Experience & Design Strategist (m/w/d), Wien | Senior Consultant – Senior Manager Level

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Experience & Design Strategist (m/w/d) - Senior Consultant – Senior Manager Level

Company: TOWA GmbH

Location: Wien, Austria

Job Type: Festanstellung (Full-time)

Category: Digital Transformation Consulting / Experience Strategy

Date Posted: June 23, 2026

Experience Level: Senior to Senior Manager

Remote Status: Remote OK (Hybrid model with optional office presence)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end Experience and Design Strategy for complex digital transformation consulting projects.

• Translate intricate B2B business models and use cases into clear, actionable experience principles and cohesive design visions.

• Act as the central orchestrator, ensuring seamless integration between strategy, content, design, and technology workstreams to deliver a consistent and impactful customer experience.

• Drive innovation through AI-native workflows, leveraging generative tools to augment creative processes and identify optimal solutions.

• Foster a culture of continuous improvement and client challenge, pushing for impactful and forward-thinking solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges strategic consulting with a strong design-centric approach. The emphasis on "AI-native" and "generative tools" indicates a modern, forward-thinking operational methodology. The "Senior Consultant – Senior Manager Level" designation suggests significant client-facing responsibilities, strategic ownership, and potential team leadership or mentorship. The target audience for this role is likely experienced professionals who can operate autonomously and influence client strategy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the development and execution of Experience and Design Strategy across diverse consulting projects, encompassing Brand Experience, Brand Identity, Customer Experience (CX), Customer Journeys, Service Design, and Information Architecture.

• Provide strategic advisory from a designer's perspective, translating complex business models, B2B logics, and use cases into well-defined experience principles and a compelling project vision.

• Maintain cohesive workstreams by ensuring alignment between strategy, content, design, and technology, acting as the central thread that ensures a consistent end-to-end customer experience.

• Expertly apply and facilitate methodologies such as Design Thinking, Ideation, Co-Creation Workshops, Jobs-to-be-Done (JTBD), and Service Blueprints to drive project outcomes.

• Make abstract ideas tangible through compelling storytelling, effective visualization, and multi-fidelity prototyping to align teams and clients, thereby facilitating informed decision-making.

• Uphold high-quality standards while embracing exploration, iteration, and innovation, proactively challenging clients when necessary for optimal strategic alignment.

• Cultivate the growth of colleagues through constructive critique, close collaboration, and visible craft leadership within the design team.

• Integrate AI-native workflows, defining intent for generative tools to explore options and applying critical judgment to select high-quality, production-ready outputs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic thinking, creative execution, and project management within a consulting framework. The emphasis on "holding workstreams together" and being the "red thread" points to a critical integration role. The "AI-native" requirement suggests familiarity with leveraging AI tools for design and strategy tasks, which is a key differentiator.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Business Strategy, Marketing, or a related field is typically expected for this level.

Experience: A proven track record in Experience Strategy and/or Design Strategy, with significant experience in agency or consulting environments. For Senior Manager level, extensive experience leading large-scale engagements and complex client relationships is crucial.

Required Skills:

• Extensive experience in Experience Strategy and/or Design Strategy, preferably within an agency or consulting setting.

• Deep understanding of Brand Experience, CX, Service Design, and Information Architecture, with a systems-thinking approach to creating cohesive experiences.

• Mastery of design methodologies including Design Thinking, Ideation, Co-Creation Workshops, Jobs-to-be-Done (JTBD), and Service Blueprints, with the acumen to select the most impactful format for any given situation.

• Strong strategic comprehension of complex business models, particularly B2B logics, use cases, and stakeholder dynamics, with the ability to translate these into concrete experience decisions.

• Exceptional storytelling and co-creation capabilities, effectively articulating complex ideas clearly, visually, and actionably for both internal teams and executive stakeholders.

• Proven ability to drive projects forward and provide clear direction to teams and clients, even in ambiguous or uncertain situations.

• Proficiency in AI-native workflows and the ability to leverage generative AI tools for ideation, content generation, and solution exploration.

• Excellent command of both German and English languages, essential for client interactions and team collaboration within the DACH region and internationally. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific technologies and platforms relevant to digital transformation (e.g., CRM, CMS, e-commerce platforms, marketing automation tools).

• Familiarity with agile project management methodologies.

• Experience in mentoring or leading junior design strategists or consultants.

• A strong portfolio showcasing impactful design strategy work and successful project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Fundierter Track Record" and "breites Design-Fundament" clearly indicate a need for seasoned professionals. The explicit mention of B2B models and DACH region focus provides crucial context for tailoring applications. The "AI-native" skill is a forward-looking requirement that candidates should highlight if they have experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio demonstrating a strong track record in Experience and/or Design Strategy, ideally showcasing work within agency or consulting environments.

• Specific case studies that illustrate the ability to translate complex business models into clear experience principles and cohesive design visions.

• Examples of how you have managed and integrated different workstreams (strategy, content, design, technology) to ensure a consistent end-to-end customer experience.

• Demonstrations of expertise in applying methodologies like Design Thinking, JTBD, and Service Blueprints, with clear articulation of the process and outcomes.

• Visualizations and prototypes at various fidelity levels that effectively communicate complex ideas and facilitate client decision-making.

• Evidence of how you have challenged clients and pushed for innovative solutions, even in ambiguous situations. Process Documentation:

• Showcase your ability to document and articulate design strategy processes, including workshop facilitation, user journey mapping, and service blueprinting.

• Provide examples of how you have defined and managed AI-native workflows, detailing the intent, tools used, and the resulting impact.

• Illustrate your approach to iterative development and quality assurance in design strategy projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role at this level, the portfolio is critical. It needs to showcase not just the final output but the strategic thinking, process, and measurable impact. The emphasis on "AI-native" workflows requires candidates to think about how to represent this in their portfolio.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: €60,000 - €130,000 gross per year (All-in), depending on experience, skills, and responsibility level. This range aligns with the "Werbung & Marktkommunikation Wien" collective agreement for Senior to Senior Manager levels in consulting.

Benefits:

• Team Spirit & Collaboration: Collegial teams with genuine cohesion, mutual support, and a positive atmosphere.

• Transparent Structures: Flat hierarchies and an open-door policy fostering direct, peer-level communication.

• Open Vacation Policy: Statutory vacation days plus additional "Above & Beyond" days for extra time off.

• Work from Anywhere: Flexibility to work from home or temporarily abroad.

• Flexible Working Hours: Generous flextime with reliability for client and team meetings.

• Flexible Employment Models: Options for full-time or part-time, permanent or fixed-term positions.

• Impactful Projects: Engaging, innovative, and varied projects with a steep learning curve, contributing to real progress.

• Growth Guaranteed: Individual training budget for workshops, certifications, or coaching.

• Career Paths: Clear structures for development even within a flat hierarchy.

• Mobility & Events: Up to €467 for public transport/Germany ticket, regular team events, and industry event attendance.

• Modern Offices: Centrally located, well-equipped loft offices conducive to collaboration, idea generation, and casual interaction with snacks and drinks.

• Performance Rewards: A system to reward personal and company successes.

Working Hours: Standard full-time (40 hours/week) with a generous flextime framework, allowing individuals to set their rhythm while ensuring availability for crucial client and team meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is explicitly provided and includes all-in compensation, which is typical for consulting roles. The benefits list is extensive and emphasizes flexibility, professional development, and work-life balance, which are attractive to experienced professionals. The "AI-generated salary" note is crucial for context.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Transformation Consulting, B2B Technology, Marketing & Communications.

Company Size: The provided data doesn't specify exact employee numbers, but the mention of multiple international locations (Bregenz, Vienna, Hamburg, Hamburg, Munich, Dortmund, Krakow, remote) and a focus on "B2B Champions" suggests a medium to large-sized, established consultancy.

Founded: The company's founding date is not provided, but their established presence and focus on digital transformation indicate a company that has evolved with the digital landscape.

Team Structure:

• The "Consulting Cluster" with "Senior to Senior Manager Level" roles suggests a structured but potentially agile team environment.

• The role reports to Julius Wuhnsen, who is described as a "Lead," implying a direct reporting line and mentorship.

• Collaboration is emphasized across strategy, content, design, and technology, indicating cross-functional teamwork is integral.

• The mention of "Craft Leadership within the design team" suggests a focus on expertise and mentorship within specialized groups. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Strategy: The company emphasizes "measurable progress and real impact," indicating a data-informed approach to strategy and execution.

• Holistic Thinking: They approach digital transformation end-to-end, from strategy to execution, integrating various disciplines.

• Agile & Iterative: The "Alles ist BETA" philosophy and emphasis on exploration and iteration suggest an agile and adaptive operational approach.

• AI-Native Integration: A key methodological component is the integration of AI tools into workflows for enhanced efficiency and creativity.

Company Website: www.towa-digital.at

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is characterized by a passion for digital transformation, a focus on tangible impact, and a commitment to continuous learning and innovation. The "Alles ist BETA" philosophy underscores a proactive and experimental approach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role sits at the Senior Consultant to Senior Manager level within the consulting cluster. It requires significant autonomy, strategic ownership, and the ability to lead client engagements. At the Senior Manager level, responsibilities may extend to managing larger projects, client relationships, and potentially leading teams.

Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to Julius Wuhnsen, a Lead within the company. This suggests a clear reporting line and opportunities for direct mentorship and guidance. The flat hierarchy mentioned in the benefits also indicates open communication channels.

Operations Impact: The role is central to TOWA's mission of driving digital transformation for their clients. The Experience & Design Strategist directly influences the strategic direction of projects, shaping how clients engage with their customers and achieve measurable business progress and real impact. This involves translating strategic objectives into tangible, user-centric experiences.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of Experience Strategy, Service Design, or AI-driven design through project work and the provided training budget.

• Leadership Development: Progress to Senior Manager roles, taking on larger client engagements, team leadership responsibilities, and potentially business development.

• Cross-Functional Expertise: Gain exposure to various technology partnerships (Spryker, Salesforce, HubSpot, etc.) and develop a broader understanding of digital transformation ecosystems.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior team members and contribute to the "Craft Leadership" within the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The progression from Senior Consultant to Senior Manager indicates a clear career path within the company. The emphasis on continuous learning and impact-driven work provides a strong foundation for professional growth.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern loft offices, centrally located, designed for collaboration, idea generation, and informal interaction.

Office Location(s): Wien (Vienna), Austria is the primary location specified. Other listed locations include Bregenz, Hamburg, Munich, Dortmund, and Krakow, suggesting a geographically diverse organization with opportunities for remote or hybrid work.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Offices are designed to foster exchange and creativity, with ample space for brainstorming and team interaction.

• Technology & Tools: While not explicitly listed for the workspace, the company's focus on digital transformation and partnerships with various tech vendors implies access to modern digital tools and infrastructure.

• Team Interaction: The "Open-Door Policy" and emphasis on team spirit suggest a supportive and accessible work environment. The "Work from anywhere" benefit further defines the flexibility.

Work Schedule: Flexible working hours with a generous flextime framework are provided, allowing individuals to manage their schedules effectively. However, reliability for client and team meetings is expected, indicating a balance between flexibility and operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment at TOWA emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and a modern, creative atmosphere. The combination of well-equipped offices and extensive remote work options caters to diverse working preferences.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Submission of CV, compensation expectations, and notice period/start date. Emphasis will be placed on the candidate's track record and alignment with the role's strategic and design requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation: A key stage will involve presenting a portfolio, likely showcasing case studies of successful Experience and Design Strategy projects. This will include demonstrating strategic thinking, process adherence (including AI-native workflows), and measurable impact.

• Case Study/Challenge: Candidates may be given a hypothetical or real-world problem to solve, requiring them to outline their strategic approach, methodology, and potential solutions, possibly involving a presentation.

• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Discussions focusing on strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, collaboration style, cultural fit, and leadership potential. Interviews with Julius Wuhnsen (Lead) and potentially other team members are expected.

• Final Evaluation: Assessment based on strategic capability, design acumen, client-facing skills, AI integration proficiency, and overall fit with TOWA's culture and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Strategic Impact: Clearly articulate the business problem, your strategic approach, the methodologies used (especially Design Thinking, JTBD, AI-native), and the measurable outcomes achieved. Quantify results wherever possible (e.g., improved conversion rates, increased customer satisfaction scores).

• Showcase Process: Detail your thought process, from initial research and ideation to concept development and final execution. Demonstrate how you integrate strategy, content, design, and technology.

• Demonstrate AI Proficiency: Include examples of how you've leveraged AI tools in your strategy or design process. Explain the specific intent, the tools used, and the value they added.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience with B2B models, complex business challenges, and end-to-end experience design. Showcase your ability to bridge strategy and execution.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your portfolio is visually appealing, well-organized, and easy to navigate. Use clear language and compelling visuals.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand TOWA's Philosophy: Familiarize yourself with their "Alles ist BETA" mindset, focus on end-to-end digital transformation, and commitment to measurable impact.

• B2B Case Studies: Prepare to discuss or analyze B2B scenarios, client challenges, and strategic solutions within the DACH region context.

• Methodology Application: Be ready to explain how you would apply Design Thinking, JTBD, Service Blueprints, and AI-native approaches to a given challenge.

• Storytelling: Practice articulating your thought process and solutions concisely and persuasively, as if presenting to a client.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a portfolio-driven approach, which is standard for design and strategy roles. The specific mention of "AI-native" workflows means candidates should be prepared to discuss this aspect in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Strategy & Collaboration: Tools for Design Thinking, Ideation, Co-Creation Workshops, JTBD, Service Blueprints (e.g., Miro, Mural, Figma, Adobe Creative Suite).

• AI & Generative Tools: Proficiency with AI-native workflows and generative tools for ideation, content creation, and solution exploration (specific tools not listed, but candidates should be knowledgeable in this emerging area).

• Prototyping Tools: Tools for creating visualizations and prototypes at various fidelity levels (e.g., Figma, Sketch, InVision, Adobe XD).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus of this role, an understanding of how to leverage analytics to inform strategy and measure impact is beneficial. This might include familiarity with web analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics) and BI tools. CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot) and marketing automation platforms can be advantageous given the company's technology partnerships and client focus.

• Experience with CMS platforms (e.g., Storyblok) and e-commerce platforms (e.g., Spryker, Pimcore) is also relevant.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on AI-native workflows suggests that familiarity with current AI tools and platforms in design and strategy will be a significant advantage. The company's partnerships also indicate potential exposure to a broad tech stack.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Impact & Progress: A core value is driving "measurable progress and real impact" for clients. Operations professionals are expected to focus on outcomes.

• Innovation & Exploration: The "Alles ist BETA" philosophy encourages a culture of experimentation, pushing boundaries, and embracing new ideas.

• Holistic Approach: Valuing end-to-end thinking and the integration of strategy, design, and technology.

• Collaboration & Ownership: Fostering a strong team spirit where individuals take ownership and support each other.

• Client Partnership: Building strong relationships with clients and challenging them to achieve the best results.

• Continuous Learning: Encouraging personal and professional development through training and challenging projects.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Strong emphasis on seamless collaboration between strategy, content, design, and technology teams.

• Open Communication: A "gelebte Open-Door-Mentalität" and flat hierarchies promote direct and honest communication.

• Feedback Culture: Valuing constructive critique and mutual support for continuous improvement.

• Co-Creation: Actively involving clients and internal teams in the creative and strategic process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is forward-thinking, client-centric, and highly collaborative, with a strong emphasis on delivering tangible results through innovative approaches.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex B2B Landscapes: Translating intricate business models and stakeholder needs into user-centric experiences requires deep strategic insight and strong communication skills.

• Integrating AI-Native Workflows: Effectively leveraging emerging AI technologies to enhance strategy and design processes while maintaining quality and ethical standards.

• Balancing Strategy with Execution: Ensuring that strategic vision is consistently translated into tangible design and technical execution across multiple workstreams.

• Client Expectation Management: Proactively managing client expectations and challenging them constructively to achieve optimal outcomes.

• Staying Ahead of the Curve: Continuously adapting to rapid changes in digital technologies, AI, and user experience trends.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to an individual training budget for workshops, certifications, and coaching in areas like AI in design, advanced CX strategies, or specific technology platforms.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend industry conferences, workshops, and events to stay abreast of the latest trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship & Leadership: Learning from experienced leads like Julius Wuhnsen and potentially developing leadership skills through mentoring junior colleagues.

• Diverse Project Experience: Working on a variety of projects for "B2B Champions" across different industries provides broad exposure and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for growth in a dynamic field, particularly in the rapidly evolving area of AI integration within design and strategy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you translated a complex B2B business model into a clear experience strategy. What was your process, and what was the impact?"

• "How do you ensure alignment across strategy, content, design, and technology workstreams in a project? Walk us through your approach."

• "Can you provide an example of how you've used AI-native workflows or generative tools in a design or strategy project? What were the benefits and challenges?"

• "How do you approach challenging a client's assumptions or pushing them towards a more innovative solution, especially when they are comfortable with the status quo?"

• "Describe your experience with Design Thinking, JTBD, or Service Blueprints. When would you choose one over the other?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about TOWA's 'Alles ist BETA' philosophy and your focus on end-to-end digital transformation?"

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, and what is your approach to mentorship or craft leadership?"

• "Based on our company description, how do you see your skills and experience aligning with our mission to make clients digitally successful?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the strategic approach, the methodologies used (especially AI-native), the challenges faced, and the quantifiable results.

• Highlight Strategic Contribution: Emphasize your role in defining the strategy and vision, not just executing design tasks. Show how you connected business objectives with user needs.

• Demonstrate AI Integration: Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've used AI tools in your workflow, the intent behind their use, and the impact on efficiency or creativity.

• Visual Storytelling: Use clear, impactful visuals (mockups, journey maps, prototypes) to support your narrative.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Practice presenting your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most relevant and impactful aspects for this specific role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate strategic thinking, a deep understanding of design methodologies, and practical experience with AI integration. The portfolio presentation is a crucial opportunity to showcase these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Experience & Design Strategist position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the TOWA GmbH careers page.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your experience in Experience Strategy, Design Strategy, B2B contexts, and ideally, AI-native workflows. Ensure each case study clearly outlines the problem, your strategic approach, methodologies used, and measurable outcomes.

• Optimize Your CV: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "Experience Strategy," "Design Strategy," "Customer Experience," "Service Design," "AI-native," "B2B," and "Consulting." Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through your portfolio with a focus on storytelling and demonstrating your strategic thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to integrate complex elements. Be ready to discuss your approach to AI in design.

• Research TOWA GmbH: Understand their mission, values ("Alles ist BETA"), key technology partners, and recent work. This will help you tailor your application and articulate your fit with their culture and approach.

⚠️ 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.