Senior UX Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Designer Company: DEPT® Location: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Netherlands Job Type: Full-Time Category: UX/UI Design Operations Date Posted: 2025-08-04 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on designing exceptional and engaging digital experiences for clients, combining technical solutions with user-centric design principles.
• The Senior UX Designer will be instrumental in translating client strategies and user insights into well-considered user journeys, flows, and wireframes.
• You will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including UI designers, to shape the final end-to-end user experience.
• The position requires a proactive approach to bringing new ideas, best practices, and cross-industry insights to project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the primary focus is UX Design, the emphasis on translating strategy, collaborating with technical teams, and driving digital product development aligns with operational excellence in a digital agency context. The role requires strong process thinking and the ability to manage design projects efficiently.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and participate in discovery sessions, utilizing generative methods to identify user needs, potential challenges, and strategic opportunities for digital products.
• Translate complex client strategies and user research insights into detailed user journeys, user flows, wireframes, and annotated design specifications to guide development.
• Develop and present clear, compelling design concepts and solutions to clients and stakeholders, effectively articulating design choices and managing feedback to refine designs.
• Create functional prototypes to validate design concepts with users, iterating based on feedback to ensure optimal user experience and usability.
• Collaborate closely with UI Designers to ensure seamless integration of UX principles with visual design elements, contributing to a cohesive and impactful final product.
• Bring innovative ideas, industry best practices, and cross-industry insights to project teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and design excellence.
• Work effectively within multidisciplinary teams, contributing to the overall success of digital product development from concept to launch.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior-level contribution, emphasizing leadership in discovery, strategic translation into design, client-facing presentations, and collaboration within a team structure. This indicates a need for strong project management and communication skills within a design operations framework.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Psychology, or a related field is typically expected, though equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience: Minimum of 4+ years of progressive experience as a UX Designer, ideally within a digital agency or for renowned brands, with a proven track record of delivering high-quality digital products.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in UX design principles, methodologies, and best practices.
• Proficiency in creating user journeys, user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.
• Strong experience with design and prototyping tools, specifically Figma, and collaborative platforms.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions and influence stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary, agile teams.
• Working proficiency in English for client and team communication.
• Experience in designing for websites, mobile applications, and complex digital products.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with user research methodologies, including usability testing and user interviews.
• Familiarity with A/B testing and data analysis to inform design decisions.
• Understanding of front-end development principles (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to inform design feasibility.
• Experience with design systems and their implementation.
• Knowledge of accessibility standards (WCAG) and inclusive design principles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 4+ years of experience and the emphasis on agency or A-brand experience suggest a need for candidates who can handle complex client demands and deliver sophisticated design solutions. The specific mention of Figma and collaborative tools indicates a need for proficiency in modern design workflows.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio (website or PDF) showcasing a range of UX design projects, demonstrating a strong understanding of user-centered design principles and problem-solving capabilities.
• Case studies that clearly articulate the design process, from initial research and ideation through to final design and outcomes, highlighting your role and contributions.
• Examples of wireframes, user flows, prototypes, and final UI designs, accompanied by clear annotations and explanations of design rationale.
• Demonstrations of how you have translated business requirements and user needs into effective digital solutions.
• Evidence of collaboration with cross-functional teams, including developers and UI designers, and how you managed feedback and iteration.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to document design processes, workflows, and decisions clearly and concisely.
• Experience in creating and maintaining design specifications and style guides to ensure consistency across projects.
• Familiarity with agile development methodologies and how UX processes integrate within them.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for this role, serving as the primary evidence of a candidate's UX capabilities. The expectation is for detailed case studies that illustrate the end-to-end design process, demonstrating not just visual output but also strategic thinking and problem-solving skills within a project lifecycle.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX Designers in the Netherlands with 4-10 years of experience, particularly within digital agencies, a competitive salary range would typically be between €50,000 and €75,000 per year, depending on experience, specific skills, and the exact scope of responsibilities.

Benefits:

• Flexible, hybrid working policy, allowing for a blend of office and remote work.
• Opportunity to work from abroad for up to 13 weeks per year, offering significant flexibility.
• 24 vacation days per year, with an option to purchase additional days.
• Access to DEPT®/YOU Learning Menu and Special Programs for continuous skill development.
• Health and wellness support, including contributions to the OpenUp platform, gym/wellness discounts, and healthy office lunches.
• Commuting benefits such as a lease bike discount and an NS Business Card for public transport.
• Company recognition as a Certified B Corp® and a Great Place To Work, reflecting a positive and ethical work environment.
• Opportunity to work with leading clients and contribute to award-winning projects.

Working Hours: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the company offers flexibility in how these hours are managed, aligning with a hybrid working model and potential international work arrangements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical market rates for a Senior UX Designer in the Netherlands, considering the agency environment and DEPT®'s reputation. The benefits package is extensive, emphasizing work-life balance, professional development, and employee well-being, which are attractive to experienced professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital agency, specializing in Experience & Engineering, Marketing Technology, and Data. DEPT® works with high-profile clients like Gant, Inter Milan, bol.com, and Just Eat Takeaway, indicating a focus on innovation and impactful digital solutions. Company Size: DEPT® is a global company with a presence in over 30 countries, suggesting a large, diverse, and well-resourced organization. This size offers opportunities for global collaboration and career development. Founded: DEPT® was founded with a digital-first mindset, aiming to be a new model of agency that deeply combines tech and marketing expertise. This founding principle drives their forward-thinking culture.

Team Structure:

• The role is part of the Experience & Engineering team in the Netherlands, which combines technical expertise with design skills.
• This team likely operates in multidisciplinary project squads, working closely with clients and other agency departments.
• Reporting lines are expected to be within a design leadership structure, with potential collaboration across various project teams and client accounts.

Methodology:

• DEPT® emphasizes a data-driven approach to design and development, using insights to create impactful digital experiences.
• Their methodology likely includes agile project management, user-centered design processes, and a focus on continuous innovation and client collaboration.
• The agency's culture values curiosity, self-driven individuals, and a commitment to solving complex client challenges.

Company Website: deptagency.com

📝 Enhancement Note: DEPT®'s positioning as a global, innovative digital agency with a strong focus on employee well-being and a diverse culture is a significant draw. The "culture is big enough to cope and small enough to care" ethos suggests a supportive yet impactful work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior UX Designer role, indicating a level of expertise and autonomy where the individual is expected to lead design initiatives, mentor junior designers, and contribute strategically to client projects. It is a pivotal role in the design operations of the agency. Reporting Structure: The Senior UX Designer will likely report to a Head of Design, Creative Director, or a similar senior leadership position within the Experience & Engineering team. They will also collaborate closely with Project Managers, Account Managers, and technical leads. Operations Impact: The Senior UX Designer directly impacts the success of client projects by ensuring user-centered, effective, and engaging digital products. Their work influences client satisfaction, user adoption, conversion rates, and ultimately, the client's business objectives, which is a key operational metric for an agency.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas of UX, such as UX research, service design, or interaction design, and to learn new tools and methodologies.
• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into a Lead UX Designer or Design Manager role, taking on more responsibility for team leadership, project strategy, and client relationship management.
• Cross-functional Experience: Exposure to various facets of digital product development, including strategy, technology, and marketing, fostering a holistic understanding of the digital landscape.
• Global Mobility: As a global agency, there may be opportunities to work on international projects or transfer to other DEPT® locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant growth potential beyond individual contribution, moving into leadership and strategic advisory roles within the agency's operations. The focus on continuous learning and diverse project exposure supports a well-rounded career path in the digital design industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: DEPT® operates with a hybrid model, meaning there are physical office spaces in Amsterdam and Rotterdam, but employees are not required to be in the office full-time. This model fosters flexibility and work-life balance. Office Location(s): Offices are located in major Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, providing access to vibrant business hubs and talent pools. Specific office details might vary, but they are designed to facilitate collaboration and innovation.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is likely designed to be collaborative and inspiring, with spaces for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and individual focused work.
• Access to modern design tools and technology is standard, supporting efficient workflow and creative output for UX professionals.
• Opportunities for interaction with diverse teams (design, tech, strategy) are frequent, fostering a dynamic and knowledge-rich workspace.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is 40 hours, but DEPT® emphasizes flexibility. This allows UX Designers to manage their schedules around project needs, client availability, and personal commitments, supporting a healthy work-life integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work policy and the opportunity to work abroad are significant perks, reflecting a modern and trusting work environment. The emphasis on collaborative spaces and access to technology supports the operational needs of a creative agency.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess fit with the role requirements and company culture.
• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: You will likely be asked to present a selection of your best work, discussing your process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of your designs. Be prepared to elaborate on your role within team projects.
• Technical/Skills Assessment: This might involve a design challenge or a discussion around specific UX methodologies, tools (like Figma), and your experience with user research and prototyping.
• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Conversations with potential colleagues and managers to assess your collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with DEPT®'s values.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss your career aspirations and overall fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 projects that best showcase your skills, diversity of work, and problem-solving approach. Highlight projects where you had significant impact.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your process, the challenges faced, your specific contributions, the solutions you designed, and the measurable outcomes or learnings.
• Showcase Process: Include wireframes, user flows, research insights, user testing feedback, and prototypes to demonstrate your end-to-end design thinking.
• Highlight Collaboration: Explain how you worked with clients, stakeholders, and other team members (developers, UI designers, researchers).
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved conversion rates, user satisfaction scores).
• Be Ready for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, how you handle feedback, and your problem-solving strategies.

Challenge Preparation:

• If a design challenge is given, focus on understanding the brief thoroughly, defining the core problem, outlining your approach, and presenting your solution clearly, even if it's a conceptual exercise.
• Practice articulating your thought process and design rationale concisely.
• Prepare to discuss how you would iterate on the design based on potential feedback or further research.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be thorough, with a strong emphasis on the portfolio. Candidates should prepare to not only show their work but also to articulate the 'why' and 'how' behind their design decisions, demonstrating strategic thinking and collaborative capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI design, wireframing, prototyping, and collaborative design workflows. Proficiency is a must.
• Prototyping Tools: Experience with tools like InVision, Adobe XD, or Principle for creating interactive prototypes.
• User Research Platforms: Familiarity with tools for user testing, surveys, and feedback collection (e.g., UserTesting.com, Maze, SurveyMonkey).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics Tools: Understanding of how to interpret data from tools like Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar platforms to inform design decisions.
• A/B Testing Tools: Experience with tools like Optimizely or VWO for testing design variations.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, an understanding of how user experience impacts customer journeys within CRM systems or marketing automation platforms can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is explicitly called out as a requirement. Beyond that, experience with a range of tools supporting the full UX lifecycle—from research and ideation to prototyping, testing, and performance analysis—will be highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Curiosity: A drive to explore new ideas, technologies, and methodologies to create cutting-edge digital experiences.
• Collaboration: Working effectively in multidisciplinary teams, valuing diverse perspectives and contributing to a shared goal.
• Client Focus: A commitment to understanding client needs and delivering solutions that drive business success and build lasting relationships.
• Excellence & Quality: A dedication to producing high-quality, user-centered designs that meet rigorous standards.
• Impact & Ownership: Taking responsibility for design outcomes and striving to make a tangible impact on client projects and the agency's reputation.

Collaboration Style:

• DEPT® fosters a collaborative environment where open communication and knowledge sharing are encouraged.
• UX Designers are expected to work closely with UI designers, developers, project managers, strategists, and client stakeholders, acting as a bridge between user needs and business objectives.
• A proactive approach to seeking and providing feedback is valued, contributing to a continuous improvement cycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and client impact reflects a dynamic agency culture where UX designers play a crucial role in driving success. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to integrate seamlessly into diverse teams and contribute to a positive, results-oriented environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Client Demands with User Needs: Effectively advocating for user-centered design while meeting client business objectives and tight deadlines.
• Navigating Complex Stakeholder Landscapes: Managing diverse opinions and feedback from various client and internal stakeholders.
• Staying Ahead of Digital Trends: Continuously learning and adapting to rapidly evolving technologies, design tools, and user expectations.
• Measuring Design Impact: Quantifying the success of UX initiatives and demonstrating ROI to clients.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• DEPT®/YOU Learning Menu & Special Programs: Access to tailored courses, workshops, and programs to enhance UX skills, explore new domains, and develop leadership capabilities.
• Cross-Industry Exposure: Working with a variety of clients across different sectors provides broad exposure to diverse challenges and user behaviors.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from senior designers and leaders within the agency.
• Industry Events & Conferences: Potential support for attending relevant design conferences and training sessions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in a fast-paced agency environment, offering significant opportunities for professional growth through problem-solving and continuous learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex UX challenge you faced on a recent project and how you approached it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, decision-making, and impact.)
• "How do you balance user needs with business requirements and technical constraints?" (Demonstrate a pragmatic and strategic approach.)
• "How do you collaborate with UI designers and developers to ensure a cohesive product? Can you give an example?" (Highlight your teamwork and communication skills.)
• "How do you stay updated with the latest UX trends and tools?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to DEPT® and this specific role?" (Research DEPT®'s work, values, and culture.)
• "How do you see yourself contributing to our multidisciplinary teams?" (Emphasize collaboration and proactive engagement.)
• "Describe your ideal work environment." (Align your response with DEPT®'s hybrid and collaborative culture.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Start with a brief overview of your career, then dive into 2-3 selected projects. For each project: context, problem, your process, key decisions, solutions, and outcomes/learnings.
• Focus on 'Why': Explain the rationale behind your design choices, not just what you did.
• Be Concise: Respect time limits and focus on the most impactful aspects of your work.
• Interactive Elements: If presenting prototypes, be ready to demonstrate key interactions.
• Handle Feedback Gracefully: Show you are open to constructive criticism and can discuss alternative approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating your design process, demonstrating strategic thinking, and showcasing your ability to collaborate effectively. Having clear, concise case studies ready for presentation is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link.
• Tailor your Resume: Highlight your 4+ years of UX design experience, specific achievements with A-brands, and proficiency in Figma and collaborative tools. Quantify your impact wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date, showcases your best work, and clearly articulates your design process and contributions to each project. Have a few key case studies ready for detailed discussion.
• Research DEPT®: Familiarize yourself with their client work, company culture, values, and recent achievements (e.g., B Corp certification, awards).
• Practice Your Pitch: Be ready to present your portfolio and answer common interview questions about your design philosophy, problem-solving skills, and collaboration style.

⚠️ 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.