At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead creative vision and shape digital experiences that inspire and engage.
- Company: Join AKQA, a forward-thinking tech company at the intersection of design and technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid work options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on creativity and modern design workflows.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by guiding innovative product storytelling and digital interactions.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in digital design, product launches, and team leadership.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
At AKQA (part of WPP), we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create ideas, products, and services that move the world forward.
We exist at the intersection of design, technology, and culture — creating work that is as meaningful as it is beautiful.
The Opportunity
As Group Design Director, your opportunity is to define what comes next.
You will lead the vision, shape the work, and set the benchmark for digital craft across brand and product experiences.
This role guides ideas from first thought to final execution, ensuring that every digital interaction is intelligent, innovative, and unforgettable.
You are a creative leader and a maker at heart, balancing bold, systemic thinking with meticulous craft.
You know how to build teams, elevate talent, and cultivate an environment where great ideas thrive.
Under your leadership, global product storytelling and launch experiences will sit at the core — moments where every detail matters, and every interaction carries meaning.
This role is embedded within a client team in London and requires onsite collaboration in the client studio three days per week.
- This is a 6–9 month rolling fixed-term contract, offered on a hybrid basis
- ROLE REQUIREMENTS
- Uphold Design Excellence: Define and uphold the creative vision and standard across all digital brand, product, and interactive launch experiences.
- Lead Product Storytelling: Drive the end-to-end creative process for global product launches — from early-stage narrative concept through to final digital execution and delivery.
- Be Hands-On with
Craft: Maintain an active, hands-on approach where needed, sitting alongside designers to guide UI, interaction design, and visual craft at key execution moments.
- Navigate Embedded Dynamics: Collaborate within a joint, cross-functional team of both AKQA and client-side designers, UX specialists, writers, and technologists.
- Solve Complex Challenges: Translate sophisticated product strategies and technical inputs into simple, compelling, and elegant digital narratives.
- Act as a Trusted Partner: Act as a confident creative partner, presenting and defending ambitious design work to senior internal stakeholders.
- Mentor and Cultivate Talent: Mentor and develop creative talent, fostering a high-performing, collaborative, and inclusive team environment.
- Pioneer
- Modern
Workflows: Champion and implement modern design technologies and workflows — including motion design, spatial interfaces, rapid prototyping, and AI-assisted design tools.
- Ensure Visual Consistency: Establish tight creative feedback loops and design reviews to ensure absolute consistency across complex digital ecosystems.
- Balance Ambition with Rigour: Drive creative ambition while maintaining the discipline and focus required to deliver on high-stakes, time-sensitive launch schedules.
- QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS
- A Master of Craft: A visionary creative leader with a relentless, uncompromising commitment to digital design craft, layout, typography, and detail.
- Launch-Experienced: Deep, proven expertise in leading digital product launches, connected-experience storytelling, and interactive campaigns for global premium brands.
- Systemic Thinker: Strong expertise in building and scaling digital brand systems, interactive ecosystems, and responsive web platforms.
- Diplomatic and
Adaptable: Experienced working within embedded or client-side team structures, with the communication skills and diplomacy to lead within an integrated creative model.
- Natural Mentor: A supportive, inspiring leader who is genuinely invested in the growth of their team members.
- Compelling Storyteller: A brilliant communicator and presenter, able to articulate the \"why\" behind design decisions and inspire stakeholders.
- Strategic & Practical: Both a high-level conceptual thinker and a pragmatic problem-solver who can roll up their sleeves and design.
- Technically Curious: Forward-thinking and curious about emerging technology and how it translates into the future of human-device interaction.
Explore our extensive range of benefits here.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Group Design Director employer: AKQA
AKQA London is an exceptional employer that values creativity and collaboration, offering a vibrant work culture in the heart of Farringdon. As a part-time Studio Concierge & Events Coordinator, you'll enjoy flexible working arrangements while contributing to a dynamic team dedicated to delivering outstanding client experiences. With opportunities for professional growth and a supportive environment, AKQA fosters an atmosphere where your skills can flourish and your contributions are recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Design Director
✨Get Your Work Out There
As a temporary UX/UI designer, it’s crucial to have a solid portfolio that showcases your best projects. Share your designs on platforms like Behance or Dribbble, and don't shy away from seeking feedback in design communities. The more visible you are, the better your chances of snagging that next gig!
✨Join Design Meet-ups
Networking in the UX/UI design field can be a game changer. Attend local design meet-ups or workshops to connect with other designers and potential employers. These casual settings often lead to freelance or temporary job opportunities that are not advertised widely. Plus, it’s a great way to share ideas and get inspired!
✨Flexible Platforms for Temporary Roles
Use job platforms that focus on temporary roles, like Creative Circle or Similar. These sites often have listings specifically for short-term design projects, making it easier for you to find quick gigs. Make sure your profiles on these platforms are up to date and highlight your availability!
✨Slide into Direct Applications
When you see a company like AKQA is looking for a Group Design Director, don’t just rely on job boards. Check out their careers page and apply directly! Companies often prefer candidates who show initiative and genuine interest in their work, plus you might find opportunities that haven't been widely advertised yet.
We think you need these skills to ace Group Design Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show off your portfolio:Since you're diving into UX/UI design, make sure your portfolio is front and centre. We want to see your design process, not just the final products. Share case studies that explain your thought process, the problems you solved, and how you approached user research!
Tailor your CV for the design world:In UX/UI design, your CV should reflect your creative side! Highlight relevant design skills, software you’re proficient in (like Sketch or Figma), and any user experience methodologies you’ve employed. Keep it sleek and visually appealing—after all, we’re in design!
Emphasise your adaptability:Because this is a temporary role with AKQA, we want to see that you can hit the ground running. In your cover letter, mention examples of how you’ve adapted to tight deadlines or changing project scopes in the past. Showcase that flexibility and eagerness to learn!
Highlight collaboration experience:UX/UI design is all about teamwork. When you’re applying, mention any experiences where you’ve worked closely with developers, product managers, or other designers. Let AKQA know how you can effectively communicate and collaborate to create fantastic user experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at AKQA
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
When interviewing for a temporary UX/UI design role at AKQA, your portfolio is your best friend. Bring along a digital copy and be ready to discuss your design process, the challenges you faced in your past projects, and how you solved them. This is a great opportunity to showcase your adaptability and how quickly you can deliver results.
✨Know Your Tools Inside Out
In the world of UX/UI design, familiarity with tools like Sketch, Figma, or Adobe XD is crucial. Make sure you can comfortably talk about projects you’ve completed with these tools and any unique features you’ve leveraged. The interviewer might throw in some technical questions about these tools, so be prepared!
✨Understand the Company’s Design Voice
For a temporary gig at AKQA, it's key to understand their brand and design ethos. Dive into their past projects or any current designs they may have on their website. Showing that you’re aligned with their visual style and user experience approach will help you stand out during the interview.
✨Flexibility is Key
As it’s a temporary position, highlight your ability to adapt and learn quickly. Discuss previous experiences where you’ve had to pivot your design approach or work under tight deadlines. Employers like AKQA will appreciate someone who can hit the ground running and be a quick study.
