Opportunity to work on diverse concept segments, broadening expertise across various aspects of product development.
• Mentorship and Networking: Potential to learn from senior design and strategy leaders within the company and connect with professionals across the global automotive and technology sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant opportunities for growth by tackling the inherent challenges of a dynamic, emerging industry. Candidates will have the chance to develop specialized expertise in SEVs, enhance their international business skills, and contribute to shaping the future of a high-end automotive brand. Continuous learning and adaptation will be key to success.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach developing a product strategy for a new concept segment in the SEV market, considering Avatr's brand philosophy?" (Focus on methodology, market analysis, and alignment with brand values.)
• "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders with differing opinions on product direction. How did you achieve alignment?" (Highlight collaboration, communication, and negotiation skills.)
• "How do you stay informed about emerging trends in automotive technology, design, and consumer behavior?" (Demonstrate proactivity and continuous learning.)
• "What are the key considerations for a business designer when working with international teams, especially in bridging cultural and business practice differences?" (Showcase cross-cultural awareness and collaboration strategies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your research, what do you see as Avatr's unique selling proposition in the SEV market, and how would your role contribute to it?" (Demonstrate understanding of the brand and its market position.)
• "How do you align with the company's emphasis on 'emotional intelligence' and 'casual luxury' in product design and strategy?" (Connect personal values and approach to company philosophy.)
• "Describe your ideal collaborative environment. How do you contribute to a positive and productive team dynamic?" (Assess cultural fit and teamwork capabilities.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a high-level overview of your strategic approach, then dive into specific project examples that best showcase your skills in market analysis, strategy development, and business design.
• Quantify Results: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., market share increase, revenue growth, customer satisfaction improvement).
• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your thought process, methodologies, and how you overcame challenges in each project. Explain the "why" behind your decisions.
• Visual Appeal: Ensure your presentation is visually engaging and reflects a strong understanding of design principles, aligning with Avatr's brand.
• Tailor to Avatr: Frame your examples in the context of Avatr's SEV market, brand values, and the specific requirements of the Specialist Business Designer role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong grasp of product strategy, market analysis, and cross-functional collaboration, all within the context of the automotive industry and Avatr's unique brand identity. The portfolio presentation is a critical opportunity to showcase practical application of these skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Specialist Business Designer position at Avatr GmbH:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Greenhouse job board.
• Portfolio Customization: Carefully curate your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating product strategy, market analysis, and business design expertise, specifically tailoring examples to the automotive or technology sectors where possible.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience, skills, and achievements relevant to this role, using keywords from the job description such as "product strategy," "market intelligence," "business design," and "automotive." Quantify achievements with data.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your strategic thinking process, case study approaches, and how you collaborate with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss your understanding of the SEV market and Avatr's brand vision.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Avatr GmbH, its products (e.g., Avatr 11, Avatr 12), brand philosophy, and recent developments in the SEV market to demonstrate your genuine interest and understanding.

⚠️ 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.