Sebastiano Develli
Strategic Foresight × Transportation Design
About Me
I’m a strategic designer with a background in automotive and transportation design, working at the intersection of product planning, trend foresight, and brand-driven innovation.
At BMW Group, I shape early-phase design strategy across multiple brands by connecting design vision with technology planning, market insights, and product development. My work covers trend analysis, AI-supported research, and leadership in cross-functional environments.
Previously, I designed motorcycles at KISKA for brands such as KTM, Husqvarna, and CFMoto, developing concepts from sketch to production. This hands-on foundation strengthens my ability to link strategic thinking with practical design execution.
Beyond industry roles, I gained adaptability and resilience through service in the Austrian Armed Forces, where I developed leadership and fast decision-making in high-pressure scenarios.
I bring a holistic mindset to every project, combining creative precision with business logic and long-term relevance. My focus is on shaping mobility experiences that are both visionary and grounded.
Expertise
BMW Group
Design Strategist | 2023 – Present
Design strategy for BMW Group brands, aligning with brand, technology, and product roadmaps
Benchmarking, trend analysis, and market research to support strategic decision-making
Synergies between design and product planning, ensuring a holistic approach to vehicle development
Team leadership and management, fostering collaboration across design, strategy, and engineering
Integration of AI-driven processes to enhance design workflows and efficiency
KISKA
2-Wheel Design Intern | 2022
Motorcycle design for KTM, Husqvarna, and CFMoto, from concept to production
Development of technical accessories and support for supplier project management (SPM)
Focus on brand identity, functionality, and engineering feasibility
Fast-paced agency environment, handling multiple projects under tight deadlines
Austrian Armed Forces
Soldier (Team Management & Coordination) | 2021 – 2022
Team coordination and logistics in high-pressure environments
Development of problem-solving, leadership, and resilience through structured military training
Adaptation to challenging scenarios, improving decision-making and teamwork
Filmatelier Mils
Post Production & Advertising Materials | 2016
Post-production work and creation of advertising materials
Proacteam Basel
Medical Graphics Department | 2015
Graphic support for medical illustrations and documentation
Pixelknecht Innsbruck
Post Editing for Viking | 2015
Post-production and editing for Viking-related projects
TKV Rum
Restructuring of Postcard Database | 2015
Organization and structuring of postcard archives
Education
SRH UNIVERSITY
M.A. Design Management | 2024 – Present
Istituto Europeo di Design Torino
B.A. Transportation Design | 2018 – 2021
HTL Bau und Design Innsbruck
Graphic & Communication Design | 2013 – 2018
Adolf Pichler Platz Innsbruck
High School | 2009 – 2013
Elementary School Innere Stadt Innsbruck
German / Italian Program | 2005 – 2009
Elementary School Basiglio/Milano
2003 – 2005
Competencies
Languages
German (Native/Fluent)
Italian (Native/Fluent)
English (Professional Fluency C1+)
Software & Tools
Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere, etc.)
Alias AutoStudio & VRED
Blender
Maya & Arnold
Figma
Office 365
Mac & Windows Environments
AI-Driven Design Processes
Design & Strategy Expertise
Automotive & Transportation Design
Motorcycle Design
Exterior & Interior Vehicle Design
Future Mobility & AI-Integrated Design
Market Research & Trend Analysis
Brand Strategy & Product Planning
UX/UI & Digital Experience Design
Visualization & High-Quality Design Execution
Concept Development & Feasibility Analysis
Creative & Technical Skills
Graphic & Communication Design
Sketching & Illustration
Clay & 3D Modeling
Rendering & Visualization
Post-Production & Advertising Materials
Design Process Optimization & Team Leadership
Collaboration Across Strategy, Design & Engineering
Additional Experience
High-Pressure Environments (Military, Agency, Corporate Settings)
Interdisciplinary Team Leadership & Management
Cross-Functional Synergies Between Design & Product Planning
Licenses
A & B Driving Licenses