Design Manager - Product Design - Hawthorn East

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Product Design

Company: Coles Group

Location: Hawthorn East, Victoria, Australia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Product Design Management / Digital Operations

Date Posted: August 27, 2025

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and mentor a team of six talented product designers focused on enhancing the customer eCommerce journey.

• Drive the strategic vision for product design, ensuring intuitive and seamless customer experiences across web and app platforms.

• Foster strong partnerships within a triad model, collaborating closely with Product and Engineering leaders to deliver innovative digital solutions.

• Oversee the end-to-end customer experience from basket through to post-purchase, focusing on reducing customer friction and improving usability.

• Champion a data-driven approach to design, utilizing insights to inform strategic decisions and optimize digital touchpoints.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is in Product Design, its emphasis on managing the customer experience, cross-functional collaboration with Product and Engineering, and improving digital platforms aligns closely with the operational aspects of a GTM (Go-To-Market) or Digital Operations function. The focus on process, user flow, and efficiency within the digital product lifecycle is a key component of operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and support a high-performing product design team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

• Provide clear direction, feedback, and coaching to design team members to ensure project milestones and quality standards are met.

• Partner effectively with Product Managers and Engineering Leads in a triad structure to define product strategy, roadmaps, and execution plans.

• Oversee the design of key eCommerce user journeys, including the shopping cart, checkout process, and post-purchase experience, ensuring a seamless and intuitive flow.

• Conduct user research, usability testing, and A/B testing to gather insights and validate design decisions, aiming to reduce customer friction and enhance conversion rates.

• Influence product strategy and roadmap by advocating for user-centered design principles and identifying opportunities for innovation.

• Ensure design consistency and adherence to brand guidelines across all digital touchpoints, including web, mobile app, and other digital channels.

• Manage design resources and project timelines, ensuring efficient delivery of design outputs within an agile development environment.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes, tools, and methodologies within the Digital team.

• Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in eCommerce and product design to drive innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong focus on process management, team performance, cross-functional collaboration, and user experience optimization, all critical in operations-focused roles. The emphasis on driving customer experience improvements through design directly impacts business metrics and operational efficiency.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), UX/UI Design, or a related field. A Master's degree or equivalent practical experience is advantageous.

Experience: 5-10 years of progressive experience in product design, with at least 3 years in a direct design management or team leadership role.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience directly managing and leading a design team of 3 or more individuals, with a track record of developing talent.

• Strong background in eCommerce, demonstrating a deep understanding of online shopping behaviors, conversion rate optimization (CRO), and digital best practices.

• Ability to effectively balance people leadership responsibilities with strategic design direction and vision setting.

• Experience working collaboratively in cross-functional, agile teams, effectively partnering with Product Management, Engineering, and Marketing stakeholders.

• Proficiency in user-centered design principles, user research methodologies, and usability testing techniques.

• Strong understanding of UI design principles, visual design, and interaction design.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and rationale clearly to diverse audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Exposure to logistics, supply chain, or last-mile delivery environments and their impact on customer experience.

• Experience with design systems and their implementation and maintenance.

• Familiarity with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) and data visualization tools to inform design decisions.

• Experience working with A/B testing frameworks and interpreting results to iterate on designs.

• Knowledge of accessibility standards (WCAG) and experience designing inclusive digital products.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive experience requirement and the emphasis on managing a team, driving strategy, and collaborating with product and engineering point to a senior-level operations-adjacent role. The preferred skills in analytics and A/B testing are core to operational efficiency and continuous improvement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of leading design teams through the entire product development lifecycle, from concept to launch.

• Include case studies demonstrating the management of a design team's output, highlighting process improvements and team growth.

• Present evidence of strategic design direction, including how user insights and business goals were translated into actionable design strategies.

• Demonstrate experience in improving key eCommerce metrics such as conversion rates, average order value, or customer satisfaction through design leadership.

Process Documentation:

• Detail your approach to establishing and refining design processes within a team, emphasizing efficiency and quality.

• Illustrate how you foster a culture of continuous improvement and learning within a design team, including feedback mechanisms and skill development plans.

• Showcase experience in implementing design systems or best practices that streamline design operations and ensure consistency.

• Provide examples of how you have managed design projects, including resource allocation, timeline management, and risk mitigation.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating leadership in process, team enablement, and measurable impact on user experience and business metrics is crucial for this role, reflecting the operational rigor expected in managing a design function that directly supports business objectives.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Manager roles in Melbourne, Australia, with 5-10 years of experience and leadership responsibilities in a large retail/eCommerce environment, the estimated salary range is AUD $140,000 - $180,000 per annum. This range considers the significant leadership component, the strategic nature of the role, and the comprehensive benefits package offered.

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Options: Hybrid work arrangements to support work-life balance.

• Office Perks: Access to on-site gym facilities, fitness classes, free parking, BBQ area, and a mini-Coles supermarket.

• Product Sampling: Opportunity to sample new products at the fooderie hub before they are released to the public.

• Team Member Discounts: 5% discount on Supermarket and Liquor purchases (online and in-store), with potential for double discounts (10%) during promotional periods.

• Recognition Program: 'mythanks' platform for peer-to-peer recognition, accumulating points for rewards.

• Learning & Development: Access to career development programs and job-specific training to foster professional growth.

• Paid Parental Leave: Support for permanent team members balancing work and family.

• Team Member Share Plan: Opportunity for eligible team members to purchase Coles Group shares through salary sacrifice.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely around 38-40 hours per week, with flexibility offered due to the hybrid work arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The estimated salary is based on typical compensation for similar management roles in the Australian market, considering the company's scale and industry. The benefits package is extensive and designed to attract and retain talent in a competitive market.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail and Consumer Goods. Coles Group is one of Australia's largest retailers, operating supermarkets, liquor stores, and other related businesses. This industry context means a focus on customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and adapting to evolving consumer trends.

Company Size: Over 115,000 team members worldwide. This indicates a large, established organization with structured processes and a significant impact on the Australian economy.

Founded: 1914. With a long history, Coles Group has a deep understanding of the Australian market and a well-established brand presence.

Team Structure:

• The Digital team is a key growth area for Coles Group, focused on transforming the online shopping experience.

• The Product Design Manager will lead a team of six designers.

• This role operates within a "triad model," implying close collaboration with a Product Manager and Engineering Lead, fostering a unified approach to product development.

Methodology:

• The Digital team is described as "innovative, inclusive, and forward-thinking," suggesting a culture that embraces new ideas and technologies.

• They are "constantly looking at ways to create differentiated, omni-channel experiences," indicating a strategic focus on user journeys across multiple touchpoints.

• Agile methodologies are likely employed, given the mention of partnering with Engineering leaders and the fast-paced nature of digital transformation.

• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the need to strengthen web and app experiences and reduce customer friction, which relies on analytics and user feedback.

Company Website: https://www.colesgroup.com.au/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's scale and history in retail provide a rich context for a Design Manager role focused on operations. The emphasis on digital transformation, omni-channel experiences, and agile methodologies aligns with modern operational practices in customer-facing technology.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior management position within the digital product development function. It's a leadership role that requires both strategic thinking and the ability to manage and develop a team, directly impacting the operational efficiency and success of Coles' eCommerce platforms.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Head of Digital Product, Director of eCommerce, or a similar senior digital leadership role. They will manage a team of six designers and collaborate closely with peers in Product Management and Engineering.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work has a direct impact on the operational efficiency of the eCommerce business by improving user experience, reducing customer friction, and potentially increasing conversion rates. Their leadership influences the quality and effectiveness of the digital product offerings, ultimately driving customer acquisition, retention, and revenue.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into more senior leadership roles within the Digital team, such as Head of Product Design, Director of UX/UI, or Head of Digital Product.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in eCommerce UX, digital strategy, or people management within a large, complex organization.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain broader experience by working across different business units and understanding the operational intricacies of a major retail group.

• Mentorship and Training: Access to Coles Group's extensive learning and development programs, including leadership training, industry conferences, and potential for formal mentorship.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within a large organization, with opportunities to develop both strategic and operational leadership skills pertinent to the digital and retail sectors.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Hawthorn East, Melbourne, and involves a hybrid work arrangement, indicating a modern office environment that balances in-office collaboration with remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): The primary office location is Hawthorn East, Victoria. This location offers various amenities for employees, as detailed in the benefits section.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, with opportunities to interact with design, product, and engineering teams.

• Employees have access to modern office facilities and technology to support their work.

• The hybrid model allows for focused individual work at home and collaborative sessions, brainstorming, and team meetings in the office.

• The environment is likely dynamic, given the focus on digital transformation and innovation within the eCommerce space.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours, with the expectation of flexibility to meet project deadlines and team needs. The hybrid arrangement allows for some control over the work schedule, balancing in-office days with remote work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect of the work environment, reflecting a contemporary approach to employee well-being and productivity, which is increasingly important for attracting talent in operational and design-focused roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your application and resume, likely conducted by an HR representative or recruiter, to assess basic qualifications and fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A conversation with the hiring manager, focusing on your experience in design management, team leadership, and eCommerce. Be prepared to discuss your leadership philosophy and approach to team development.

• Design/Portfolio Review: A session where you present your portfolio to key stakeholders, including senior designers, product leaders, and potentially engineering leads. This is where you'll showcase your strategic thinking, leadership impact, and process improvements.

• Cross-Functional/Triad Interview: An interview with peers from Product Management and Engineering to assess your collaboration skills, ability to work within a triad model, and understanding of agile processes.

• Final Interview/Panel: Potentially a final interview with a more senior leader to assess cultural fit and overall strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by case studies that clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process followed, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes.

• Leadership Focus: Highlight instances where you led a team, mentored designers, and drove strategic design initiatives. Quantify the impact of your leadership on team performance and project success.

• Process Excellence: Showcase your understanding of design operations, including how you've optimized workflows, implemented design systems, or improved team efficiency.

• Business Impact: Clearly articulate how your design leadership has positively impacted key business metrics relevant to eCommerce, such as conversion rates, customer satisfaction, or user task completion.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your work efficiently, focusing on the most relevant examples and key takeaways.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle specific team management scenarios, resolve design conflicts, or approach a new product feature.

• Strategic Thinking: Prepare to discuss your vision for the future of eCommerce design at Coles and how you would address current challenges or opportunities.

• Process Improvement Ideas: Think about potential improvements to Coles' current digital product design processes or customer journeys.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to articulate process and impact through a portfolio. Candidates should prepare to discuss not just design output but also the operational aspects of managing a design function.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), InVision, Axure RP.

• Collaboration & Project Management: Jira, Confluence, Trello, Asana, Miro, Mural.

• User Research & Testing: UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, Hotjar.

• Analytics & Reporting: Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, Amplitude, Tableau, Power BI.

• CRM & Automation: Salesforce (for customer data insights), Marketo (for marketing automation insights).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in using analytics platforms to understand user behavior, track key performance indicators (KPIs), and inform design decisions is crucial.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM management role, understanding how customer data within a CRM influences user experience and how marketing automation impacts customer journeys would be beneficial.

• Familiarity with how design integrates with backend systems and customer data platforms is important for a holistic approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of design tools is expected, but proficiency in analytics, project management, and collaboration platforms is essential for managing the operational aspects of design delivery and ensuring effective cross-functional collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of customers across all digital touchpoints.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on working together across teams (design, product, engineering) to achieve shared goals, breaking down silos.

• Innovation: Encouraging new ideas, experimentation, and a forward-thinking approach to digital product development.

• Efficiency & Effectiveness: A drive to optimize processes, streamline workflows, and deliver high-quality outcomes that meet business objectives.

• Data-Driven Decisions: Utilizing data and insights to inform strategy, validate hypotheses, and measure the impact of design initiatives.

Collaboration Style:

• Triad Model Partnership: Close, integrated collaboration with Product Managers and Engineering Leads, sharing ownership and decision-making.

• Agile Environment: Working within agile sprints, participating in ceremonies like stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives.

• Cross-Functional Engagement: Regular interaction with marketing, data, operations, and other business units to ensure a cohesive and effective customer experience.

• Feedback Culture: An open environment for giving and receiving constructive feedback to foster continuous improvement within the design team and across product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and customer focus, which are all critical components of successful operations management, even within a design leadership context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scale of Operations: Managing design for a large eCommerce platform with millions of users presents complexity in terms of user needs, technical constraints, and stakeholder management.

• Pace of Change: The digital retail landscape evolves rapidly; staying ahead of trends and continuously innovating requires agility and strategic foresight.

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Mediating between various stakeholder requirements (business, technical, user) to deliver optimal design solutions.

• Team Development: Continuously upskilling and motivating a design team to maintain high performance and adapt to new tools and methodologies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Training: Access to Coles Group's comprehensive leadership development programs.

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend relevant industry conferences, workshops, and webinars focused on digital product design, eCommerce, and leadership.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within Coles Group or participate in formal mentorship programs.

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in areas like UX strategy, design systems, accessibility, or advanced user research.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for growth within a large organization, with challenges that push professional development in areas critical to operational leadership and digital product strategy.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach building and developing a high-performing product design team from a talent and process perspective?" (Focus on hiring, onboarding, performance management, and process optimization).

• "Describe a time you had to align a design vision with conflicting stakeholder requirements. What was your process and outcome?" (Demonstrate negotiation, communication, and strategic alignment skills).

• "How do you ensure a seamless and intuitive customer experience across a complex eCommerce journey, specifically from the basket to post-purchase?" (Focus on user flow analysis, friction reduction, and customer journey mapping).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about Coles Group's digital transformation and your potential role in it?" (Research recent Coles initiatives, digital strategy, and show genuine interest).

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within a cross-functional team (triad model)?" (Discuss communication strategies, shared goals, and conflict resolution).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your portfolio presentations with a clear beginning (problem), middle (solution/process), and end (results/impact).

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly state the metrics you influenced (e.g., "Increased conversion rate by X%", "Reduced cart abandonment by Y%", "Improved user satisfaction score by Z points").

• Leadership Emphasis: Highlight your role as a leader, not just an individual contributor. Discuss how you guided your team, made strategic decisions, and managed processes.

• Relevance: Tailor your presentation to the specific requirements of the Coles role, emphasizing eCommerce experience and leadership.

• Conciseness: Practice your presentation to ensure it fits within the allotted time, focusing on the most impactful information.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for these types of questions will showcase your understanding of design operations, leadership capabilities, and strategic thinking relevant to the business objectives of Coles Group.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided URL on the Coles Careers website.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is tailored to highlight your experience in managing design teams, driving eCommerce UX improvements, and collaborating in agile, cross-functional environments. Focus on case studies that demonstrate leadership impact and measurable business outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your years of experience in design management and eCommerce. Use keywords from the job description such as "Product Design Manager," "eCommerce," "Customer Experience," "Team Leadership," "Agile," and "Cross-Functional Collaboration." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Coles Group's current digital initiatives, recent news, and their approach to customer experience. Understand their brand values and how your leadership style aligns with their culture.

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Anticipate questions about your leadership style, conflict resolution, team motivation, and how you handle challenges in a fast-paced environment. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

⚠️ 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.

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