Product Development Designer at Bobu Africa

We are now seeking a passionate Product Development Designer to lead us in the creative journey from concept to finished product, working hand-in-hand with artisans to transform African traditions into contemporary, globally appealing décor.

Key Responsibilities.

• Product Design & Development.
• Conceptualize from scratch and design handmade décor products aligned with brand identity and market demand.
• Translate design ideas into technical sketches, prototypes, and production-ready samples.
• Artisan Collaboration.
• Work closely with artisans to guide product creation, ensuring quality, consistency, and authenticity.
•  Develop and document SOPs for production processes.
• Market Research & Trends.
• Research global design trends, hospitality needs, and consumer preferences to inspire new collections.
•  Adapt traditional techniques into modern, functional, and export-ready designs.
• Quality Assurance.
• Ensure each product meets high standards of craftsmanship, durability, and sustainability.
• Oversee sampling, testing, and refinement stages.
• Project & Production Management.
• Coordinate timelines, materials sourcing, and production processes.
• Collaborate with the marketing and sales teams to align design with customer expectations.
• Innovation & Sustainability.
• Drive design innovation while promoting eco-friendly practices.
• Explore alternative materials that reflect African heritage, nature and wildlife while appealing to global markets.

Qualifications & Skills.

• Degree in Product Design, Industrial Design, Interior Design, or a related field.
• 2–4 years of experience in product development, preferably in crafts, décor, or handmade industries.
• Strong portfolio showcasing creative design and product development skills.
• Proficiency in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, SketchUp/AutoCAD etc with skills for 2D/3D modeling, technical drawings, and product visualization.
• Knowledge of materials, finishes, and sustainable production methods.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to engage with artisans and cross-functional teams.
• Project management skills with the ability to manage multiple products simultaneously.