Senior UI Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UI Designer

Company: VML Enterprise Solutions

Location: Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Creative & Design / Digital Experience

Date Posted: 2026-02-24

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the creation of visually compelling and user-centric interfaces for transactional and e-commerce websites.

• Drive conversion rate optimization through strategic design decisions and a deep understanding of user behavior.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including UX consultants, product managers, and developers, to deliver end-to-end digital solutions.

• Leverage and contribute to design systems to ensure brand consistency and design at scale for major global brands.

• Stay ahead of industry trends in digital design, technology, and conversion-led strategies to inform innovative design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role emphasizes a strong focus on conversion-led design within the e-commerce landscape, suggesting a need for designers who can balance aesthetic appeal with measurable business outcomes. The hybrid work arrangement indicates a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and deliver pixel-perfect, responsive user interfaces that align with client brand guidelines and meet both user experience and business objectives.

• Develop and maintain digital brand aesthetics, ensuring a cohesive and impactful online visual identity.

• Implement and advocate for user-centered design best practices, conversion design principles, and accessibility standards in all design outputs.

• Utilize design systems effectively to create scalable design solutions and ensure consistency across large consumer-facing brands.

• Actively contribute to the evolution of design processes, staying current with the latest advancements in design technology, trends, and tooling.

• Present and confidently articulate design concepts, rationale, and decisions to internal teams and external clients.

• Manage individual design projects from conception to completion, ensuring timely delivery and high-quality output within fast-paced environments.

• Collaborate closely with stakeholders, UX designers, product managers, and developers to ensure seamless integration of UI designs into the development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on approach and a need for proactive engagement in a dynamic agency setting. The emphasis on "defending design decisions" suggests a need for strong communication and persuasive skills.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, UI Design, or a related discipline.

Experience: 5-10 years of professional experience in UI design, with a significant focus on digital, e-commerce, and consumer-facing brands.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrable expertise in e-commerce design, with a portfolio showcasing successful projects.

• Proficiency in industry-standard design tools: Figma, Sketch, and Adobe Creative Suite.

• Proven experience working with and contributing to design systems for large-scale applications.

• Strong understanding of user-centered design principles and best practices.

• Solid grasp of conversion design strategies and their application in UI.

• Knowledge of accessibility principles (WCAG) and their implementation in digital interfaces.

• Excellent typography skills and an outstanding eye for visual design craftsmanship.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, work accurately under tight deadlines, and solve complex design problems.

• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions clearly.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with design tokens and their application in design systems.

• Proficiency in animation and video editing software such as Adobe After Effects and Final Cut Pro.

• Experience working within a digital or creative agency environment, or an in-house design studio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Bonus points" section for animation and video experience suggests that candidates with broader multimedia design capabilities will be highly regarded. The emphasis on detail-oriented work and craftsmanship indicates a need for meticulous designers.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A compelling portfolio that clearly demonstrates high-quality online design work, with a significant emphasis on e-commerce projects.

• Case studies that showcase the end-to-end design process, from initial concept and user research to final UI implementation and outcomes.

• Examples of responsive design across various devices and screen sizes.

• Demonstrations of how design systems were utilized to ensure consistency and efficiency.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase the ability to document and communicate design processes, including user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.

• Illustrate experience in collaborating with UX designers and developers to refine and implement design solutions.

• Provide examples of how user feedback and data analytics informed design iterations and improvements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role. Candidates should focus on presenting work that highlights their ability to impact conversion rates and their experience with scalable design solutions through design systems.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Senior UI Designer with 5-10 years of experience in Lisbon, Portugal, the estimated salary range is €45,000 - €65,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Lisbon, the agency's global presence, and the specialized skills required for this role.

Benefits:

• Opportunity to work with world-renowned brands and exciting global clients.

• Prioritized career development and skill enhancement programs.

• Empowerment to make a significant impact and contribute to revolutionary work.

• A culture that values individuality, connection, and belonging.

• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits (specifics to be confirmed during the interview process).

• Opportunities for professional development, including training and industry events.

• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.

Working Hours: Approximately 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate project demands and deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical Senior UI Designer roles in major European cities like Lisbon, considering the agency's scale and the specialization in e-commerce and conversion design. Benefits are inferred from typical offerings in global creative agencies and the company's stated values.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing & Advertising, Technology, Consultancy. VML Enterprise Solutions operates at the intersection of these sectors, focusing on delivering digital experiences for major global organizations.

Company Size: Over 30,000 employees globally, with a significant presence across 150+ offices in 64 markets. The Enterprise Solutions division alone comprises over 4,200 experts in 34 countries.

Founded: VML is a result of the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, combining over a century of expertise.

Team Structure:

• The Senior UI Designer will be part of a cross-functional creative team, working alongside UX consultants, product managers, developers, and other designers.

• This role is within the Enterprise Solutions division, which focuses on strategic consultants, creative and technical architects, and skilled developers and operators.

Methodology:

• VML emphasizes an end-to-end approach, covering the entire customer journey from acquisition to loyalty.

• The company leverages deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology to deliver innovative solutions.

• A data-driven approach is implied, with a focus on measurable outcomes and conversion optimization.

Company Website: http://www.vml.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: VML's structure as a merged entity suggests a dynamic and evolving environment. The Enterprise Solutions division specifically focuses on large-scale digital transformations for established brands, requiring a robust and experienced team.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior-level position within the UI Design discipline, indicating a need for significant experience, leadership potential, and the ability to work autonomously and mentor junior designers. The role requires not just execution but also strategic input into design direction and process improvement.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UI Designer will likely report to a Design Lead, Creative Director, or Head of Digital Experience within the Enterprise Solutions division. They will work closely with project managers and collaborate directly with product managers and development teams.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on revenue generation through conversion-optimized e-commerce designs. By improving user experience and driving conversions, the Senior UI Designer contributes significantly to client success and the company's reputation for delivering impactful digital solutions. The work influences brand perception, customer engagement, and ultimately, client ROI.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in areas like advanced e-commerce UX, conversion rate optimization (CRO) strategies, or leading design system initiatives.

• Leadership Development: Progress into roles such as Lead UI Designer, Design Manager, or Creative Director, overseeing design teams and client projects.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Gain broader experience in UX strategy, product management, or technical architecture through collaboration on complex projects.

• Continuous Learning: Access to VML's commitment to career development, including training, workshops, and potential for certifications in relevant design and technology fields.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior title implies a pathway to leadership within the design function. The company's emphasis on growth and development suggests structured opportunities for career advancement beyond the immediate role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, combining in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility. The office in Lisbon is likely a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster creativity and teamwork.

Office Location(s): Lisbon, Portugal. Specific office address details are typically provided upon advancement in the application process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The role requires close collaboration with diverse teams (design, UX, product, development), suggesting an open and interactive office setup.

• Technology & Tools: Access to state-of-the-art design software (Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially advanced hardware for design and prototyping.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for brainstorming sessions, design critiques, client presentations, and team-building activities within the Lisbon office and potentially virtually with global teams.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week. The hybrid model allows for some flexibility in managing personal and professional time, but the fast-paced agency environment may require occasional adjustments to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role suggests that candidates should be comfortable with both independent work and in-person collaboration. The emphasis on a "fast-paced" environment indicates a need for adaptability and efficiency.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you present your portfolio, highlighting relevant e-commerce and conversion design projects, and explain your design process and rationale. Be prepared to discuss specific case studies in detail.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or a skills-based exercise to evaluate proficiency in Figma/Sketch/Adobe, understanding of design systems, and problem-solving abilities.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential team members, including designers, UX consultants, and product managers, to assess cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication skills.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to evaluate strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall fit with VML's values and business objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest projects, prioritizing those that demonstrate e-commerce expertise, conversion optimization, and experience with design systems.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed, the challenges you overcame, and the measurable outcomes or impact achieved. Use data and metrics where possible.

• Showcase Process: Include wireframes, user flows, prototypes, and rationale behind key design decisions. Explain how user feedback and business goals influenced your design choices.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly demonstrate proficiency in Figma, Sketch, and Adobe Creative Suite, and mention any experience with design tokens or animation tools if applicable.

• Tailor to VML: Research VML's work and values. If possible, subtly align your portfolio presentation with their focus on innovation, client success, and transformative growth.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If given a design challenge, ensure you fully understand the objectives, target audience, and constraints.

• Think Aloud: For problem-solving exercises, articulate your thought process, assumptions, and decision-making criteria.

• Focus on User & Business: Demonstrate how your solutions address both user needs and business goals, particularly conversion.

• Practice Presentation: Rehearse presenting your work and solutions concisely and confidently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a strong portfolio review and the ability to articulate design decisions and impact. Candidates should prepare to present detailed case studies that demonstrate both creative skill and business acumen.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for collaborative UI design, prototyping, and handoff. Expect to use it extensively for creating responsive interfaces and design system components.

• Sketch: Another primary vector design tool for UI, often used in conjunction with or as an alternative to Figma. Proficiency in either is key.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Includes Photoshop for image manipulation, Illustrator for vector graphics, and potentially Adobe XD for prototyping and design.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly a design tool, understanding how to interpret data from analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) to inform design decisions is crucial.

CRM & Automation:

• Understanding the broader ecosystem, including how UI designs integrate with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce) and marketing automation tools, can be beneficial for context.

Other Potential Tools:

• InVision / Marvel: For prototyping and collaboration.

• Zeplin / Abstract: For design handoff and version control.

• Adobe After Effects / Final Cut Pro: For animation and video (bonus points).

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma and Sketch is paramount. The role requires not just design execution but also an understanding of how designs integrate into a broader digital ecosystem and contribute to measurable business outcomes.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Heart: Fostering empathy, trust, and genuine connections. This translates to collaborative design processes, understanding user needs deeply, and building strong relationships within the team and with clients.

• Brains: Valuing relentless curiosity and collaborative intelligence to solve complex challenges. This means approaching design problems with analytical thinking, seeking innovative solutions, and leveraging collective knowledge.

• Courage: Inspiring individuals to speak up, embrace experimentation, and advocate for bold solutions. This encourages designers to push creative boundaries, challenge the status quo, and defend innovative design choices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively working with diverse teams (UX, Product, Development, Strategy) to ensure holistic digital solutions. Open communication and shared understanding are vital.

• Process Review & Feedback: A culture that encourages constructive feedback on designs and processes to drive continuous improvement. Expect regular design critiques and collaborative review sessions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, new trends, and learnings within the design team and across the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: VML's core values (Heart, Brains, Courage) are central to their culture and expected to be reflected in the daily work and interactions of the Senior UI Designer. This implies a collaborative, innovative, and bold approach to design challenges.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing User Needs with Business Goals: Effectively translating client objectives and conversion targets into user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing designs.

• Pace of Change: Adapting quickly to evolving client demands, project requirements, and technological advancements in a fast-paced agency environment.

• Scale and Consistency: Maintaining design integrity and brand consistency across multiple large-scale projects and platforms, often leveraging and contributing to complex design systems.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively communicating and defending design decisions to diverse stakeholders with varying levels of design understanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to hone skills in areas such as interaction design, motion graphics, and advanced prototyping.

• Industry Exposure: Working on diverse projects for leading global brands provides broad industry experience and exposure to different market challenges.

• Professional Certifications: Potential to pursue certifications in UX/UI design, conversion optimization, or specific design tools.

• Mentorship: Access to senior designers and creative leaders for guidance and career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges for major brands, fostering significant professional growth in areas like conversion optimization and large-scale design systems.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting stakeholder demands with user needs. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on communication, negotiation, and user advocacy)

• "Walk us through a complex e-commerce project from your portfolio. What were the key business objectives, your design process, and the quantifiable results?" (Prepare a detailed case study presentation)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about VML and this specific role within Enterprise Solutions?" (Research VML's recent work, values, and the Enterprise Solutions division's focus)

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment?" (Provide examples of teamwork, feedback exchange, and cross-functional collaboration)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of your career and design philosophy. Then, dive into 2-3 key projects, dedicating significant time to each.

• Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role, the process, key decisions, challenges, and results. Emphasize the 'why' behind your design choices.

• Visuals: Use high-quality mockups, prototypes, and process artifacts (wireframes, user flows). Ensure clarity and visual appeal.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use data, metrics, and ROI to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs, especially concerning conversion rates.

• Engage: Be prepared for questions. Listen carefully, answer thoughtfully, and be open to feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to present your portfolio as a narrative that clearly demonstrates your ability to impact business goals, particularly conversion, through strategic UI design. Be ready to articulate your thought process and defend your design decisions.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UI Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Greenhouse.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio highlights your strongest e-commerce and conversion design projects. Tailor your presentation to showcase how your designs have driven measurable business outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your experience with Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite, design systems, and e-commerce platforms. Quantify achievements whenever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio and articulating your design process and rationale for key decisions. Prepare to discuss specific case studies in detail and answer strategy-based questions.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research VML, its Enterprise Solutions division, and its core values (Heart, Brains, Courage). Understand their client roster and the type of work they produce.

⚠️ 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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