Senior Vice President, UX Studio Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Vice President, UX Studio Designer Company: BNY Location: New York, NY, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Product Design Date Posted: 2026-01-09 Experience Level: Senior (10+ years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and provide expert guidance on complex user experience (UX) design initiatives, encompassing user research, interactive design, and visual design within an innovative Studio model.
• Drive the creation of user-centered design artifacts, including wireframes, prototypes, and detailed specifications, to deliver transformative solutions.
• Foster a collaborative environment by mentoring junior designers, actively participating in team processes, and advocating for user experience best practices across the organization.
• Synthesize complex situations and information to inform design decisions, ensuring alignment with business objectives and user needs in a dynamic financial services environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, "Senior Vice President, UX Studio Designer," within BNY's "Design Hub" structured as "Accelerator teams," signifies a senior leadership position focused on delivering high-impact UX design solutions for business areas that may not have extensive prior experience with design. The "Studio Centric Model" indicates a focused, project-based approach, likely involving close collaboration with product and development teams on specific initiatives. The title "Senior Vice President" suggests significant leadership and strategic responsibility, going beyond individual design contributions to include mentorship and organizational influence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide advanced technical expertise and strategic guidance for user research, including the documentation and presentation of findings to product and development teams.
• Lead the conceptualization and development of information architecture, user interface (UI) designs, wireframes, storyboards, and interactive prototypes.
• Review and provide constructive feedback on user personas, ensuring they accurately represent target user groups and inform design decisions.
• Synthesize multifaceted information and project requirements to develop comprehensive and effective design solutions that meet project schedules and business objectives.
• Actively mentor and train junior designers, sharing expertise and fostering their professional growth within the UX design discipline.
• Champion the user experience across the firm by effectively communicating design rationale, advocating for user needs, and building strong relationships with stakeholders.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of team processes, organizational structures, and design methodologies within the UX Studio.
• Execute design tasks with limited supervision, exercising discretion and sound judgment in resolving design-related issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a blend of hands-on design leadership and strategic influence. The emphasis on "synthesizing situations and information across multiple factors" and "exercising discretion and executing under limited supervision" points to a role that requires independent problem-solving and strategic thinking, typical of senior-level positions in design operations. The requirement to "build effective relationships" and "get involved with team process and organization" highlights the operational and collaborative aspects of this role within a larger financial institution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, User Experience, Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), or a closely related technical or creative discipline.
• Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in a relevant field is preferred, indicating a strong theoretical and research foundation.

Experience:

• 10-12 years of progressive experience in User Experience (UX) design, interactive design, or a related design field.
• Demonstrated experience in the securities or financial services industry is a significant advantage, requiring an understanding of complex financial systems and user needs.

Required Skills:

• User Research & Testing: Proven ability to conduct, analyze, and present user research findings to inform design strategies and product development.
• Interactive Design: Expertise in creating engaging and intuitive user flows, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.
• Visual Design: Strong aesthetic sense and proficiency in creating visually appealing and brand-consistent user interfaces.
• Information Architecture: Skill in organizing content and structuring digital products for optimal usability and navigation.
• Mentoring & Leadership: Demonstrated experience in guiding, coaching, and developing junior design talent.
• Communication & Advocacy: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate design decisions, check for understanding, and advocate effectively for the user experience.
• Technical Expertise: Deep understanding of UX principles, design methodologies, and relevant design tools.
• Collaboration: Proven ability to build strong, effective working relationships with cross-functional teams, including product managers, developers, and business stakeholders.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with AI and breakthrough technologies in a financial services context.
• Familiarity with the "Studio Centric Model" and "Accelerator Teams" operational structures.
• Knowledge of design systems and their implementation in large organizations.
• Experience in advocating for design within a complex corporate structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 10-12 years of experience coupled with a Bachelor's degree and preference for an advanced degree positions this as a senior leadership role. The explicit mention of "experience in the securities or financial services industry" is a critical filter. Key skills like "User Research," "Interactive Design," "Visual Design," "Information Architecture," and "Mentoring" are core to UX leadership, while "Communication & Advocacy" and "Collaboration" highlight the organizational and interpersonal demands of a senior role in a large institution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of UX design projects, demonstrating expertise across user research, interactive design, visual design, and information architecture.
• Evidence of leading design initiatives, including the ability to manage complex projects from concept to completion.
• Demonstration of how designs have addressed specific user needs and business objectives within a corporate or financial services environment.
• Examples of interactive prototypes and detailed wireframes that illustrate user flows and interface concepts.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of documented user research findings, personas, and user journey maps.
• Showcase of design specifications, style guides, or design system components developed.
• Demonstration of participation in or leadership of design reviews, and how feedback was incorporated.
• Case studies that highlight problem-solving methodologies, design iteration processes, and the impact of design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit requirement for a portfolio is critical. For a Senior VP level role, this portfolio should not only showcase design execution but also strategic thinking, leadership in process management, and the ability to translate complex business needs into user-centered solutions within a financial services context. This includes demonstrating an understanding of how design integrates with product development and business strategy.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The estimated base salary range for this position is $112,000 to $190,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Competitive Compensation Package: Includes base salary, discretionary bonuses, and short/long-term incentive packages, reflecting a pay-for-performance philosophy.
• Health & Wellbeing: Comprehensive health insurance, wellbeing programs, and initiatives focused on personal resilience.
• Work-Life Integration: Generous paid leaves, including paid volunteer time, to support personal and family needs.
• Global Resources: Access to flexible global resources and tools designed to support employees' life journeys.
• Financial Goals: Programs and benefits aimed at helping employees reach their financial goals.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, with an estimated 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, the emphasis on "flexible global resources" might suggest some flexibility in work approach, though not necessarily in location.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range of $112,000 - $190,000 for a Senior Vice President level in New York, NY, aligns with industry benchmarks for senior design leadership roles in major financial institutions. The listed benefits are comprehensive, focusing on holistic employee support, which is typical for large, established corporations like BNY. The mention of "flexible global resources" alongside an "on-site" work arrangement suggests that while physical presence is required, the company supports employees with tools and resources that can enhance their work experience.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services. BNY operates as a leading global financial services company, influencing a significant portion of the world's investible assets. The company leverages cutting-edge AI and breakthrough technologies. Company Size: BNY Mellon is a large, established financial institution. While the exact number of employees isn't provided in the raw data, its scale suggests a complex organizational structure with numerous departments and a global presence. Founded: BNY Mellon was formed through the merger of Bank of New York and Mellon Financial Corporation. The Bank of New York was founded in 1784, making it one of the oldest financial institutions in the United States, signifying a long history of stability and evolution.

Team Structure:

• This role is part of the "Design Hub," specifically within "Accelerator teams." This structure implies a project-based, agile operating model designed to partner with various bank divisions.
• The reporting structure for this SVP role likely involves reporting to a Lead Designer or a higher-level executive within the Design organization, with direct influence over junior designers.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, with frequent interaction with product teams, development teams, and business stakeholders across different areas of the bank.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes harnessing "cutting-edge AI and breakthrough technologies" to drive "transformative solutions."
• The "Accelerator teams" and "Studio Centric Model" suggest a methodology focused on rapid iteration, problem-solving, and delivering tangible results on a project basis.
• Design is integrated with technology and client needs to redefine industries and uplift communities, indicating a user-centric and impact-driven approach.

Company Website: https://www.bny.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: BNY's description highlights a culture that blends a rich history with forward-thinking innovation, leveraging AI and technology. The "Design Hub" operating as "Accelerator teams" points to an agile, project-driven approach to design, which is crucial for operations professionals to understand when considering how design initiatives are managed and executed within the company. The emphasis on "transformative solutions" and "uplifting communities" suggests a mission-driven aspect to their work.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is explicitly designated as "Senior Vice President," placing it at a very senior leadership level within the UX design function. It implies significant responsibility for strategic direction, team development, and influencing organizational design practices. The "Studio Centric Model" suggests a specialized career path focused on delivering high-impact design projects. Reporting Structure: The SVP will receive general instructions from a Lead Designer but is expected to operate with limited supervision, exercising discretion. This indicates a level of autonomy while still being part of a larger design leadership structure. They will also be responsible for mentoring junior designers. Operations Impact: The UX Studio Designer plays a critical role in shaping the user experience of financial products and services. By leading design initiatives and advocating for the user, this role directly influences client satisfaction, product adoption, operational efficiency, and ultimately, the company's competitive positioning and revenue generation within the financial services sector. The application of AI and advanced technologies suggests a focus on future-proofing financial solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher executive roles within the Design organization or broader product/technology leadership within BNY.
• Strategic Influence: Opportunity to shape the future of design practice and technology adoption at a leading global financial institution.
• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in areas like AI-driven design, complex financial systems UX, and leading design accelerators.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Develop broader business acumen by working across diverse areas of the bank and leading project-based initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior Vice President" title confirms a high level of seniority, focusing on strategic leadership, mentorship, and significant impact on product and client experience within the financial services domain. Growth opportunities are geared towards executive leadership and shaping organizational design strategy, leveraging the company's focus on technology and innovation.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role located in New York, NY. BNY, as a major financial institution, likely provides a professional, corporate office environment designed for collaboration and focused work. Office Location(s): New York, NY. This is a major financial hub, offering access to a vibrant professional community and resources. Workspace Context:

• The environment will likely foster collaboration, especially given the "Accelerator teams" and "Studio Centric Model" which imply project-based teamwork.
• Access to advanced design tools and technologies is expected, given the company's emphasis on AI and breakthrough technologies.
• Opportunities for interaction with diverse teams—product, development, research, and business stakeholders—will be frequent, facilitating knowledge sharing and integrated problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with an anticipated 40-hour work week. As an on-site position in financial services, adherence to standard business hours is typical, though the emphasis on "flexible global resources" might offer some flexibility in how work is managed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" requirement in New York City for a Senior VP role in financial services implies a professional, dynamic, and collaborative office setting. The "Studio Centric Model" suggests that the physical workspace may be organized to support intensive, project-focused teamwork, potentially with dedicated project areas or studios.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely includes a review of your resume and portfolio by a recruiter or hiring manager to assess alignment with the SVP, UX Studio Designer role requirements.
• Portfolio Presentation: A critical stage where candidates present their work, demonstrating design process, problem-solving skills, leadership, and impact. Expect to walk through 2-3 key projects.
• Interviews with Design Leadership: Discussions with Lead Designers and other senior members of the Design Hub to evaluate technical expertise, strategic thinking, and cultural fit.
• Cross-Functional Interviews: Meetings with Product Managers, Development Leads, and potentially business unit executives to assess collaboration skills and understanding of business context.
• Executive/VP Level Interview: Final interviews to assess overall fit, leadership potential, and alignment with BNY's strategic vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your leadership in complex UX design, your ability to mentor, and your impact within financial services or similar regulated industries.
• Showcase Process & Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process (research, ideation, iteration, testing), the solutions you developed, and quantifiable outcomes or business impact.
• Highlight Mentorship: Include examples where you've guided junior designers, facilitated team processes, or championed design within an organization.
• Tailor to BNY: Emphasize projects related to financial services, AI, or complex enterprise solutions if possible. Demonstrate an understanding of BNY's mission and culture.
• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your design philosophy, how you handle constructive criticism, your approach to stakeholder management, and how you drive innovation.

Challenge Preparation:

• Expect potential design challenges or case studies that require you to analyze a problem, outline a UX strategy, and propose solutions within a given timeframe.
• Focus on demonstrating your strategic thinking, ability to synthesize information quickly, and clear communication of your thought process.
• Practice articulating your reasoning and defending your design choices, especially in the context of business constraints and user needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio at this senior level is paramount. Candidates should prepare to not only showcase their design execution but also their strategic leadership, mentorship capabilities, and ability to drive impact within a complex financial institution. The interview process will likely be rigorous, assessing both technical design skills and leadership competencies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Figma, Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, XD), InVision, Axure, or similar platforms for wireframing, UI design, and interactive prototyping.
• User Research Tools: Experience with tools for user interviews, surveys, usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com, Maze, Lookback), and data analysis.
• Collaboration Platforms: Familiarity with tools like Jira, Confluence, Slack, Microsoft Teams for project management, documentation, and team communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) to understand user behavior and measure design impact.
• Familiarity with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) for presenting design performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly required, an understanding of CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and automation workflows can be beneficial for designing integrated user experiences within financial services.
• Familiarity with enterprise-level software and integration considerations within a large financial institution.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, a Senior VP of UX Design is expected to be proficient in a wide array of industry-standard design and prototyping tools. Given BNY's focus on AI and technology, familiarity with tools that support advanced UX methodologies and data analysis will be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Transformation: A drive to harness AI and breakthrough technologies to create new solutions and redefine industries.
• Inclusion & Diversity: A commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, aligning with BNY's EEO/AA policies.
• Client Focus: A dedication to collaborating with clients and driving transformative solutions that meet their needs and uplift communities.
• Excellence & Performance: A pay-for-performance philosophy rooted in a culture of excellence, aiming for high standards in all endeavors.
• Integrity & Responsibility: Operating as a leading global financial services company requires a strong ethical framework and commitment to responsible practices.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Emphasis on partnering with different areas of the bank, specifically those with less historical design engagement, requiring strong collaboration and communication skills.
• Project-Based Teamwork: The "Accelerator teams" and "Studio Centric Model" suggest a dynamic, collaborative approach focused on achieving project goals efficiently.
• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture that supports the growth of junior designers and encourages the sharing of expertise and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: BNY's stated values of innovation, inclusion, client focus, and performance are key to understanding the expected team culture. For an operations-minded candidate, the emphasis on "transformative solutions" and "accelerator teams" suggests a results-oriented, agile, and collaborative environment where design plays a pivotal role in driving business outcomes.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Bridging Design Gaps: Working with business units that may not have extensive prior experience with design requires strong advocacy, education, and relationship-building to ensure successful adoption of UX principles.
• Navigating Complex Systems: Designing within a large, established financial institution involves understanding intricate regulatory environments, legacy systems, and complex business processes.
• Driving Innovation: Balancing the need for innovative solutions with the inherent conservatism of the financial services industry can be a significant challenge.
• Measuring Impact: Quantifying the ROI of UX design initiatives, particularly in a Studio model, requires robust metrics and clear communication to stakeholders.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced UX Methodologies: Opportunities to explore and implement cutting-edge design practices, including those leveraging AI.
• Financial Services Expertise: Deepen understanding of the financial industry, its products, regulations, and client needs.
• Leadership Development: Formal and informal opportunities to hone leadership, strategic planning, and executive communication skills.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain broad exposure to various business functions within BNY through project-based work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for adaptability, strong communication, and strategic thinking, particularly in navigating a large financial institution. The growth opportunities are substantial, positioning this role as a springboard for significant career advancement and skill development within the specialized field of financial services UX.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a complex UX design initiative from conception to launch. What was your process, what challenges did you face, and what was the ultimate impact?" (Focus on leadership, process, problem-solving, and results.)
• "How do you approach mentoring junior designers and fostering their professional growth within a team?" (Highlight your leadership philosophy and experience in team development.)
• "Given BNY's focus on AI and transformative solutions, how would you integrate emerging technologies into your UX design strategy for financial services?" (Demonstrate forward-thinking and strategic application of technology.)
• "How do you advocate for the user experience within a large organization, especially with stakeholders who may not prioritize design?" (Showcase your communication, persuasion, and relationship-building skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of BNY, what do you see as the biggest opportunities and challenges for UX design within our organization?" (Research BNY's recent news, awards, and strategic priorities.)
• "How would you describe your ideal team collaboration style, and how do you ensure effective teamwork in a project-based 'Accelerator' model?" (Align your style with BNY's emphasis on collaboration and innovation.)
• "How do you measure the success and impact of your design work, especially in a role that influences across different business units?" (Be prepared to discuss metrics and ROI.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: For each project, clearly define the problem, your specific role and contributions, the design process (including research and iteration), the final solution, and the measurable impact.
• Tell a Story: Narrate your projects, focusing on the narrative of problem-solving and user advocacy. Emphasize decision-making rationale.
• Highlight Leadership & Mentorship: Point out instances where you led teams, mentored junior designers, or influenced strategic direction.
• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics whenever possible to demonstrate the tangible business value and user benefit of your designs.
• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared for questions and foster a dialogue, demonstrating your passion and expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for an SVP-level role should focus on strategic thinking, leadership, and the ability to articulate impact. Candidates must be ready to discuss their experience in financial services, their approach to mentorship, and how they drive innovation. The portfolio presentation is a critical component, requiring a clear, data-driven narrative of past successes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Vice President, UX Studio Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on BNY's careers portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Curate your design portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating leadership in complex UX design, experience in financial services, and instances of mentorship. Ensure case studies clearly articulate problem, process, solution, and impact.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 10-12+ years of experience, leadership achievements, and specific skills in user research, interactive design, visual design, and information architecture. Use keywords from the job description and ATS-friendly language.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design philosophy, leadership approach, and your ability to drive innovation and advocate for users in a corporate financial setting. Prepare to present your portfolio with clear narratives and quantifiable results.
• Company Research: Deeply research BNY's mission, values, recent news, and the financial services industry landscape. Understand their emphasis on AI, technology, and client transformation to tailor your responses and showcase cultural alignment.

⚠️ 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.