Manager Product Design

Etihad Airways; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading airline in the UAE is searching for a Manager of Product Design to lead the design and development of passenger-facing products. This role involves crafting innovative solutions for cabin interiors, seating, and in-flight amenities while ensuring compliance with aviation standards and aligning with the company's brand identity. Candidates should have a degree in Industrial Design, a strong portfolio, and extensive experience in product design. The position offers a unique opportunity to influence travel experiences.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in product or industrial design, preferably in transportation or aviation.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating design skills and attention to detail.
• In-depth knowledge of materials and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design strategies for passenger-facing products.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to enhance guest experiences.
• Ensure designs meet regulatory and safety standards.

Skills

Design strategy implementation

3D modeling and rendering

Communication skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design or related field

Tools

Rhino

SolidWorks

KeyShot

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

Synopsis

The Manager Product Design is responsible for leading the end-to-end design and development of passenger-facing products across Etihad Airways' travel experience. This includes aircraft cabin interiors, seating, in-flight amenities and products, and ground experience products such as lounges and check-in environments. The role ensures that all designs reflect Etihad’s brand identity, enhance passenger comfort, and meet commercial, operational, and sustainability goals.

Accountabilities

• Develop and implement design strategies for all physical and experiential product touchpoints (e.g., seating, lighting, cabin layouts, onboard amenities, and ground services).
• Lead the industrial/product design process from research and ideation through to prototyping and well as assisting with testing, and final delivery.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Guest Experience, Brand, Engineering, Procurement, and external design agencies and suppliers.
• Translate customer insights and emerging trends into design concepts that drive innovation and deliver world‑class guest experiences.
• Participates in supplier selection and manage relationships to ensure design intent is maintained throughout production and implementation phases.
• Ensure all designs are feasible, cost‑effective, sustainable, and compliant with aviation regulations and safety standards.
• Manage the design approval process, including internal stakeholders and external partners such as OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers).
• Contribute to the continuous evolution of Etihad’s brand language through thoughtful, human‑centered product design.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Design, Product Design, Transportation Design, or a related field. A Master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in product or industrial design, preferably within transportation, aviation, automotive, or luxury sectors.
• Strong portfolio showcasing physical product design, ergonomic understanding, and high attention to aesthetic and functional detail.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling and rendering tools (e.g., Rhino, SolidWorks, KeyShot), and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Experience managing multidisciplinary design projects and coordinating with engineering and manufacturing teams.
• Knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes, and CMF (Color, Material, Finish) strategy.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design rationale to senior stakeholders.