Design Director (AI & Tech)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Director (AI & Tech)

Company: DEPT®

Location: London, Manchester, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Creative & Media / Art & Design / Management & Leadership / Technology / Marketing

Date Posted: 2026-06-09

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and inspire a design team to deliver innovative and high-quality creative work for an AI platform client across global markets.

• Uphold brand and business standards, ensuring creative excellence across all campaigns and projects through clear feedback, guidance, and inspiration.

• Act as a hands-on creative leader, willing to 'get your hands dirty' to support team execution and drive projects forward.

• Combine design management, people development, asset production, resource management, and creative innovation to serve as a trusted partner to wider team leads.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a blend of strategic creative vision and practical execution, with a strong emphasis on leading a team and managing client relationships within the tech/AI sector. The "AI & Tech" focus suggests a need for understanding emerging technologies and their application in creative campaigns.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, motivate, and inspire DEPT®’s design teams, fostering collaboration and a high-performance culture.

• Deliver and inspire innovative, high-quality work across all team deliverables, from simple BAU creative to full-scale productions.

• Develop strong creative ideas rooted in narrative, pacing, composition, and visual structure, ensuring alignment with brand and business objectives.

• Initiate and facilitate creative team collaboration, sharing, and cohesion through social and team-building initiatives.

• Guide execution across motion and static deliverables, ensuring work remains aligned with original creative intent and brand consistency.

• Act as the primary design representative for the client, building and maintaining a productive working relationship with other disciplines across the agency.

• Contribute to the development of agency processes, structures, and the overall quality of design output in collaboration with the ECD.

• Nurture and develop a team of fulfilled designers, providing mentorship and career guidance.

• Explore and work within a variety of formats and platforms to create impactful global campaigns.

• Present work internally and externally, articulating creative rationale and strategic alignment.

• Stay current with industry developments, emerging design trends, and new tools, particularly in AI, to inform creative output.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on team leadership and hands-on creative contribution. The emphasis on "operationally set the client team up for success" and "experience working with resource / operations" indicates a need for strong operational awareness and collaboration with internal operations functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design, Fine Arts, Communications, or a related field is typically expected for a Design Director role.

Experience: A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in design, with a significant portion focused on leadership and client management within digital marketing or technology sectors.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in leading, growing, and inspiring design teams of 10+ individuals.

• Strong consultative approach to client leadership, ideally with experience in the tech or AI space.

• Exceptional visual judgment and confidence in contributing to concepts and creative direction.

• Experience in creating and reviewing scopes of work and timing plans for projects.

• High attention to detail, particularly in large-scale asset production and sign-off processes.

• Ability to collaborate effectively with wider teams, including producers, creatives, and other agency disciplines.

• Strong understanding of narrative pacing, composition, and visual structure in creative development.

• Familiarity with current design trends and cultural movements relevant to global campaigns. Preferred Skills:

• Curiosity and practical experience with AI tools and their application in creative workflows.

• Experience working closely with resource management or operations teams to ensure project success.

• Demonstrated ability to hustle for the best opportunities and suggest improved ways of working.

• A strong portfolio or showreel showcasing concept development, craft, and high-quality motion and design work, with specific examples of tech or AI-led campaigns.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "AI & Tech" aspect suggests that candidates with a portfolio demonstrating innovative use of technology in creative campaigns will be highly regarded. Experience with operational aspects of project management, such as scoping and resource allocation, is also critical.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing strong concept development, exceptional craft, and high-quality motion and static design work.

• Specific examples of campaigns for technology or AI-led clients, demonstrating an understanding of the sector.

• Evidence of leading creative direction and signing off on final deliverables.

• Case studies that illustrate a consultative approach to client partnerships and problem-solving.

• Demonstrated ability to guide execution across various formats and platforms for global campaigns. Process Documentation:

• Examples of how you've developed and refined design processes to improve efficiency and quality.

• Evidence of creating and reviewing scopes of work and timing plans, demonstrating project operational awareness.

• Insights into how you've integrated AI or new technologies into creative workflows.

• Documentation of collaborative processes used to foster team cohesion and cross-functional synergy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role, serving as tangible proof of creative leadership and execution capabilities, especially within the tech/AI domain. Demonstrating an understanding of project operational processes and resource management within the portfolio will be highly advantageous.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the seniority of a Design Director role in London/Manchester and the specialist nature of AI/Tech clients, an estimated salary range would be £70,000 - £100,000 per annum. This is a benchmark estimate and actual compensation will depend on individual experience, qualifications, and specific client project scope.

Benefits:

• Flexible, hybrid working policy (2 days in the office, depending on location).

• Competitive and equal pay policies.

• Pension contributions.

• Free private healthcare.

• Mental health support services.

• Company sick pay scheme.

• Generous 26 days of paid holiday, in addition to UK Bank Holidays.

• Office refreshments and social perks (e.g., Thursday drinks).

• Season ticket loan and cycle-to-work scheme for commuting assistance.

• Enhanced family-friendly policies for new parents.

• Access to social and cultural events, inspirational talks, and learning & development opportunities.

• Buddy Programme for new hires.

Working Hours: A standard full-time work week is implied, likely around 40 hours, with a hybrid model allowing for a balance between office-based collaboration and remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for senior creative leadership roles in major UK cities and the specialized nature of AI/Tech. The comprehensive benefits package reflects a company that invests in employee well-being and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing & Technology Services, specializing in combining data, technology, creative, and paid media to drive digital marketing solutions. DEPT® operates at the intersection of technology and marketing, positioning itself as a "Growth Invention" company.

Company Size: DEPT® is a significant global agency, indicated by the requirement to lead teams of 10+. This suggests a mid-to-large size organization with established processes and a broad client base.

Founded: DEPT® was founded in 2015. The company's ethos is built around growth, innovation, and a fast-paced, inventive culture.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the Marketing & Technology service, based in London.

• You will lead a design team and collaborate with a wider team of creatives, producers, and other disciplines across the agency.

• There's a clear reporting line to the ECD for process and quality improvements, and a need to build productive relationships with other department leads.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working closely with creative planners, resource management, and potentially other technology specialists. Methodology:

• DEPT® emphasizes a data-driven, technology-focused approach to marketing, creating solutions that drive revenue.

• The culture values pioneering ideas, acting fast, and continuous invention.

• Core values include "better together," "relentlessly curious," and "get sh*t done," which influence daily work and decision-making.

• The company is a Certified B Corp®, indicating a commitment to social and environmental responsibility alongside business success.

Company Website: https://www.deptagency.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: DEPT®'s culture is characterized by rapid innovation, collaboration, and a results-oriented mindset. The B Corp® certification highlights a commitment to ethical practices, which can be a significant factor for candidates seeking purpose-driven work.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior leadership level (Design Director), responsible for a significant team and a key client relationship. It involves strategic oversight, creative vision, and operational management of design output.

Reporting Structure: The Design Director will report to the ECD (Executive Creative Director) for strategic guidance on processes and quality. They will also work closely with wider team leads and client management to ensure project success.

Operations Impact: The Design Director's impact is crucial in shaping the creative output for a major AI Platform client, directly influencing brand perception, campaign effectiveness, and ultimately, client revenue. They are responsible for ensuring creative excellence and operational efficiency within the design function.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to further hone team leadership and management skills, potentially leading larger teams or multiple client accounts.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in AI and emerging technologies within creative applications, becoming a go-to expert in this niche.

• Strategic Influence: Contribute to the broader creative strategy and process development for DEPT®, influencing agency-wide best practices.

• Client Relationship Growth: Develop long-term, strategic partnerships with key clients, moving beyond execution to consultative advisory roles.

• Industry Recognition: Potential to contribute to award-winning work and elevate the profile of DEPT®'s design capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for an experienced designer to move into a strategic leadership position, with opportunities for both team management and specialized growth within the exciting field of AI-driven creative campaigns. The focus on operational efficiency also provides a pathway into broader agency management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working model, with 2 days per week expected in the office. This suggests a modern, collaborative office space designed to facilitate teamwork, brainstorming, and client presentations.

Office Location(s): London and Manchester, United Kingdom. This offers flexibility for candidates based in either of these major cities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is designed to foster interaction between disciplines (design, creative, technology, paid media). Expect opportunities for spontaneous brainstorming and cross-functional project work.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software and potentially cutting-edge AI tools relevant to creative production. The company's tech-forward approach implies a well-equipped environment.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with design team members, creative leads, producers, and client stakeholders, fostering a dynamic and communicative atmosphere.

Work Schedule: A standard full-time schedule (likely 40 hours/week) is expected, with the hybrid policy offering flexibility in where work is performed, but not necessarily a reduction in overall working hours. The focus on "get sh*t done" implies a results-driven pace.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model emphasizes a balance between focused individual work (likely remote) and collaborative team sessions (in-office). The office environment is expected to be modern, dynamic, and conducive to creative problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of CV and portfolio by a recruiter or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and creative fit.

• Creative/Team Interview: A discussion focusing on your leadership philosophy, team management experience, and creative approach. This may involve presenting your portfolio and discussing specific projects. Expect questions about how you handle creative challenges, motivate teams, and collaborate with others.

• Client/Operational Interview: This stage will likely focus on your experience leading client relationships, managing resources, and working with operations teams. You might be asked to discuss your approach to scoping, timing, and ensuring brand consistency for large-scale projects.

• Final Interview/Presentation: Potentially a presentation of a case study or a strategic approach to a hypothetical brief, demonstrating your ability to lead and innovate. This is where you'll articulate your vision for the role and the client.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your leadership, creative direction, and experience with tech/AI clients.

• Showcase Leadership: Clearly articulate your role in each project, specifically highlighting leadership, team guidance, and decision-making processes.

• Highlight AI/Tech Relevance: Ensure projects demonstrate your understanding of and experience with AI, technology, and digital innovation in creative campaigns.

• Demonstrate Process: Include examples of how you've approached challenges, managed timelines, and collaborated with cross-functional teams, including operational aspects like scoping.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics or qualitative outcomes to demonstrate the success of your creative work and leadership.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for questions about your leadership style, how you motivate teams, and manage underperforming individuals.

• Think about specific examples of how you've driven creative excellence, maintained brand consistency, and navigated client feedback.

• Consider how you would approach operationalizing creative processes within a hybrid team structure.

• Research DEPT®'s recent work and their B Corp® status to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount. Be ready to discuss not just the final creative output, but the strategic thinking, leadership, and operational considerations that went into its creation, especially concerning AI and tech clients.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Proficiency in industry-standard design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, After Effects), Figma, Sketch, or similar.

• Motion Graphics Software: Expertise in Adobe After Effects for creating high-quality motion graphics and animations.

• Prototyping Tools: Familiarity with tools like Figma, InVision, or Adobe XD for interactive design and prototyping.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary responsibility, an understanding of how design impacts analytics and reporting metrics (e.g., conversion rates, engagement) is beneficial. Exposure to tools like Google Analytics or client-specific dashboards would be advantageous. CRM & Automation:

• Less direct involvement expected, but awareness of how creative assets integrate into marketing automation platforms or CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce Marketing Cloud, HubSpot) can be helpful for understanding campaign workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is design-focused, familiarity with tools that facilitate collaboration (like Figma) and showcase motion graphics (After Effects) is essential. A general awareness of how design outputs integrate into broader marketing technology stacks is a plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Better Together: Emphasis on collaboration, teamwork, and mutual support across all disciplines and teams.

• Relentlessly Curious: A drive to explore new ideas, technologies (especially AI), and trends, fostering innovation and continuous learning.

• Get Sh*t Done: A proactive, results-oriented approach to execution, encouraging initiative and efficient problem-solving.

• Client-Centricity: A commitment to understanding and solving client business problems through creative technology and marketing solutions.

• Sustainability & Impact: As a B Corp®, DEPT® values ethical practices and making a positive impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working seamlessly with other departments (technology, strategy, paid media, production) to deliver integrated campaigns.

• Open Communication: Encouraging honest feedback, transparent discussions, and sharing of knowledge to improve processes and outcomes.

• Agile & Iterative: A culture that embraces rapid iteration, experimentation, and adaptation to evolving project needs and market trends.

• Empowerment: Trusting team members and empowering them to take ownership of their work and contribute ideas.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate alignment with DEPT®'s core values, showing a blend of collaborative spirit, innovative thinking, and a strong drive for execution. The B Corp® status implies a culture that values purpose alongside profit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Leadership and Execution: Effectively managing a team of 10+ while remaining hands-on and contributing creatively to high-priority projects.

• Navigating AI Advancements: Staying ahead of the curve in rapidly evolving AI technology and translating these advancements into tangible, innovative creative work for clients.

• Client Demands for Innovation: Meeting client expectations for cutting-edge creative solutions in a fast-paced tech/AI market.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency at Scale: Ensuring a cohesive brand identity across numerous global campaigns and diverse creative formats.

• Operationalizing Creative Processes: Continuously refining and implementing efficient workflows and resource management within a hybrid team structure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI & Tech Immersion: Direct exposure to AI platform clients and emerging technologies, providing opportunities to become a specialist in AI-driven creative.

• Leadership Training: Access to formal and informal leadership development programs within DEPT®.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to work on high-profile global campaigns for major brands, contributing to an impressive portfolio and industry reputation.

• Mentorship: Learning from senior leaders within DEPT®, including the ECD, and potentially through the company's Buddy Programme.

• Creative Process Innovation: Contributing to the evolution of DEPT®'s creative methodologies and operational frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant opportunities for growth in a dynamic, future-focused industry. Candidates should be prepared to embrace challenges related to rapid technological change and leadership complexity.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your philosophy for leading and motivating a large creative team. How do you foster collaboration and ensure high-quality output?" (Focus on your leadership approach, team-building strategies, and experience with hybrid teams.)

• "How do you approach translating complex AI or technology concepts into compelling creative narratives and visual campaigns?" (Prepare examples of how you simplify technical information and create engaging stories.)

• "Walk us through a time you had to manage a challenging client relationship or deliver a project with tight operational constraints. What was your approach and the outcome?" (Emphasize your consultative skills, problem-solving, and operational awareness.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to DEPT® and our 'Growth Invention' philosophy, particularly our B Corp® status?" (Research DEPT®'s mission, values, and recent work. Connect your own values to theirs.)

• "How do you see AI impacting the future of creative direction and design?" (Demonstrate your forward-thinking perspective and curiosity about emerging technologies.)

• "Describe your experience working with resource management or operations teams to ensure project success." (Highlight your understanding of operational efficiency and collaboration.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your portfolio presentation around compelling stories for each project, detailing the challenge, your strategic approach, leadership actions, operational considerations, and the impactful results.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your slides are clean, visually appealing, and effectively showcase your design craft and motion work.

• Focus on Leadership: For each project, clearly articulate your role as a leader, how you guided the team, and how you ensured creative excellence and brand consistency.

• AI/Tech Integration: Explicitly highlight how you leveraged or understood AI/technology in your featured projects.

• Interactive Elements: Be prepared to discuss specific design decisions, creative rationale, and operational challenges in detail.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be ready to discuss both the creative vision and the operational realities of delivering large-scale campaigns. Demonstrating an understanding of DEPT®'s values and culture will be as important as showcasing your design expertise.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Director position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the DEPT® careers page.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 3-5 of your most relevant projects that showcase your leadership, creative direction, and experience with tech/AI clients. Ensure it highlights your ability to manage teams, operations, and client relationships.

• Tailor Your CV: Emphasize your experience in leading teams of 10+, your consultative client approach, and any specific work with tech or AI clients. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice discussing your portfolio projects, focusing on your leadership role, creative problem-solving, operational considerations, and understanding of AI's impact.

• Research DEPT®: Familiarize yourself with DEPT®'s values, recent campaigns, their B Corp® status, and their "Growth Invention" philosophy to align your application and interview responses.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with DEPT® before making application decisions.