Barnaby Ward

Over the last few years I have been working as a Freelance Industrial Designer. I have worked on a wide range of projects including large and low volume product design, 3D visualization, molding and tooling analysis, part sourcing, market research and project management.

During my tenure at Navico Group, a global leader in marine electronics, I had the privilege of leading the Industrial Design team, focusing on pivotal brands such as Simrad, Lowrance and B&G. My role was marked by innovation, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of design excellence within the marine industry.

Key Responsibilities and Achievements:

Strategic Leadership:
Guided the team towards a more design-led future, aligning with business goals and setting the foundation for creativity and growth.
Project Management:
Implemented robust internal project management systems, ensuring efficiency, accountability, and effective resource allocation.
Brand Focus:
Contributed to the development and design of key marine products for prominent brands Simrad and Lowrance, underscoring Navico's commitment to quality and innovation.
Cross-functional Collaboration:
Worked closely with cross-departmental teams to streamline projects, reducing budget overages and fostering seamless communication.
Design Innovation:
Led initiatives to create captivating designs that balanced aesthetics, functionality, and cost-effectiveness, enhancing Navico's position in the market.
Response to Organizational Change:
Demonstrated adaptability and resilience during the transition period following Navico's acquisition by Brunswick, maintaining team morale and project continuity.

My experience at Navico allowed me to deepen my expertise within the marine industry and cultivate leadership skills that have prepared me for new challenges and opportunities. The blend of creativity, strategy, and passion I brought to Navico continues to shape my approach to design and innovation.

Breville allowed me to understand product development on a large scale. Tooling and Mass production knowledge and working to tight schedules. Working in a large design team and managing expectations and time management. Concept visualisation and presentation, detailed parametric design, supply chain management, BOM, FOB costing.

Working alongside professional electronic/mechanical engineers, Orbitsound has allowed me to fully design and manufacture three internationally sold products from start to finish. Experiences include design for manufacture, deep understanding of CMF, production costs, budgeting, Gantt project planning, directing engineering teams, product presentations/proposals, rendering, CAD development, technical drawing, marketing, prototyping, modelmaking. Being a small team I learnt productive time management and delegation skills and most important of all leading and empowering a team of creatives to redevelop Orbitsound's brand from the ground up with a design-led focus.

Working with digital agencies / councils / national museums in NZ and internationally designing, concepting & drafting small to large scale exhibition projects from CAD through to production on tight deadlines. Experience includes cabinetry and infrastructure builds, concept presentation, rendering visualisation, RFP presentations, model and mould making, CNC design and operation, Spray booth and paint department, welding, steel fabrication, residential/commercial furniture design and object install, mount making & art packaging.