Design Lead

About This Role

Design Lead - Zayed National Museum - Abu Dhabi

Job purpose :

• Lead the creative approach and end-to-end product development for Al Nagwa Boutique. Translate the museum’s narrative, collections, and exhibitions into distinctive, culturally authentic, and commercially viable retail collections.
• Ensure all boutique products reflect historical integrity, design excellence, and the museum’s brand identity to enhance visitor engagement and revenue generation.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead the full product development lifecycle from concept ideation to production and retail launch.
• Design and develop bespoke retail collections inspired by permanent galleries, collections, and temporary exhibitions.
• Translate heritage stories and artefacts into innovative, commercially attractive product concepts.
• Collaborate with curators, historians, education teams, and relevant stakeholders to ensure historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity.
• Develop original product designs, packaging concepts, and visual merchandising elements aligned with the museum’s identity.
• Create seasonal retail strategies and exclusive capsule collections aligned with exhibitions, public programmes, and institutional milestones.
• Identify and onboard local and regional artisans, designers, and suppliers, prioritizing Local -based production and culturally relevant craftsmanship.
• Oversee sourcing, sampling, and quality control processes in coordination with the boutique operator to ensure premium standards.
• Monitor production timelines, cost considerations, and feasibility while maintaining creative integrity.
• Lead retail display concepts and in-store storytelling to enhance visitor engagement and optimize sales performance.

Qualification and Experience required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Product Design, Industrial Design, Fashion Design, Visual Arts, or a related field.
• Preferred Master’s degree in Design, Creative Direction, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in product design, retail design, museum retail, or lifestyle brand development.
• Proven experience leading end-to-end product development cycles.
• Experience working with artisans, suppliers, and production partners.
• Experience in cultural institutions, museums, luxury retail, heritage brands, or boutique environments is preferred.