Senior Design Manager (all genders) - Luxury Retail

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager (all genders) - Luxury Retail

Company: LIGANOVA GmbH

Location: Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

Job Type: Festanstellung (Full-time)

Category: Operations - Retail Campaign Management & Production Oversight

Date Posted: October 1, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (4-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the end-to-end execution of creative briefs into tangible, high-aesthetic retail campaigns within the luxury sector, bridging the gap between creative vision and technical realization.

• Manages the technical implementation of window campaigns, ensuring seamless collaboration across prototyping, production, and client-facing teams.

• Drives the definition of production processes, material selection, and the creation of detailed technical documentation, all while adhering to strict budget and timeline constraints.

• Upholds quality standards through rigorous quality gates in production and installation, providing expert guidance and persuasive client presentations.

• Acts as the primary technical liaison for clients, conducting site visits and supervising on-site installations to ensure brand integrity and aesthetic excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong blend of creative understanding and technical project management expertise, with a specific focus on the luxury retail environment. It bridges design, production, and client relations, demanding a proactive and detail-oriented approach to campaign execution. The emphasis on "sustainable Retail Kampagnen" suggests a need for awareness of eco-friendly materials and processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Campaign Translation & Execution: Translate creative briefing documents into executable, sustainable retail campaign plans, with a particular focus on window displays and in-store activations for the luxury sector.

• Technical Production Oversight: Manage the holistic technical realization of campaigns, from initial concept to final installation, ensuring high aesthetic standards are met.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Foster and maintain close, interdisciplinary communication with prototyping teams, production departments, and client representatives to ensure project alignment and successful outcomes.

• Process Definition & Material Selection: Define production processes in collaboration with the internal production team, select appropriate materials, and create comprehensive technical drawings and production documents.

• Budget & Timeline Management: Ensure all production and installation activities are completed within allocated budgets and strict timelines.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Implement and manage "Quality Gates" at critical junctures in production and setup phases, ensuring adherence to design specifications and quality benchmarks.

• Client Presentations & Stakeholder Management: Conceptualize, prepare, and deliver compelling client presentations for prototyping, visual merchandising, and pre-assembly stages, effectively communicating design intent and technical feasibility.

• On-Site Supervision & Location Assessment: Conduct site visits to evaluate installation feasibility, supervise the setup of window displays and retail environments, and serve as the on-site technical point of contact.

• Innovation & Sustainability Integration: Actively seek and integrate innovative solutions and sustainable practices into campaign design and production processes, aligning with the company's "Green Mindset."

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for a candidate who can manage multiple workstreams simultaneously, from early-stage technical planning to hands-on on-site execution. The emphasis on "Quality Gates" and "Client Presentations" indicates a need for strong process control and communication skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A degree in a technical or design-related field is required.

• Degrees in Theater or Stage Design are also highly valued, indicating a strong understanding of spatial design, materials, and construction for impactful visual displays. Experience:

• Minimum of 4-5 years of relevant professional experience.

• Prior experience in prototyping and production is highly desirable, demonstrating a practical understanding of manufacturing and build processes.

• Experience in managing creative briefs, particularly concerning technical specifications, composition, color palettes, materials, finishes, and feasibility assessments. Required Skills:

• Technical Design & Documentation: Ability to create detailed technical drawings and production documents.

• 3D Software Proficiency: Expertise in at least one 3D modeling or visualization program.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Strong working knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc., for design and presentation collateral.

• MS Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in PowerPoint for client presentations and Excel for budget tracking and data management.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to manage timelines, resources, and deliverables effectively.

• Material Science & Selection: Knowledge of various materials suitable for retail displays, considering aesthetics, durability, and sustainability.

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

• On-Site Installation Supervision: Comfort and capability in managing and overseeing physical installations.

• Detail Orientation: A keen eye for detail, ensuring high standards of execution and finish.

• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and resolve technical and logistical challenges proactively.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience specifically within the luxury retail sector.

• Familiarity with visual merchandising principles and their technical execution.

• Understanding of sustainability practices and materials in design and production.

• Experience with theater or stage construction techniques.

• Knowledge of budget management principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level and specific technical proficiencies suggest a role that demands both creative flair and practical, hands-on execution capabilities. The emphasis on 3D software and Adobe Suite points to a need for strong visual communication skills, while MS Office proficiency is crucial for project and budget management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Technical Execution Case Studies: Showcase projects where creative concepts were translated into technically feasible and aesthetically successful retail campaigns or installations. Highlight the challenges faced and solutions implemented.

• Production Process Documentation: Include examples of technical drawings, production plans, or material specification sheets you have created. Demonstrate your understanding of production workflows.

• 3D Visualization Examples: Present examples of 3D models or renderings that effectively communicate design intent, spatial arrangements, or product mock-ups.

• Client Presentation Samples: Provide samples of client presentations you have developed, demonstrating your ability to articulate design concepts, technical details, and project proposals clearly and persuasively.

• Budget & Timeline Management Evidence: If possible, include examples or descriptions of how you have managed project budgets and timelines, showcasing your organizational and financial acumen.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Document your approach to defining and optimizing production workflows for retail campaigns, from initial briefing to final installation.

• Material Sourcing & Specification: Illustrate your process for selecting and specifying materials, considering factors like aesthetics, cost, durability, and sustainability.

• Quality Control Protocols: Describe your methods for implementing and managing quality control at various stages of production and installation.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for this role, as it will serve as tangible proof of the candidate's ability to bridge creative vision with technical execution in a high-stakes luxury environment. The focus should be on demonstrating practical skills in design, production management, and client communication.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior Design Manager role with 4-5 years of experience in Stuttgart, Germany, the estimated annual gross salary range is €60,000 - €80,000. This estimate considers the luxury retail sector, the specific responsibilities, and the cost of living in Stuttgart. Benefits:

• Inclusion and Diversity Culture: A workplace that actively celebrates uniqueness and promotes a culture of inclusion.

• Sustainability Initiatives: Opportunities to contribute to and be part of innovative sustainability efforts, including a "Green Board" and "Green Campaign Cycle" initiatives.

• International Exposure: Networking and regular exchange opportunities with colleagues across LIGANOVA's international offices (Stuttgart, Berlin, Amsterdam).

• Professional Development: A role that offers hands-on experience in a dynamic luxury retail environment, fostering skill development in design, production, and client management.

• Creative Environment: Work within a company that values creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. While the role requires on-site presence and potential travel for installations, there may be some flexibility in daily scheduling, though this should be confirmed during the interview process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar roles in Germany, factoring in the company's industry and the seniority of the position. Benefits are drawn directly from the provided company culture description, highlighting aspects that would appeal to professionals seeking a values-driven and internationally connected workplace.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Retail / Experiential Marketing. LIGANOVA GmbH specializes in creating unique retail experiences and campaigns for high-end brands, focusing on physical installations, visual merchandising, and brand storytelling. The company operates at the intersection of design, production, and marketing for the luxury sector.

Company Size: LIGANOVA GmbH is part of a growing organization with offices in Stuttgart, Berlin, and Amsterdam. While the exact employee count isn't specified, the presence of multiple offices and diverse initiatives suggests a medium-sized, dynamic company.

Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company's established presence with multiple international offices indicates a history of growth and successful project delivery in the luxury market.

Team Structure:

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The Senior Design Manager will work closely with Project Management, Prototyping, Production teams, and directly with client representatives.

• Reporting: The role likely reports to a Head of Design, Creative Director, or a similar senior leadership position within the design or project management division.

• Specialization: The team is likely composed of specialists in design, production, project management, and client relations, all focused on delivering high-quality luxury retail experiences.

Methodology:

• Creative-to-Technical Translation: A core methodology involves effectively translating abstract creative briefs into concrete, technically executable designs and production plans.

• Integrated Production Process: Emphasis on a seamless workflow from design conception through prototyping, material selection, production, and final on-site installation.

• Client-Centric Approach: Strong focus on understanding client needs, presenting solutions effectively, and managing client expectations throughout the project lifecycle.

• Quality & Aesthetics Focus: Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of design, craftsmanship, and aesthetic appeal, crucial for the luxury market.

Company Website: https://liganova.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: LIGANOVA operates in a niche but high-impact segment of the retail industry. The company culture emphasizes creativity, collaboration, and a commitment to sustainability, which are key selling points for potential employees. The "all genders" in the job title reflects a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level position, indicating a significant degree of autonomy and responsibility. The role requires not just execution but also strategic input on production processes, material selection, and client engagement. It is a pivotal role for managing complex, high-visibility projects.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director-level or VP-level executive within the design, creative, or project management departments. This structure allows for strategic guidance while providing the autonomy needed to manage projects effectively.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and tangible impact on brand perception and customer experience within the luxury retail space. Successful campaign execution directly contributes to sales, brand loyalty, and the overall success of client campaigns. The emphasis on sustainability also positions the role to influence responsible business practices.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance into roles such as Creative Director, Head of Design, or lead larger, more complex international projects.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in luxury retail campaign strategy, sustainable design practices, or advanced production techniques.

• Client Relationship Management: Develop stronger client-facing skills, potentially leading to account management or client strategy roles.

• Process Improvement: Opportunity to drive significant improvements in LIGANOVA's campaign production workflows and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Design Manager role is a critical stepping stone for individuals aiming for leadership positions in experiential design, retail marketing, and brand management within the luxury sector. The company's international presence offers a broad scope for career expansion.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Stuttgart, Germany, at LIGANOVA's HQ. The description emphasizes a vibrant and collaborative office culture, fostering inclusion and diversity. The presence of international offices suggests a modern, potentially open-plan workspace designed for collaboration.

Office Location(s):

• Stuttgart, Germany: Herdweg 59, 70174 Stuttgart. This location serves as the company's headquarters.

• Other offices are located in Berlin and Amsterdam, facilitating international exchange. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect an environment where cross-functional teams work together closely on client projects. The emphasis on "networking and regular exchange" points to a dynamic and interactive workspace.

• Tools & Technology: Access to necessary design software (3D, Adobe Creative Suite), MS Office, and potentially project management tools. The company likely invests in technology to support its creative and production processes.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with design, production, project management teams, and clients, both internally and externally.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with standard working hours, but the nature of campaign execution and on-site installations may require flexibility and occasional overtime, particularly during critical project phases or travel. The company culture appears to support work-life balance, but specific demands of the luxury retail calendar should be anticipated.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is designed to foster creativity and collaboration, essential for the high-touch nature of luxury retail campaign development. The Stuttgart HQ is the primary base, but international collaboration is an integral part of the role's experience.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and experience.

• First Interview: Likely with the hiring manager (Lhea, Team Leader People) or a senior member of the design/project management team. Focus on your background, motivation, and initial understanding of the role and company.

• Technical/Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through your portfolio. Be prepared to discuss specific projects, your role, the technical challenges, creative solutions, and the outcomes. Expect questions about your 3D software skills, Adobe Suite proficiency, and experience with production processes.

• Case Study/Practical Exercise (Potential): You might be asked to complete a small design or problem-solving exercise related to a retail campaign concept or a technical challenge.

• Final Interview: Potentially with higher leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your ability to translate creative briefs into technical realities, especially for retail or experiential campaigns.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions, responsibilities, and decision-making processes within each project.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Emphasize your proficiency in 3D modeling, technical drawing, and rendering. Include examples of how you've used these to solve problems or communicate ideas.

• Demonstrate Process: Explain your workflow from initial concept to final execution. Discuss material selection, production considerations, and any quality control measures.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, mention the success of your projects, client feedback, or any measurable impact (e.g., brand visibility, customer engagement).

• Tailor to Luxury: If possible, include projects that demonstrate an understanding of luxury aesthetics, brand storytelling, and high-end presentation.

• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your approach to sustainability, budget management, client presentations, and on-site installations.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Luxury Context: Research current trends in luxury retail, visual merchandising, and experiential marketing.

• Familiarize with LIGANOVA: Review their website and recent campaigns to understand their style, client base, and approach.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Be ready to discuss how you would approach common technical challenges in retail installations (e.g., site constraints, material limitations, assembly logistics).

• Sustainability Integration: Think about how you would incorporate sustainable practices into campaign design and production.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on practical skills and portfolio demonstration. Candidates should prepare to articulate their technical expertise and creative problem-solving abilities in the context of luxury retail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling/Visualization Software: Proficiency in at least one industry-standard program (e.g., Cinema 4D, 3ds Max, Blender, SketchUp) for creating spatial designs, mock-ups, and technical renderings.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for graphic design, image manipulation, layout, and presentation materials (e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, potentially After Effects for motion graphics).

• MS Office Suite:

  • PowerPoint: For creating professional and persuasive client presentations.
  • Excel: For budget tracking, data analysis, and creating production schedules.
  • Word: For technical documentation and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned as a primary tool, the role requires managing budgets and timelines, which implies some use of project management or reporting tools. Candidates might use Excel or dedicated PM software for this. CRM & Automation:

• The role involves client interaction and project management, so familiarity with CRM systems might be beneficial for understanding client project history, though direct CRM management is unlikely to be a core responsibility. Automation might be relevant in terms of workflow optimization within design and production processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design and visualization tools, reflecting the core nature of the role. Proficiency in 3D software and the Adobe Creative Suite is paramount, supported by strong skills in Microsoft Office for project management and client communication.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A strong drive to push creative boundaries and develop novel solutions for retail experiences.

• Craftsmanship & Detail: A deep appreciation for quality, precision, and high aesthetic standards in all aspects of work.

• Sustainability: A commitment to environmentally conscious practices in design and production, actively seeking greener alternatives.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief in the power of interdisciplinary cooperation to achieve the best outcomes.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building strong, lasting relationships.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary: Expect a highly collaborative environment where designers, production specialists, project managers, and client managers work in close partnership.

• Open Communication: Encouragement of open dialogue, feedback exchange, and constructive criticism to refine designs and processes.

• Proactive Engagement: A culture that values individuals who take initiative, share ideas, and actively contribute to team goals.

• Shared Vision: A collective effort to align on project goals and ensure that all team members are working towards a unified vision for campaign success.

📝 Enhancement Note: LIGANOVA's culture appears to be a blend of creative passion, technical rigor, and a modern, responsible business ethos. The emphasis on "Come as you are!" and diversity suggests an inclusive and accepting workplace, while "Green Mindset" points to a commitment to sustainability.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Creative Vision and Technical Feasibility: The primary challenge is translating ambitious creative concepts into practical, cost-effective, and technically sound retail installations, especially within the demanding luxury market.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of creative teams, production departments, and demanding luxury brand clients requires strong negotiation and communication skills.

• Adhering to Strict Deadlines and Budgets: The fast-paced nature of retail campaigns, particularly for luxury brands, often involves tight timelines and budget constraints that require meticulous planning and execution.

• Ensuring Global Consistency (if applicable): For international brands, maintaining consistent quality and brand representation across different locations can be a significant logistical and technical challenge.

• Integrating Sustainability: Effectively incorporating sustainable materials and practices without compromising on the high aesthetic and quality standards expected in luxury retail.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deep Dive into Luxury Retail: Gain unparalleled experience in the specific demands and nuances of the luxury brand sector.

• Advanced Production Techniques: Opportunities to learn about and implement cutting-edge prototyping and production methods.

• Sustainability in Design: Develop expertise in sustainable materials, manufacturing processes, and eco-friendly campaign design.

• Client Relationship Management: Enhance skills in client communication, presentation, and strategic partnership development.

• International Project Exposure: Work with a diverse range of clients and potentially contribute to projects across LIGANOVA's international offices.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex challenges in a high-stakes industry. The company's focus on sustainability and innovation provides a fertile ground for developing specialized skills.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to translate a highly creative, abstract brief into a tangible design and production plan. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your process, technical problem-solving, and stakeholder management.)

• "How do you ensure the highest aesthetic and quality standards are met in a production environment, especially for luxury clients?" (Discuss your approach to quality gates, material selection, and oversight.)

• "Walk me through your process for creating technical drawings and production documents. What key information do you ensure is included?" (Demonstrate your technical documentation skills and attention to detail.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about LIGANOVA and our work in the luxury retail sector?" (Research their portfolio, client list, and values like sustainability and innovation.)

• "How do you approach incorporating sustainability into design and production processes?" (Connect this to their "Green Mindset" and "Green Board" initiatives.)

• "Describe your experience working in a cross-functional team. How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration?" (Highlight your interdisciplinary approach.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, present a narrative: the brief, your role, the challenges, your creative and technical solutions, the execution, and the outcome.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly point out where you used 3D software, Adobe Suite, and your technical drawing skills. Show the evolution from concept to final product.

• Focus on Process: Explain your workflow, how you managed production, materials, and quality control. This is crucial for demonstrating your operational capabilities.

• Quantify Success: If possible, mention client feedback, project impact, or budget/timeline adherence.

• Be Ready for Detail: Anticipate deep dives into specific technical aspects of your projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the luxury retail context, a robust technical skillset, and proven project management capabilities. The interview will likely assess your ability to be both a creative problem-solver and a meticulous executor.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on goingbeyond.jobs.personio.com.

• Portfolio Curation: Select 3-5 of your most relevant projects that showcase your expertise in translating creative briefs into technical realities for retail campaigns. Ensure these highlight your 3D modeling, technical drawing, and production oversight skills.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize experience in design management, technical production, luxury retail, and proficiency with relevant software (3D, Adobe Suite, MS Office). Quantify achievements where possible, especially regarding budget and timeline management.

• Company & Role Research: Thoroughly research LIGANOVA GmbH, their recent campaigns, client portfolio, and company values (especially sustainability and diversity). Understand their position in the luxury retail market.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice articulating your experience and portfolio projects clearly and concisely, focusing on your problem-solving approach, technical execution, and client communication skills. Be ready to discuss your understanding of luxury aesthetics and sustainable practices.

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

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