Job Title

Design ManagerLocation: AylmerSalary: CAD $125,000 $150,000 + Benefits + RRSP MatchingLead the Future of DesignOur client, a well-established organization in the automotive manufacturing and industrial solutions sector, is seeking an experienced Design Manager to lead and strengthen their Design function. This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who excels at managing teams, improving processes, driving accountability, and ensuring consistent design throughput.This opportunity is ideal for a candidate who is more focused on leadership, team development, and operational performance rather than being heavily hands-on in day-to-day design execution.You will lead a growing design organization responsible for delivering custom manufacturing and packaging solutions to customers across automotive, industrial, and related sectors.Key ResponsibilitiesLeadership & Team ManagementLead a team of 46 Design Team Leads, along with the Design CoordinatorDrive team performance through coaching, mentoring, accountability, and development planningConduct one-on-ones, performance reviews, succession planning, and capability buildingBalance workloads and priorities across multiple customer accounts and active projectsOperational ExcellenceOwn design throughput and speed-to-market for all deliverablesIdentify and remove bottlenecks through workflow improvements, better prioritization, and stronger team structureImprove collaboration between Design, Production, Purchasing, Estimating, Quality, and Project teamsEnsure smooth handoffs from concept through production releaseProcess & Systems LeadershipStandardize design operations including CAD/PDM governance, revision control, BOM accuracy, and release readinessImprove processes through templates, stage gates, libraries, automation, and best practicesLead adoption of digital tools and AI-enabled workflow improvementsCustomer & Business SupportParticipate in customer meetings, technical reviews, and project planning discussionsTranslate customer requirements into clear execution plans for the design teamEnsure design outputs align with timelines, budgets, and manufacturing requirementsQualifications7+ years of progressive design experience in a manufacturing environment2+ years of people leadership experience, formally or informallyStrong leadership skills with a passion for coaching and developing teamsExperience in automotive manufacturing, metal fabrication, custom equipment, packaging, racking, or similar industries preferredStrong understanding of manufacturing processes, DFM, BOMs, tolerances, and production workflowsProficiency with SolidWorks required; CATIA considered an assetExperience improving systems, processes, and operational efficiencyComfortable leading change, digital transformation, and AI adoption initiativesDegree or diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Design, Engineering Technology, or related field preferredWhy JoinJoin a stable and growing organization with a strong reputation in its marketLead a critical function where your leadership directly impacts growth and customer satisfactionOpportunity to modernize systems and build a high-performing teamExposure to a diverse customer base and complex manufacturing projectsCompetitive compensation packageBenefits and RRSP matching programCompensationCAD $125,000 $150,000 based on experience, leadership background, and qualifications.Apply TodayIf you are a strong people leader with manufacturing design experience and are ready to make a measurable impact, we encourage you to apply.