Job Title

Role OverviewThe Exterior Lead will be responsible for end-to-end design, development, and validation of exterior components, with strong focus on bumper systems. The role requires managing full product development lifecycle, leading cross-functional teams, and ensuring delivery of robust, cost-effective, and manufacturable designs aligned with OEM requirements.Key Responsibilities1. Design & Development• Lead design and development of front & rear bumper systems, fascia, grilles, air dams, energy absorbers, carriers, and related exterior trims.• Create/modify 3D CAD models and 2D drawings using CATIA V5/V6 or equivalent tools.• Define engineering specifications, DFMEA, DVP, and design guidelines.• Ensure manufacturability (DFM/DFA) for injection moulding, blow moulding, extrusion, painting, and assembly processes.2. Project Leadership• Lead cross-functional teams (Styling, CAE, Manufacturing, Purchase, Quality) through product development milestones.• Manage design gateways, feasibility reviews, and engineering change management (ECM/ECR).• Drive timing plans, deliverables, BOM creation, and release processes.3. Validation & Testing• Coordinate physical and virtual validation: crash requirements, pedestrian protection, durability, environmental tests, fit & finish, gap/flush analysis.• Work closely with CAE teams for simulations (NVH, crash, impact, thermal).• Support prototype build, tooling development, and PPAP/APQP activities.4. Supplier & Customer Interface• Work with Tier-1/Tier-2 suppliers on feasibility, tooling, material selection, and cost optimisation.• Communicate design status/updates to OEM clients and internal stakeholders.• Ensure alignment with global standards, regulations, and homologation needs.Required Skills & Experience• 7–12+ years in automotive exterior design and development with major experience in bumper systems.• Strong hands-on skills in CATIA surface modelling (Class A/B/C), solid modelling, and packaging.• Deep understanding of plastics design, tooling, tolerances, GD&T, fastening strategies, and assembly systems.• Knowledge of material properties (PP, PC+ABS, TPO, ASA, lightweight materials).• Familiarity with global OEM processes (PPAP, APQP, DFMEA, DVP&R).• Excellent problem-solving, cost optimisation, and stakeholder management skills.