As Lincoln interior design chief, Ryan Niemiec guides a team of designers to deliver future Lincoln interiors – helping to create a sanctuary of calming horizontal lines, rich materials and collective indulgence that make Lincoln’s interior experience a key differentiator for the brand. Niemiec was instrumental in the design of the brand’s flagship, the new 2022 Navigator, which debuts later this summer.

Prior to his current role, Niemiec served as interior design manager for Ford, Lincoln and Advanced Design, working on a range of brand vehicles – the 2016 Lincoln MKX, the 2017 Lincoln MKZ and the 2018 Lincoln Navigator.

Niemiec, a Michigan native, was surrounded and influenced by the automotive industry growing up, and while it wasn’t always a career path he envisioned, he found himself drawn to it after graduating from college. He came to Ford Motor Company in 2002 after earning his degree in industrial design from the College for Creative Studies.

One of Niemiec’s most memorable experiences with Lincoln was working on the all-new 2018 Navigator. “Dare I say, it was magical – it set the foundation and direction of all future Lincoln vehicles,” he said. “Now, having the chance to work on the new 2022 Navigator has allowed my team and I to take a step back and improve on certain details, like integrating a navigation screen that looks more seamless – the ultimate balance of luxury and technology.”

Outside of work, Niemiec maintains a busy home life, with his wife and four daughters. He finds solace and creativity in home improvements, enjoys cooking, spending time outside, having movie nights with his girls and spending time with friends and family.