Industrial/product designer : Career development

It is quite possible to progress to senior designer posts in larger organisations where the size of the design department and the variety of specialised roles within it permit such progression - larger automotive and consumer product manufacturers may offer such opportunities. Depending upon the type of experience gained and your personal interests, progression thereafter is sometimes possible to more senior positions, such as creative director, or to a management role, such as new business director or project manager.

A few large consultancies may be able to offer similar opportunities but, typically, opportunities in smaller consultancies will be more limited and progression may only be achieved through movement between employers or even between related fields of design, as opportunities arise.

Professional qualifications, specialist knowledge and breadth of experience will become more important as you climb the promotional ladder. There is a significant demand for experienced designers, especially those with experience in specific areas and a technological background.

Relocation, nationally or internationally, may be required to take advantage of opportunities for promotion within larger multinational organisations. Some designers achieve promotion by moving to non-UK companies, particularly in the USA.