At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a creative design team and manage diverse design projects from start to finish.
- Company: Dynamic public sector client with a focus on innovative design solutions.
- Benefits: Flexible location, competitive pay, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity for professional growth in a fast-paced, supportive environment.
- Why this job: Shape the future of design in the public sector while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Strong design management experience and proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 £ per year.
Harvey Nash's public sector client is seeking a Design Manager to lead a multidisciplinary design team. This role will see you managing a team delivering a wide range of creative outputs from large-scale digital learning resources and publications to branding, campaigns and microsites. You will oversee the full design production process, working closely with internal stakeholders to scope, prioritise and deliver high-quality outputs aligned to strategic objectives.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage a team of designers, ensuring effective workload planning and delivery
- Oversee end-to-end design production, from brief through to final output
- Act as the primary point of contact for internal clients, managing expectations, timelines and deliverables
- Maintain and develop brand standards across a wide range of materials
- Manage external design suppliers where required
- Provide expert design advice to senior stakeholders
- Support team development through coaching and mentoring
Key Requirements
- Strong experience managing design teams in a fast-paced environment
- Proven track record delivering end-to-end design projects
- Experience developing and applying brand guidelines
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, After Effects)
- Understanding of accessibility requirements within the public sector
Desirable
- Experience within public sector, health, social care or education
- Familiarity with CMS platforms (e.g. Umbraco)
- Experience managing external suppliers
Design Manager employer: Harvey Nash
As a Design Manager with our public sector client in Scotland, you will thrive in a dynamic and supportive work culture that values creativity and collaboration. The company offers flexible working arrangements, fostering a healthy work-life balance while providing ample opportunities for professional growth through mentorship and coaching. Join us to make a meaningful impact on the community by delivering high-quality design solutions that align with strategic objectives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Design Manager
✨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 Harvey Nash is looking for a Design Manager, 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 Design Manager
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 Harvey Nash, 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 Harvey Nash know how you can effectively communicate and collaborate to create fantastic user experiences.
How to prepare for a job interview at Harvey Nash
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
When interviewing for a temporary UX/UI design role at Harvey Nash, 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 Harvey Nash, 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 Harvey Nash will appreciate someone who can hit the ground running and be a quick study.
