Senior Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Design Manager Company: Capgemini (frog) Location: Mumbai (ex Bombay), India Job Type: Full-Time Category: Design & Strategy Operations Date Posted: 2025-07-29 Experience Level: 12+ Years Remote Status: Remote OK

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead high-performing project teams in delivering innovative design solutions, balancing quality, timelines, and team harmony.
• Drive business development efforts for frog within the Capgemini Invent ecosystem, expanding the firm's reputation and client base.
• Provide discipline leadership in human-centered design, setting quality benchmarks and guiding the development of experience strategies and models.
• Foster strong client relationships and business growth through strategic project leadership and impactful design contributions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Design Manager," the description clearly positions this role within a strategy and consulting context, emphasizing business development and project leadership. The "Operations" aspect relates to the management and execution of design projects and client engagements within a consulting framework, rather than traditional back-office operations. The focus on "human-centred design" and "experience model development" aligns with strategic GTM operations that drive client value.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage project teams throughout the entire design lifecycle, ensuring high performance, adherence to timelines, and positive team dynamics.
• Define and uphold rigorous quality standards for all design deliverables, including qualitative research, insight articulation, experience models (e.g., customer journeys, service blueprints), and design testing.
• Drive the development of actionable insights, identify key opportunity areas, and envision innovative concepts in collaboration with clients and project teams.
• Establish and manage customer/user feedback loops through iterative build-test-learn cycles to continuously refine and improve design outcomes.
• Contribute to business development activities, including client engagement, proposal development, and identifying new opportunities to expand frog's service offerings and impact.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to junior design staff, fostering their professional development and contributing to the overall growth of the design discipline within frog.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of project delivery, team leadership, and business growth, typical of senior roles in design consultancies. The emphasis on "quality standards," "insight articulation," and "experience model development" points to a need for structured, data-informed design processes, which are core to operational excellence in a creative services environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Business, or a related field is typically expected, though extensive relevant experience can often substitute formal education.

Experience: A minimum of 12 years of professional consulting experience in human-centered design, with a proven track record in leading and delivering complex design projects.

Required Skills:

• Extensive experience in human-centered design "thinking and doing," encompassing areas such as Visual Design, Interaction Design, Service Design, Product Design, Design Strategy, or Experience Design.
• Exceptional leadership and collaboration skills, with a demonstrated ability to guide and influence high-performing teams using persuasion rather than command-and-control methods.
• Proven ability to set and maintain high-quality standards for design deliverables, ensuring alignment with client goals, business requirements, and project constraints.
• Strong capabilities in conducting qualitative foundational and evaluative research, articulating insights, and developing comprehensive experience models.
• Demonstrated success in leading and contributing to the creation of meaningful customer/user feedback loops through build-test-learn cycles.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with clients, stakeholders, and internal teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in business development within a consulting or agency environment.
• Familiarity with design systems, agile methodologies, and modern product development lifecycles.
• A strong portfolio showcasing a broad range of design leadership and impactful contributions to experience strategies, design systems, products, services, and customer experiences that deliver measurable business results.
• Affinity with frog's values and a passion for creating solutions that address both functional and emotional human needs.
• Experience with Generative AI technologies and their application in design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 12+ years of experience and the emphasis on leadership, business development, and client engagement suggest a senior strategic role. The "operations" aspect here is about managing the design process and client engagements effectively to drive business outcomes.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A robust portfolio demonstrating a minimum of 12 years of professional human-centered design experience, showcasing leadership in project execution and business development.
• Evidence of leading design projects from concept to completion, highlighting your role in research, insight articulation, experience model development, and iterative testing.
• Case studies that clearly articulate the problem, your approach, the solutions developed, and the tangible business results achieved for clients.
• Examples of your ability to foster strong client relationships and contribute to business growth through design consulting.
• Documentation of your leadership style and ability to guide and mentor design teams effectively.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in defining and standardizing design processes, including methodologies for qualitative research, insight synthesis, and experience mapping.
• Provide examples of how you have implemented build-test-learn cycles and customer feedback loops to drive continuous improvement in design outcomes.
• Demonstrate familiarity with project management methodologies and tools used to manage design projects efficiently and effectively.
• Include examples of how you have contributed to the development or refinement of design systems and best practices within an organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior Design Manager role in a consulting firm like frog, a portfolio is crucial. It should not only showcase design skills but also leadership, strategic thinking, client management, and business development capabilities. The emphasis is on demonstrating impact and process maturity.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a Senior Design Manager role with 12+ years of experience in Mumbai, India, the estimated annual salary range would typically be between ₹2,000,000 and ₹4,000,000 (INR). This range can vary based on the specific project, client, and the candidate's precise experience and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Support for remote work and flexible work hours to promote a healthy work-life balance.
• Career Growth Programs: Access to a wide array of career development programs and diverse professional opportunities within frog and Capgemini.
• Professional Development: Opportunities to gain valuable certifications in emerging technologies, such as Generative AI.
• Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health insurance, wellness programs, and potential for paid time off.
• Retirement Savings: Contributions to provident funds or other retirement savings plans.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours are typically around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered to accommodate project needs and work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior consulting roles in Mumbai, India, considering the experience level and the specialized nature of design leadership. Benefits are derived from the provided text and common industry offerings for large consulting firms.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Design Consulting / Digital Transformation Services. frog is part of Capgemini Invent, a global leader in consulting, digital transformation, technology, and engineering services, providing a broad spectrum of expertise. Company Size: Capgemini is a global enterprise with tens of thousands of employees worldwide. frog itself operates as a network of studios, fostering a culture that balances large-scale organizational support with studio-specific vibrancy. Founded: frog was founded in 1969, with Capgemini acquiring it in 2021. This provides a rich history in design innovation coupled with the resources of a global powerhouse.

Team Structure:

• The Senior Design Manager will likely lead project-specific teams composed of various design disciplines (e.g., Service Designers, Interaction Designers, Visual Designers) and potentially cross-functional Capgemini Invent teams.
• Reporting lines would typically be to a Studio Lead, Practice Lead, or a Senior Partner within frog or Capgemini Invent.
• Collaboration is expected to be high, both within the immediate project team and across different studios and Capgemini service lines to leverage broader expertise.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Emphasis on leveraging qualitative and quantitative data to derive actionable insights, inform design decisions, and measure impact.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Implementing structured design processes and project management techniques to ensure efficient and effective project delivery.
• Automation & Efficiency: Utilizing tools and best practices to streamline workflows, enhance collaboration, and improve overall operational efficiency in design execution.

Company Website: https://www.frogdesign.com/ and https://www.capgemini.com/invent/

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding frog's integration into Capgemini Invent is key. It means leveraging global resources while maintaining a distinct creative and human-centered culture. The "operations" are embedded in how design projects are managed, delivered, and how client relationships are nurtured for business growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a senior leadership level within the design and consulting operations. It requires significant experience in managing complex projects, leading teams, and contributing to business growth. The "operations" focus is on the strategic management of design engagements and client portfolios. Reporting Structure: The Senior Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Partner within frog/Capgemini Invent, with direct reports or project team members working under their guidance. This structure emphasizes leadership and mentorship. Operations Impact: The role's impact on revenue operations is significant, as successful project delivery, client satisfaction, and business development directly contribute to the company's financial performance and market reputation. The manager's ability to operationalize design processes effectively drives efficiency and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in consulting operations, project management, client relationship management, and business development within a global organization.
• Leadership Development: Progress into roles with broader responsibility, such as Studio Lead, Head of Practice, or Partner, overseeing larger teams and strategic initiatives.
• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific industry verticals or emerging technologies (e.g., Generative AI, sustainable design) to become a thought leader.
• Cross-functional Mobility: Leverage Capgemini's vast network for opportunities in strategy consulting, digital transformation, or other related fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path is geared towards leadership within a consulting framework, where operational excellence in project delivery and business growth are paramount. The "operations" aspect is directly tied to client success and revenue generation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: frog operates a network of studios, which are designed to be vibrant, collaborative, and creative environments. While remote work is supported, the studio spaces are central to the company's culture and client engagement. Office Location(s): The role is based in Mumbai, India, indicating a presence within a key business hub. Workspace Context:

• The workspace is expected to be highly collaborative, encouraging interaction among designers, strategists, and clients.
• Access to state-of-the-art tools and technologies supporting design, research, and collaboration will be provided.
• Opportunities for informal and formal knowledge sharing, brainstorming sessions, and cross-pollination of ideas are integral to the studio culture.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is common, the nature of consulting often involves project-driven demands, requiring flexibility. The company emphasizes flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is a blend of a creative studio culture and the professional discipline of a global consulting firm. Flexibility is a key component, reflecting a modern approach to work that prioritizes outcomes and employee well-being.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely involves an HR or recruiter screening to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager/Studio Lead Interview: Focus on leadership experience, project management capabilities, business development acumen, and understanding of human-centered design principles.
• Portfolio Review: A critical stage where candidates present their work, demonstrating leadership, strategic thinking, process, and impact. Expect detailed questions about project challenges, solutions, and outcomes.
• Team/Peer Interviews: Opportunities to meet potential team members and assess collaboration style and cultural alignment.
• Case Study/Design Challenge: Candidates may be asked to complete a short design exercise or present a strategic approach to a hypothetical client problem to assess problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
• Final Interview: Often with a senior leader to discuss overall fit, career aspirations, and compensation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your leadership, project management, business development contributions, and impact on client business results. Include a mix of strategic, conceptual, and execution-focused work.
• Structure for Clarity: For each project, clearly outline the client's challenge, your specific role and responsibilities, the design process followed, key decisions made, solutions developed, and quantifiable outcomes.
• Emphasize Leadership & Process: Highlight how you led teams, managed stakeholders, navigated constraints, and optimized design processes for efficiency and quality.
• Storytelling: Present your work as compelling narratives that demonstrate your strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design choices, trade-offs, and how you measured success.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand Frog's Approach: Research frog's design philosophy, case studies, and recent work to align your thinking with their methodologies.
• Business Acumen: Be ready to discuss business challenges, market trends, and how design can drive tangible business outcomes.
• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you handle team dynamics, conflict resolution, and client management in challenging situations.
• Strategic Thinking: Practice articulating your approach to complex problems, demonstrating foresight and a holistic view of solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is rigorous, focusing heavily on a candidate's ability to lead, strategize, and deliver business value through design. The portfolio review is a cornerstone, requiring a demonstration of both creative excellence and operational effectiveness.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, XD), Protopie.
• Research & Synthesis: Miro, Mural, Dovetail, UserTesting.com, SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics.
• Project Management & Collaboration: Jira, Asana, Trello, Slack, Microsoft Teams.
• CRM & Business Development: Salesforce (or similar CRM), Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint for proposals and presentations).
• Analytics & Reporting: Google Analytics, Tableau, Power BI (for understanding user behavior and business impact).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in analyzing user research data, customer feedback, and market trends to inform design strategy.
• Ability to track and report on project KPIs and business outcomes, demonstrating the value of design initiatives.

CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with CRM systems for client management and business development tracking.
• Understanding of how design processes can be integrated with broader business workflows and potentially automated where applicable.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, a Senior Design Manager in this environment needs to be proficient in a wide range of design, research, collaboration, and project management tools, demonstrating operational fluency across the design lifecycle.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centered: A core value driving all design and business decisions, ensuring solutions meet genuine user needs and create positive experiences.
• Collaboration: Fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teams work together seamlessly to achieve common goals.
• Curiosity & Courage: Encouraging a mindset of continuous learning, exploration, and the bravery to challenge the status quo.
• Excellence & Impact: A commitment to delivering high-quality work that not only delights users but also achieves significant business results and market impact.
• Positivity & Community: Cultivating an inclusive, supportive, and engaging workplace where individuals feel valued and motivated.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with Capgemini Invent teams (e.g., strategy, technology, data) to deliver end-to-end solutions for clients.
• Client Partnership: Building strong, trust-based relationships with clients, acting as a strategic partner and advisor.
• Feedback & Iteration: Embracing a culture of constructive feedback and iterative improvement, both within teams and with clients.
• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in sharing best practices, insights, and learnings across the frog network and Capgemini.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at frog is a blend of creative innovation and client-centric consulting. The values emphasize a holistic approach to design and business, where operational effectiveness is key to achieving impactful results.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Diverse Needs: Effectively managing the expectations of multiple stakeholders (clients, internal teams, users) while maintaining design integrity and project timelines.
• Driving Business Growth: Consistently contributing to business development efforts and securing new client engagements in a competitive market.
• Navigating Complexity: Leading projects in complex business environments, requiring adaptability and strategic problem-solving.
• Talent Development: Mentoring and growing a team of designers, ensuring continuous skill development and engagement.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Thought Leadership: Opportunities to contribute to industry publications, speak at conferences, and shape the future of design practice.
• Advanced Certifications: Pursuing certifications in areas like Generative AI, advanced analytics, or specific business strategy frameworks.
• Global Exposure: Working on diverse projects across different industries and geographies within the Capgemini network.
• Leadership Mentorship: Access to senior leaders and mentors within frog and Capgemini for guidance on career progression and strategic leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle significant challenges in the design and consulting landscape, with ample support for professional growth and skill enhancement within a global organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a design project that significantly impacted a client's business objectives. What were the key metrics of success, and how did you measure them?" (Focus on ROI, business impact, and metric-driven outcomes.)
• "How do you approach building and leading a high-performing, collaborative design team, especially in a remote or hybrid setting?" (Highlight leadership style, team motivation, conflict resolution, and collaboration tools.)
• "Walk us through your process for developing an experience strategy or a customer journey map for a complex client challenge. What were the key considerations and deliverables?" (Demonstrate strategic thinking, process rigor, and stakeholder management.)
• "How do you identify and pursue new business opportunities within a client account or through strategic partnerships?" (Showcase business development acumen and client relationship skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to frog and Capgemini Invent, and how do you see yourself contributing to our culture and values?" (Research frog's values, recent work, and Capgemini's mission.)
• "How do you stay current with emerging design trends and technologies, such as Generative AI, and how would you integrate them into your projects?" (Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and innovation.)
• "Describe your experience working in a consulting environment and how you manage client expectations and deliver on project commitments." (Highlight professionalism, client-centricity, and operational discipline.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Craft a compelling story for each project, starting with the client's challenge, detailing your strategic approach and leadership, showcasing key design solutions, and concluding with the measurable business impact.
• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is visually engaging, clean, and easy to follow. Use high-quality mockups, prototypes, and data visualizations.
• Role Clarity: Explicitly state your role and contributions within each project, especially if it was a team effort.
• Metrics Focus: Be ready to discuss the KPIs used to measure success and present the ROI or business value generated by your work.
• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your design decisions, problem-solving approach, and how you handled specific challenges or feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for this role involves showcasing not just design talent but also strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and a strong understanding of how design drives business outcomes in a consulting context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Design Manager position:

• Visit the Capgemini careers portal and submit your application through the provided link.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating leadership in human-centered design, business development contributions, and measurable client impact. Focus on case studies that show your ability to lead teams and manage complex design processes.
• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 12+ years of relevant experience, emphasizing leadership roles, project successes, and business development achievements using keywords like "human-centered design," "project leadership," "business development," and "client management."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, leadership philosophy, and business impact strategies. Prepare specific examples for common interview questions related to team leadership, client engagement, and driving business results.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research frog and Capgemini Invent, understanding their values, recent projects, and strategic priorities, especially concerning digital transformation and design innovation.

⚠️ 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.