(Junior) Design Manager (all genders) – Luxury Retail

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: (Junior) Design Manager – Luxury Retail

Company: LIGANOVA GmbH

Location: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Operations (Retail Campaign Management, Design Operations)

Date Posted: September 7, 2026

Experience Level: 0-2 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the transition of creative briefs into executable retail campaigns within the luxury sector, ensuring alignment with project management objectives.

• Manage the technical production and implementation of window campaigns with a high aesthetic standard, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration with prototyping, production, and client teams.

• Define production processes, select materials, and develop technical drawings and documentation while adhering to budget and timeline constraints.

• Ensure quality control at key production and setup stages, provide on-site guidance for production, and deliver compelling client presentations for prototyping, visual merchandising, and pre-assembly.

• Conduct site visits and oversee the installation of shop windows, assessing technical feasibility and maintaining close client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges creative design with operational execution in a luxury retail context. While the title is "Design Manager," the core responsibilities lean heavily into project management, production oversight, and client communication, aligning it with operational aspects of GTM and retail execution rather than pure product design. The "Junior" designation suggests a focus on learning and supporting senior initiatives, with an emphasis on technical execution and process adherence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Translate creative briefing documents into tangible, sustainable retail campaigns for the luxury sector in close coordination with Project Management.

• Drive the technical execution of window campaigns, ensuring high aesthetic standards and seamless integration with prototyping, production, and client stakeholders.

• Define and manage production processes, including material selection, technical drawing creation, and the development of comprehensive production documentation, all within allocated budgets and timelines.

• Conduct and oversee Quality Gates during production and set-up phases, providing on-site production guidance and developing/delivering persuasive client presentations for prototyping, visual merchandising, and pre-assembly stages.

• Perform site inspections for campaign locations and manage the installation of shop window displays, verifying technical feasibility and maintaining consistent communication with clients.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a critical operational function: ensuring creative visions are realized efficiently and effectively within production constraints. This involves detailed process management, technical specification, and stakeholder coordination, all crucial for successful Go-To-Market (GTM) execution in retail.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in a technical or design-related field.

Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience in 3D design, ideally with exposure to prototyping and production processes.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in at least one 3D design or visualization software.

• Strong command of the Adobe Creative Suite and MS Office (PowerPoint, Excel).

• Experience in handling creative briefs, specifically translating them into technical descriptions, compositions, color palettes, material choices, finishes, and feasibility assessments.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in both English and German.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and responsibly, with a keen eye for detail and a high standard for design.

• Motivation to travel and support installations on-site. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with prototyping and production workflows.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles and execution.

• Knowledge of sustainability practices and innovations in material usage and campaign execution.

• Understanding of project management methodologies and budget adherence.

• Interest in craftsmanship and innovative techniques within the luxury retail space.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for both 3D design software and Adobe Creative Suite indicates a need for candidates who can bridge conceptual design with practical, technical output. The emphasis on translating creative briefs into technical specifications points to a role that requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, essential for operationalizing creative concepts.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of one project demonstrating the successful transition from a creative brief to a technical design or production plan, highlighting problem-solving and feasibility considerations.

• Include examples of technical drawings, 3D renderings, or prototypes that illustrate attention to detail in composition, materials, and finishes.

• Present documentation of a production process managed or significantly contributed to, emphasizing workflow, material selection, and adherence to budget/timeline.

• Demonstrate experience in client presentations, particularly for design concepts or project proposals, highlighting communication clarity and persuasive articulation of technical and aesthetic elements. Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow design or optimization for 3D design or production processes.

• Documentation of material selection rationale, considering aesthetics, sustainability, and production feasibility.

• Case studies detailing the management of Quality Gates within a production or installation lifecycle.

• Evidence of developing and presenting technical specifications or production documents for client or internal review.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a junior role, the portfolio should emphasize foundational skills and potential. The focus should be on demonstrating a strong understanding of design principles, technical execution, and the ability to learn and apply production processes within the luxury retail context. Showing a proactive approach to problem-solving and a keen interest in sustainability will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the Junior Design Manager title, 1-2 years of experience, and location in Stuttgart, Germany, a competitive annual salary range is estimated between €40,000 and €55,000. This estimate considers the luxury retail sector's compensation standards and the cost of living in Stuttgart.

Benefits:

• Diversity & Inclusion: A culture that celebrates uniqueness and promotes inclusion, fostering a sense of belonging.

• Sustainability Focus: Involvement in innovative solutions and Green Board initiatives aimed at increasing sustainability within the office and in client-facing "Green Campaigns."

• International Collaboration: Opportunities for networking and regular exchange with colleagues across LIGANOVA's offices in Stuttgart, Berlin, and Amsterdam, promoting cross-functional learning.

• Professional Development: Encouragement to "create the best version of yourself," suggesting opportunities for skill development and career growth within the company.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week, with the expectation of flexibility to support on-site installations and client meetings as needed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for junior roles in design and operations within Germany, specifically in the Stuttgart region. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the company's internal compensation structure. The benefits highlight a company culture that values employee well-being, environmental responsibility, and global collaboration, which are increasingly important factors for operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Retail / Experiential Marketing / Retail Design. LIGANOVA operates at the intersection of luxury brand storytelling and physical retail experiences, focusing on creating impactful campaigns and installations.

Company Size: LIGANOVA is a growing company with offices in Stuttgart, Berlin, and Amsterdam, indicating a medium-sized enterprise that offers the agility of a smaller organization with the reach of an international one.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated, the company's presence across multiple European cities suggests a well-established entity with a history of successful project execution.

Team Structure:

• The role likely sits within a broader Project Management or Creative Operations team, working closely with Project Managers and potentially collaborating with dedicated teams for Prototyping and Production.

• Reporting is expected to be to a senior Design Manager, Head of Operations, or a similar leadership role responsible for overseeing retail campaign execution.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a cornerstone, involving close ties with internal production teams, external vendors, and client representatives to ensure seamless campaign delivery. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Campaign Translation: Utilizing insights from creative briefs to inform technical specifications and material choices for effective retail campaigns.

• Agile Project Execution: Employing flexible planning and execution strategies to manage dynamic project requirements, budget adherence, and timeline constraints in a fast-paced luxury environment.

• Sustainability Integration: Proactively incorporating sustainable practices and materials into campaign design and production processes, aligning with industry trends and client expectations for "Green Transformation."

Company Website: http://liganova.com

📝 Enhancement Note: LIGANOVA's focus on luxury retail campaigns suggests a high standard for quality, detail, and client service. The company's international presence and emphasis on sustainability indicate a forward-thinking approach to operations and marketing. Understanding this context is crucial for candidates to align their skills and aspirations with the company's strategic direction.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is designated as a "Junior" role, indicating an entry to mid-level opportunity within the operations and design management spectrum of the luxury retail sector. It is designed for individuals with foundational technical and design skills seeking to develop expertise in campaign execution and project oversight.

Reporting Structure: The Junior Design Manager will likely report to a Senior Design Manager, a Project Director, or a Head of Operations. This structure provides a clear line of mentorship and oversight, crucial for skill development and performance management in a junior capacity.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the tangible execution of luxury brand campaigns, influencing customer perception and brand experience at the point of sale. Successful management of technical production, quality, and timely installation contributes directly to brand integrity and client satisfaction, underpinning the company's revenue generation through effective retail presence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deep expertise in specific areas of retail campaign production, material science for luxury applications, or sustainable design implementation within retail environments.

• Project Leadership: Progress to managing larger, more complex campaigns independently, taking on greater responsibility for budget, timeline, and client relationships.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Gain exposure to broader aspects of retail operations, visual merchandising strategy, or client account management through active collaboration and demonstrated performance.

• Continuous Learning: Benefit from the company's emphasis on innovation and sustainability, potentially leading to certifications or specialized training in emerging technologies or eco-friendly practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Junior" title suggests a structured growth path. Candidates should look for opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, take on increasing responsibility, and contribute to impactful projects. The company's emphasis on "creating the best version of yourself" implies a commitment to employee development, which is a key attraction for ambitious operations professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Stuttgart, Germany, and is described as an on-site position. This suggests a professional office environment conducive to collaborative work, client meetings, and hands-on involvement with design and production planning.

Office Location(s): The primary office is in Stuttgart, with other company locations in Berlin and Amsterdam. This offers potential for cross-office collaboration and exposure to different market dynamics within Europe.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The Stuttgart office likely serves as a central point for design and project management teams, fostering an environment where ideas are shared and challenges are tackled collaboratively.

• Tool & Technology Access: Expect access to industry-standard design software (3D, Adobe Suite), office productivity tools (MS Office), and potentially project management software, supporting efficient workflow and communication.

• Interdisciplinary Interaction: The role necessitates frequent interaction with prototyping specialists, production teams, and project managers, creating a dynamic workspace where diverse skill sets converge to bring campaigns to life.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is likely Monday to Friday, approximately 40 hours per week. However, the nature of retail campaign installations may require occasional flexibility, including early mornings, late evenings, or weekend work during critical installation periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement underscores the practical, hands-on nature of this role, which involves direct collaboration and oversight. Candidates who thrive in a team-oriented, office-based environment with opportunities for direct interaction and problem-solving will find this setting suitable.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application, focusing on your resume, cover letter (if applicable), and portfolio to assess foundational skills and experience against the job requirements.

• Technical/Design Assessment: An interview, potentially including a practical exercise or case study, to evaluate your proficiency in 3D design software, Adobe Creative Suite, and your ability to translate creative briefs into technical specifications. Expect questions about your approach to material selection and production feasibility.

• Project Discussion: A deeper dive into your portfolio, discussing specific projects, your role, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved, particularly regarding production and client interaction.

• Cultural Fit & Team Interview: An interview with the hiring manager (Lhea) and potentially other team members to assess your communication skills, collaborative approach, understanding of luxury retail, and alignment with LIGANOVA's values (Diversity, Sustainability, Internationality).

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Select 2-3 projects that best demonstrate your experience in 3D design, technical drawing, production considerations, and client presentations, especially if they relate to retail or experiential environments.

• Showcase the Process: For each project, clearly outline the creative brief, your specific contributions, the technical challenges you addressed, your solutions (e.g., material choices, design adaptations), and the final outcome. Highlight any involvement in prototyping or production coordination.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): While challenging for a junior role, attempt to quantify any positive impacts, such as meeting budget/timeline goals, successful client feedback, or innovative material usage.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Ensure your portfolio visually demonstrates your proficiency with the required software (3D modeling, Adobe Suite) through clear renderings, technical drawings, or mock-ups.

• Address Sustainability: If any projects involved sustainable materials or practices, make sure to highlight this, aligning with LIGANOVA's company values.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Problem-Solving: Be prepared for hypothetical scenarios where you might need to adapt a design due to material constraints, budget limitations, or on-site installation challenges. Practice articulating your thought process for finding practical solutions.

• Client Presentation Simulation: Think about how you would present a design concept to a client, focusing on clarity, persuasion, and addressing potential concerns about feasibility and aesthetics.

• Understanding Luxury Retail: Familiarize yourself with current trends in luxury retail, visual merchandising, and experiential marketing. Be ready to discuss what makes a successful luxury campaign.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a practical assessment of skills alongside cultural fit. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates process, technical execution, and problem-solving is paramount. Candidates should prepare to discuss their contributions to projects in detail and demonstrate an understanding of the luxury retail landscape and LIGANOVA's operational approach.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Design/Visualization Software: Proficiency in at least one such as Cinema 4D, Rhino, SketchUp, Blender, or similar, for creating technical designs and renderings.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for graphic design, image editing, and presentation preparation (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• MS Office Suite: Strong command of PowerPoint for client presentations and Excel for data management, budgeting, and technical documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated as primary tools for this role, understanding how design specifications translate into production costs and timelines may involve basic data analysis using Excel. Familiarity with project management software that includes reporting features would be beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM systems is not directly required for this role, but an understanding of how client relationship management impacts project execution is valuable. Automation tools are not specified, suggesting the focus is on manual design and production process management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is focused on design execution and presentation. Candidates should ensure their listed skills and portfolio examples clearly showcase proficiency in these core tools, as they are fundamental to the role's responsibilities.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Detail-Oriented Excellence: A commitment to precision in technical drawings, material specifications, and execution, reflecting the high standards of the luxury sector.

• Collaborative Innovation: A willingness to work closely with diverse teams (Project Management, Prototyping, Production) to find creative and feasible solutions for complex campaign challenges.

• Sustainability Commitment: An active interest and contribution towards developing and implementing eco-friendly practices in campaign design and production.

• Client-Centricity: A focus on understanding and meeting client needs through clear communication, persuasive presentations, and successful on-site installations.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Synergy: The team operates through close collaboration between creative visionaries, technical experts, and production specialists, ensuring a holistic approach to campaign realization.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: An environment where constructive feedback is exchanged to refine designs, optimize production processes, and enhance client presentations.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of insights on new materials, technologies, and sustainable practices to foster continuous learning and operational efficiency across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: LIGANOVA's culture appears to blend creative ambition with operational rigor, emphasizing teamwork and a commitment to sustainability. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to integrate into a collaborative environment, contribute to a shared vision, and align with the company's core values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Creative Vision and Technical Reality: Effectively translating high-concept luxury designs into producible, budget-conscious, and time-bound retail installations requires strong problem-solving skills.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Coordinating effectively with internal production teams, external vendors, and demanding luxury clients necessitates excellent communication and negotiation abilities.

• On-Site Installation Logistics: Overseeing installations in various locations, potentially under tight deadlines and challenging site conditions, requires adaptability and hands-on problem-solving.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Keeping pace with evolving luxury retail aesthetics, innovative materials, and sustainability best practices in a dynamic industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Technical Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in advanced 3D modeling, material science relevant to luxury goods, or sustainable production techniques.

• Project Management Skills: Development in managing budgets, timelines, and stakeholder expectations for increasingly complex campaigns.

• Client Presentation Acumen: Refining skills in crafting and delivering compelling presentations that articulate design rationale and operational plans to high-profile clients.

• Sustainability Leadership: Contributing to and potentially leading initiatives related to the company's "Green Transformation" efforts within retail campaigns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for roles that bridge creative and operational domains. Candidates who view these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning will be well-suited for this position. The company's focus on sustainability and innovation provides a fertile ground for professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a complex creative brief into technical specifications. What were the key considerations, and how did you ensure feasibility?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and technical translation skills.)

• "Imagine a client requests a design element that is technically challenging or over budget. How would you approach this situation, considering both aesthetic and operational constraints?" (Demonstrate your ability to balance creativity with practicality and client management.)

• "How do you ensure quality control throughout the production and installation process for a high-end retail campaign?" (Highlight your understanding of quality gates, attention to detail, and proactive problem-solving.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about LIGANOVA's work in the luxury retail sector and our commitment to sustainability?" (Showcase your research and alignment with company values.)

• "How do you envision contributing to a diverse and inclusive team environment?" (Reflect on your collaborative style and appreciation for different perspectives.)

• "How do you stay updated on design trends, new materials, and sustainable practices relevant to retail?" (Demonstrate your proactive approach to learning and industry awareness.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, guide the interviewer through the problem, your solution, and the outcome, emphasizing your specific contributions and the lessons learned.

• Highlight Technical Execution: Visually showcase your technical drawings, 3D renderings, or prototypes, explaining the design decisions and production considerations.

• Emphasize Collaboration: Discuss how you worked with project managers, production teams, or clients, demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively and integrate into a team.

• Connect to LIGANOVA: Subtly weave in how your skills and experiences align with LIGANOVA's focus on luxury, sustainability, and operational excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of creative understanding, technical proficiency, operational awareness, and strong communication skills. Candidates should be ready to articulate their thought processes and demonstrate how they can contribute to successful luxury retail campaign execution.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on join.com.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight 2-3 relevant projects demonstrating your 3D design, technical drawing, production process understanding, and client presentation skills, with a focus on luxury retail or similar environments.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your 1+ year of experience in 3D design, technical fields, and any relevant production or prototyping work. Use keywords from the job description such as "3D Design," "Technical Drawing," "Production," "Adobe Creative Suite," and "Luxury Retail."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your project experience, especially how you translate creative briefs into technical realities, manage production aspects, and present to clients. Be prepared to discuss your interest in sustainability and innovation.

• Company Research: Thoroughly review the LIGANOVA GmbH website (liganova.com) to understand their portfolio, client work, and company values (Diversity, Sustainability, Internationality). Prepare specific questions that demonstrate your engagement and interest.

⚠️ 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.