At Polaris Inc., we have fun doing what we love by driving change and innovation. We empower employees to take on challenging assignments and roles with an elevated level of responsibility in our agile working environment. Our people make us who we are, and we create incredible products and experiences that empower us to THINK OUTSIDE.

Job Description 

The Senior Manager of Color, Materials, Finishes, and Graphics (CMFG) Design is an experienced Designer and Leader that guides and mentors Polaris’ world class Graphic and CMF Designers and support staff to create graphic concepts, paint & finish solutions, various branding graphics, and color strategies for all vehicle brands and portfolio segments of Polaris Industries. 

Key responsibilities are workload prioritization, mentoring, directing, and reviewing the work of multiple Graphic and Industrial Designers through the CMFG process phases.  Also assist with the resource planning while building a strong, capable team through recruiting, training, and mentoring. 

Communication throughout a broad spectrum of levels and roles is a must for good decision making and communication of design intent to Polaris management. 

This individual partners with Product Managers, Design Leaders, Engineering, and Manufacturing to guide the strategy and development of product materials and finishes that align with voice of customer data and Long-Range Product Planning. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: 

Creative Leadership – defines, positions, and establishes CMFG as a core competitive advantage and brand differentiator 

Quality Creative Execution – guide Designers and support staff though the CMFG process for all divisions. 

Position CMFG as Subject Matter Experts – operate as a strategic partner across Polaris, working with Product Management, Industrial Designers, and Engineering Program managers to help develop and define program objectives, development schedules and budgets, reviews, resources to ensure on-time, world-class design value 

Design-Business Acumen – works to translate Design solutions into impactful business value 

Participate in team meetings and provide updates to stakeholders; ensure adherence to schedules. 

Build and manage relationships with external design contractors and strategic suppliers. 

Foster a Culture of Creativity – enable the designers to explore, present, share and leverage new ideas that elevate the Polaris brand and the riding experience. 

Curate Design Leadership – guide, mentor, and empower designers to engage with the business and position Polaris Design subject matter experts for strategic creativity. 

Maintain safe, secure, ethical, and legal work environment. 

SKILLS,  KNOWLEDGE & EDUCATION: 

4-year degree in Industrial Design, Graphic Design, or related field  

Expert ability to execute design activities leveraging design tools and software (e.g. Adobe Creative Suite, etc.) 

9+ years CMFG development experience across various transportation industries and/or consumer products. 

Strong Leadership experience and mindset, ability to identify and lead organizational change  

Strong and relevant portfolio showing relatable design skills and design management 

Team-based, collaborative, fast-paced, office/studio environment 

We are an ambitious, resourceful, and driven workforce, which empowers us to THINK OUTSIDE.  Apply today!

At Polaris we put our employees first, by offering a holistic approach to their health and financial wellbeing.  Polaris is proud to offer competitive compensation, including a market-leading profit-sharing plan that is fundamental to our pay-for-performance culture. At Polaris, employees are owners of the company through company contributions to our Employee Stock Ownership Plan and discounted employee stock purchases plan. Employees receive a generous matching contribution to 401(k), financial wellness education and consultation to plan for their financial future. In addition to competitive pay, Polaris provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, paid time off, gym & personal training reimbursement, life insurance and disability offerings.  Through the Polaris Foundation and our Polaris Gives paid volunteer time off, we support employees who actively volunteer their time, efforts, and passions to improve the health and wellbeing of the communities in which they live, play and work. Employees at Polaris drive our success and are rewarded for their commitment.

About Polaris

As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) pioneers product breakthroughs and enriching experiences and services that have invited people to discover the joy of being outdoors since our founding in 1954. Polaris' high-quality product line-up includes the Polaris RANGER®, RZR® and Polaris GENERAL™ side-by-side off-road vehicles; Sportsman® all-terrain off-road vehicles; military and commercial off-road vehicles; snowmobiles; Indian Motorcycle® mid-size and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot® moto-roadsters; Aixam quadricycles; Goupil electric vehicles; and pontoon and deck boats, including industry-leading Bennington pontoons. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a robust portfolio of parts, garments, and accessories. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe.  www.polaris.com  

EEO Statement

Polaris is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.