Design Thinking Internship - UX/UI Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Thinking Internship - UX/UI Designer

Company: Barilla Group

Location: Parma, Italy

Job Type: Internship

Category: Design & Innovation Operations

Date Posted: July 14, 2026

Experience Level: Entry Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This internship focuses on applying Design Thinking principles to enhance user experience and drive digital transformation within Barilla's Global Discovery Center.

• The role involves the end-to-end design of a digital Open Innovation platform, integrating user-centric methodologies for a seamless digital journey.

• Key responsibilities include user research, wireframing, prototyping, and UI development, ensuring alignment with Barilla's digital brand guidelines.

• Collaboration with cross-functional teams (Innovation, IT, Communication) and external agencies is essential for successful platform development and implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title specifies "UX/UI Designer," the role's context within a "Design Thinking unit" and "Global Discovery Center" suggests a broader application of human-centered design principles. The focus on "digital transformation" and "experience design" implies that this internship is not just about visual design but also about understanding and improving user interactions across digital touchpoints. The "Open Innovation platform" aspect indicates a need to consider diverse user groups, both internal and external, and their engagement with innovation initiatives.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive user research and benchmark analysis to deeply understand the needs and expectations of internal stakeholders and external audiences for the Open Innovation platform.

• Map detailed user journeys and establish core experience principles that will guide the platform's design and functionality, ensuring a people-centric approach.

• Develop intuitive wireframes, interactive prototypes, and polished UI solutions that are visually aligned with Barilla’s established digital brand guidelines and aesthetic standards.

• Contribute to the strategic structuring of content and compelling storytelling to effectively communicate Barilla’s innovation initiatives, collaborations, and project successes.

• Support the planning and execution of user testing and validation activities to gather feedback and iteratively improve the platform's usability, engagement, and overall user experience.

• Actively collaborate with diverse cross-functional teams, including Innovation, IT, and Communication departments, to ensure technical feasibility, strategic coherence, and seamless integration into Barilla's digital ecosystem.

• Assist in the end-to-end design process of the Open Innovation digital platform, from initial concept ideation through to implementation, working closely with an external agency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities highlight a structured approach to design, moving from foundational research and strategy (user research, journey mapping) to tangible outputs (wireframes, prototypes, UI) and collaborative execution. The emphasis on "content structuring and storytelling" suggests a need for clear communication design skills, not just interface design. The mention of "external agency" collaboration implies project management and coordination skills will be beneficial.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Master’s degree (or final year of study) in Design (specifically Interaction Design, Service Design, Digital Design, UX/UI) or a closely related field.

Experience: While this is an internship, candidates with prior project experience (academic or professional) in UX/UI design, user research, or digital product development will be highly regarded. Familiarity with a professional design environment is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Fluent proficiency in both English and Italian, essential for effective communication within the global and local teams.

• Solid understanding and practical familiarity with user research methodologies, the Design Thinking approach, and various prototyping techniques.

• Strong command of UX/UI design principles and hands-on experience with leading design tools such as Figma, Adobe XD, or similar industry-standard software.

• Foundational knowledge of digital platforms, basic web architecture principles, and effective content structuring for user engagement.

• Familiarity with AI-based creative tools and their potential applications in design workflows.

• Demonstrated problem-solving mindset coupled with a genuine curiosity and passion for innovation.

• Proven ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional and international team environments.

• Proactive attitude, a strong willingness to learn, and excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Service Design principles and mapping complex service ecosystems.

• Knowledge of accessibility standards (WCAG) in UI design.

• Familiarity with content management systems (CMS) and their impact on UX.

• Experience in agile development methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of theoretical knowledge (Design Thinking, user research) and practical skills (Figma, Adobe XD). The fluency in both English and Italian is a critical requirement for this role based in Italy with a global company. The mention of "AI-based creative tools" indicates an openness to emerging technologies, suggesting candidates with exposure to or interest in AI-driven design processes will stand out.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 well-documented design projects that clearly demonstrate your application of the Design Thinking process.

• For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, user research insights, design challenges, and your specific contributions.

• Highlight your proficiency in UX/UI design tools (Figma, Adobe XD, etc.) through examples of wireframes, user flows, interactive prototypes, and final UI designs.

• Include case studies that demonstrate your ability to translate user needs into actionable design solutions, detailing the user journey mapping and experience principle definition.

• Provide evidence of your problem-solving approach, particularly how you navigated design challenges and iterated based on feedback or testing. Process Documentation:

• Clearly outline the steps taken in each project, emphasizing the research, ideation, prototyping, and testing phases.

• Detail how user insights were integrated into the design process and how feedback was used for iteration and improvement.

• Document the rationale behind design decisions, linking them back to user needs and project objectives.

• Showcase the final deliverables, including high-fidelity mockups and interactive prototypes that illustrate the intended user experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an internship role, the portfolio should focus on demonstrating the candidate's understanding of the design process and their potential, rather than extensive professional experience. Projects can be academic, personal, or from previous internships. The emphasis is on showcasing the how and why behind design decisions, reflecting the Design Thinking methodology.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: As this is an internship position, compensation is typically provided as a monthly stipend. Based on industry standards for internships in Italy, particularly in major cities like Parma within the food and beverage sector, a competitive stipend would likely range from €700 to €1000 per month.

Benefits:

• Monthly stipend to cover living expenses.

• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a leading global food company.

• Exposure to international teams and cross-functional collaboration.

• Mentorship from experienced design and innovation professionals.

• Potential for future career opportunities within Barilla Group.

• Access to company facilities and resources at the Parma HQ.

• Contribution to a real-world digital innovation project.

Working Hours: This is a full-time internship. Standard working hours are typically Monday to Friday, approximately 40 hours per week, with potential flexibility around start and end times, subject to team coordination and project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical internship stipends in Italy, considering the cost of living in Parma and the industry. Specific details should be confirmed with the hiring team. The benefits listed are standard for internships and tailored to highlight the unique learning and development opportunities at Barilla.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Food & Beverage, with a strong emphasis on innovation and global reach. Barilla is a leader in pasta, sauces, and bakery products, operating in over 100 countries.

Company Size: Barilla Group is a large, established international corporation employing nearly 9,000 people across 30 plants and offices worldwide. This scale offers stability and extensive resources.

Founded: 1877 in Parma, Italy. This long history signifies deep-rooted expertise, tradition, and a strong foundation for innovation.

Team Structure:

• The Design Thinking unit is part of the Global Discovery Center, indicating a strategic focus on innovation and future-forward thinking.

• This unit likely comprises specialists in Design Thinking, User Experience, Service Design, and Digital Innovation, fostering a multidisciplinary environment.

• The intern will report to a Design Lead or Manager within the Global Discovery Center and work closely with project managers and team members.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect, requiring interaction with teams from Marketing, IT, R&D, and Communications to integrate innovation into various business functions. Methodology:

• The Design Thinking unit employs human-centered methodologies to drive innovation and digital transformation.

• Emphasis is placed on deep understanding of user needs, iterative prototyping, and collaborative problem-solving.

• The team acts as a catalyst for innovation, supporting projects across the organization to develop new solutions, services, and experiences.

• Data-driven insights from user research and market analysis inform strategic decisions and design iterations.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Barilla's heritage and global presence suggest a culture that values both tradition and progress. The existence of a dedicated "Global Discovery Center" and "Design Thinking unit" points to a forward-thinking organization that invests in innovation and user-centric approaches. The internship is an excellent opportunity to experience how a large, established company fosters innovation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship, designed for individuals early in their design or innovation career. It provides foundational experience in applying design thinking and UX/UI principles within a corporate setting.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a manager or lead within the Global Discovery Center, who will provide guidance and mentorship. They will also collaborate with project teams, offering exposure to various levels and functions within the organization.

Operations Impact: The role's direct impact is on the design and development of the Open Innovation digital platform. This platform is critical for showcasing Barilla's innovation ecosystem, engaging stakeholders, and potentially driving new collaborations and business opportunities. The intern's work will contribute to the company's external perception of innovation and its internal processes for managing innovation initiatives.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Development: Deepen expertise in UX/UI design, user research, Design Thinking, prototyping tools, and digital platform design.

• Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable experience within the global food and beverage industry and learn how innovation is managed at a large corporation.

• Networking: Build professional connections with designers, innovators, and business professionals across different departments and potentially external partners.

• Potential for Future Roles: Successful interns may be considered for future graduate roles or further internships within Barilla, depending on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is positioned as a stepping stone for individuals aspiring to careers in UX/UI design, service design, or innovation management. The growth opportunities are focused on practical skill acquisition and professional networking within a reputable global organization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The internship is based at Barilla's Headquarters in Parma, Italy. This is likely a corporate office environment, offering professional workspaces and facilities.

Office Location(s): Parma, Italy. This location provides a vibrant Italian city experience with access to the company's central operations and strategic functions.

Workspace Context:

• The intern will likely have access to a dedicated workspace within the Global Discovery Center or Design Thinking unit, potentially a shared desk or a designated area for interns.

• The environment is expected to be collaborative, with opportunities for interaction with team members, designers, and other professionals.

• Access to design software, hardware, and other necessary tools for UX/UI design and prototyping will be provided.

• The atmosphere is likely dynamic, driven by innovation projects and cross-functional teamwork.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time internship schedule (approx. 40 hours/week), typically Monday to Friday. While structured, there may be some flexibility, especially in coordinating with international teams or managing project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Parma indicates a desire for direct collaboration, team integration, and immersion in the company's culture. The workspace context suggests an environment conducive to creative work and teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on resume, qualifications, and any submitted portfolio links.

• First Interview: Likely a remote or on-site interview with an HR representative and/or the hiring manager to assess cultural fit, motivation, and basic qualifications.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A session dedicated to reviewing the candidate's portfolio. This may involve a presentation of selected projects, discussing design choices, problem-solving approaches, and understanding of UX/UI principles. Candidates may be asked to walk through their design process for specific projects.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior members of the Design Thinking unit or other key stakeholders to discuss the role in more detail, assess strategic thinking, and confirm fit with the team and project goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills relevant to UX/UI design, Design Thinking, and user research.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed, your key contributions, and the outcome or learnings. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your Design Thinking methodology, user research methods, journey mapping, wireframing, prototyping, and UI design skills. Show how you arrived at your solutions.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Include examples of your work in Figma, Adobe XD, or other relevant tools. Interactive prototypes are highly valuable.

• Showcase Collaboration: If applicable, mention how you collaborated with others or incorporated feedback.

• Be Concise and Clear: Ensure your portfolio is easy to navigate and understand.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your understanding of Design Thinking and how you apply it to solve problems.

• Be ready to articulate your thought process behind specific design decisions in your portfolio.

• Research Barilla Group's brands, mission, and recent innovation efforts. Understand their digital presence.

• Think about how you would approach understanding the needs of Barilla's internal stakeholders and external audiences for an Open Innovation platform.

• Prepare questions to ask the interviewers about the team, the project, and the internship experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to evaluate both technical design skills and the candidate's alignment with Barilla's innovative and collaborative culture. A strong, well-presented portfolio is crucial for this role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• UX/UI Design Software: Figma, Adobe XD, Sketch (candidates should be proficient in at least one, ideally Figma or Adobe XD as specified).

• Prototyping Tools: InVision, Marvel, or built-in capabilities within Figma/Adobe XD.

• Wireframing Tools: Balsamiq, Miro, or similar for initial conceptualization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this design internship, familiarity with web analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics) and understanding how user behavior data informs design decisions would be beneficial.

• Basic understanding of how to interpret user testing feedback and usability metrics. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly relevant to this design role, but awareness of how digital platforms integrate with broader CRM or marketing automation systems is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core tools required are those essential for UX/UI design and prototyping. Proficiency in Figma or Adobe XD is explicitly mentioned, making them key technologies to highlight in one's resume and portfolio.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Passion for Excellence: A commitment to high-quality design and innovative solutions that reflect Barilla's brand standards.

• Human-Centered Approach: Prioritizing user needs and experiences in all design decisions, reflecting the Design Thinking methodology.

• Collaboration: Working effectively in cross-functional and international teams, valuing diverse perspectives.

• Curiosity & Innovation: A drive to explore new ideas, technologies (like AI in creative tools), and approaches to solve challenges.

• Purpose-Driven: Contributing to Barilla's mission of "Nourishing the future with purpose and passion" through innovative digital experiences.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The Design Thinking unit actively partners with various departments (Innovation, IT, Communication) to ensure design solutions are feasible, aligned with business goals, and effectively communicated.

• Iterative Feedback: A culture of providing and receiving constructive feedback is essential for refining designs and ensuring optimal user experiences.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of insights, best practices, and learnings across the team and with project stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Barilla's stated values ("progress and excellence," "purpose and passion") are likely reflected in the team's culture. The emphasis on Design Thinking implies a collaborative, empathetic, and iterative approach to problem-solving.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: Effectively translating user insights into designs that also meet Barilla's strategic objectives and brand guidelines.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Navigating differing priorities and perspectives from various departments (e.g., IT, Marketing) to ensure a cohesive platform design.

• Integrating with Existing Systems: Understanding how the new Open Innovation platform will fit within Barilla's broader digital ecosystem and IT infrastructure.

• Rapid Iteration: Working within internship timelines to deliver high-quality design outputs while potentially undergoing multiple rounds of feedback and revision.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Direct guidance from experienced designers and innovation leads within the Global Discovery Center.

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to hone UX/UI design skills, user research techniques, and proficiency in specific design tools.

• Industry Insight: Learning how innovation and digital transformation are managed within a global CPG company.

• Project Impact: Contributing to a tangible project that will be visible within the organization and potentially externally.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for design roles in large organizations, emphasizing the need for adaptability, strong communication, and a results-oriented mindset. The growth opportunities are significant for an internship, offering practical experience and professional development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used Design Thinking to solve a user problem. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a specific case study from your portfolio.)

• "How do you prioritize user needs when they conflict with business requirements or technical limitations?" (Focus on your problem-solving approach and negotiation skills.)

• "Walk me through the user journey map you created for [project name]. What were the key pain points you identified, and how did your design address them?" (Be ready to present and explain your portfolio work in detail.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Barilla Group and our approach to innovation?" (Research their website, recent news, and innovation initiatives.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a cross-functional team focused on digital transformation?" (Highlight your collaboration skills and understanding of diverse team dynamics.)

• "What interests you most about this specific internship role and the Open Innovation platform?" (Connect your passion for design with Barilla's objectives.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of Barilla's context and the internship's goals. Then, present your chosen projects sequentially, clearly outlining the problem, your role, your process (research, ideation, design, testing), key decisions, and outcomes/learnings.

• Visuals: Use high-quality images of wireframes, mockups, prototypes, and user flows. Ensure they are clearly labeled and easy to understand.

• Storytelling: Frame your projects as narratives – the challenge, the journey, and the resolution. Emphasize your thought process and how you overcame obstacles.

• Tool Proficiency: Be ready to demonstrate specific features or workflows within Figma/Adobe XD if asked.

• Engagement: Be prepared for Q&A. Listen carefully to questions and provide thoughtful, specific answers, drawing from your project experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating your design process, demonstrating tool proficiency, and showing an understanding of Barilla's business and its commitment to innovation.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Thinking Internship:

• Submit your application through the Barilla Group careers portal via the provided link.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your Master's degree in a relevant design field, fluency in English and Italian, and any experience with Design Thinking, UX/UI design, user research, and relevant tools (Figma, Adobe XD). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate your best 2-3 design projects, focusing on those that best showcase your UX/UI, Design Thinking, and user research skills. Ensure it is well-organized, visually appealing, and clearly articulates your process and contributions.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio projects, focusing on clear storytelling, articulating your design decisions, and demonstrating your understanding of user-centered design principles.

• Research Barilla: Familiarize yourself with Barilla Group's brands, mission, values, and any recent innovation or digital initiatives. Understand their market position and target audiences.

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