Senior Manager, Exterior Design

At Mercedes-Benz Research & Development North America (MBRDNA), we are committed to delivering world-class automotive technologies that push the boundaries of what is possible. Our teams of highly skilled engineers and designers use cutting-edge software and technology, to enhance the driving experience and reduce environmental impact. 
As a Senior Manager of Exterior Design, you will lead and actively contribute to the development of future vehicle concepts. This role combines strong people leadership with hands-on creative involvement, requiring the ability to both lead a high-performing design team and personally contribute to design execution. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in exterior automotive design, a strong design vision, and a passion for pushing boundaries - while remaining aligned with the Mercedes-Benz brand identity and global design strategy.

Job Responsibilities:

• Direct, mentor, and manage the Creative Design team to create creative, compelling and appropriate design solutions for every project
• Initiate and direct the design development of projects with the Vice President and Management Team
• Participate in the coordination of design project planning and timeline with the Program Manager and participates in design strategic planning with MB headquarters and communicates results to the design staff
• Responsible for making presentations to RD /AD executive management during 2D proposal and model reviews for each project
• Represent MB Design during Press activities and PR inquiries
• Participate in the creative design process to support the team when needed

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Automotive, Product or Industrial Design
• 12+ years of relevant work experience
• Ability to direct and manage the Designer staff and project schedules
• Demonstrated ability to initiative in the design development of projects and ensures a high level of design quality
• Ability to monitor and adjust project team processes as necessary to completion with the Management Team
• Strong presentation skills
• Demonstrated strong leadership skills, as well as, excellent communication skills
• Frequent use of speech, vision, hearing, use of hands for computer use and presentations. Frequent sitting, standing and reaching with hands.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Minimum 12 years of experience in an automotive design studio
• German Language Skills are a plus
• Experience working in a studio with a team oriented atmosphere

The successful candidate’s starting pay will be determined based on a wide range of factors, including, but not limited to, job-related education, skills, and experience, geographic location, and market conditions. The current salary range for this position is as follows and may be modified in the future: $179,000 - $228,200.
#LI-ST1
Why should you apply?Here at MBRDNA, you create digital ecosystems around cars, you design a language between humans and machines, you make a car even more intelligent - you make the new reality for cars. MBRDNA was honored as one of the "Best Places to Work" by BuiltIn in January 2024, a testament to our commitment to creating an exceptional work environment. At each of our offices, we foster a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring every team member can thrive and innovate.
Benefits for Full-Time* Employees Include: • Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and their families • 401(k) with employer match • Up to 18 company-paid holidays • Paid time off (flexible time off for salaried employees), sick time, and parental leave • Tuition assistance program • Wellness/Fitness reimbursement programs * Internships & Contractors excluded from Full-Time Employee benefits

MBRDNA is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) and strongly supports diversity in the workforce. MBRDNA only accepts resumes from approved agencies who have a valid Agency Agreement on file. Please do not forward resumes to our applicant tracking system, MBRDNA employees, or send to any MBRDNA location.  MBRDNA is not responsible for any fees or claims related to receipt of unsolicited resumes.
Mercedes-Benz Research and Development North America, Inc.PRIVACY NOTICE FOR CALIFORNIA RESIDENTShttps://mbrdna.com/california-employee-privacy-notice/