UX Designer

Vontobel
Full_timeβ€’Switzerland

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: UX Designer Company: Vontobel Location: ZΓΌrich / Bleicherweg 21, Switzerland Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Digital Client Experience Operations / Product Operations Date Posted: September 12, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • Design and develop user-centered UX concepts for Vontobel's digital Private Banking channels, impacting how clients interact with e-banking and advisory solutions.
  • Lead user research initiatives, analyze customer feedback, and leverage data insights to inform intuitive and engaging user experiences.
  • Create and refine prototypes, wireframes, and user flows, ensuring seamless integration from concept to final product delivery.
  • Establish and implement UX Writing guidelines to ensure consistent, clear, and user-friendly communication across all digital touchpoints.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including UI Design, Development, and Product Management to drive innovation and elevate the digital client experience.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: While the title is UX Designer, the responsibilities involve a strong operational component in defining and refining digital client interaction processes, which aligns with Digital Client Experience Operations or Product Operations within a financial institution. The emphasis on customer feedback analysis, process refinement through UX standards, and cross-functional collaboration points to an operations-centric approach to user experience management.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Conceptualize and design innovative, user-centric UX solutions for Vontobel's digital Private Banking channels, shaping the future of digital customer engagement.
  • Own the end-to-end design process, including user journey mapping, wireframing, prototyping, and usability testing, to validate and iterate on designs.
  • Conduct and analyze user research, including interviews, surveys, and usability tests, to gather actionable insights that drive design decisions and improve client satisfaction.
  • Develop and maintain UX Writing guidelines and content strategy to ensure clarity, consistency, and brand voice across all digital platforms.
  • Collaborate with Product Management and Engineering teams to translate UX concepts into functional and user-friendly digital products, ensuring successful implementation and adherence to design principles.
  • Drive continuous improvement of digital client experiences by analyzing usage data, customer feedback, and market trends to identify optimization opportunities.
  • Champion user-centered design principles and best practices within the Digital Client Experience (DCX) team and across the organization.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to design and user research, directly impacting the operational flow of digital client interactions. The requirement to establish UX Writing guidelines and continuously improve digital experiences highlights a focus on process standardization and efficiency within the client journey.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in User Experience Design, Interaction Design, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Digital Design, or a related field.
  • Alternatively, a relevant vocational training or certification with equivalent practical experience.

Experience:

  • Minimum of 3 years of professional experience in UX Design, with a strong portfolio showcasing complex application designs and user-centered solutions.
  • Experience in the financial services industry, particularly Private Banking, is a significant advantage.

Required Skills:

  • UX Design & Prototyping: Proficiency in creating wireframes, user flows, interactive prototypes, and conducting usability testing.
  • User Research: Demonstrated ability to plan, conduct, and analyze user research (e.g., interviews, surveys, usability testing) to gather insights and inform design decisions.
  • UX Writing: Proven experience in UX Writing, including developing and implementing UX Writing guidelines for consistent and effective communication.
  • Design Tools: Expert-level proficiency in Figma for design, prototyping, and collaboration.
  • Collaboration & Communication: Strong team player with excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of presenting and articulating design concepts effectively to diverse stakeholders.
  • Language Proficiency: Native or near-native fluency in German and good command of English.
  • Problem-Solving: Proactive, solution-oriented mindset with a strong ability to identify and address user needs and business requirements.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with other design and prototyping tools (e.g., Sketch, Adobe Creative Suite).
  • Familiarity with Agile development methodologies and working within cross-functional product teams.
  • Understanding of front-end development principles (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) to facilitate better collaboration with developers.
  • Experience in designing for mobile applications and responsive web interfaces.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The emphasis on Figma, UX Writing, and user research points to a need for a designer with a strong, process-driven approach to creating user experiences, rather than purely aesthetic design. The preference for financial industry experience suggests an understanding of regulatory and compliance nuances in digital product design.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 relevant UX design projects, ideally from the financial services sector or for complex digital applications.
  • Projects should demonstrate a clear understanding of the user-centered design process, from research and ideation to prototyping and final implementation.
  • Include case studies that detail the problem statement, your role, the design process, key decisions, user research conducted, and measurable outcomes or impact.
  • Showcase expertise in Figma, including interactive prototypes, wireframes, and user flow diagrams.
  • Highlight specific examples of your UX Writing contributions, such as style guides, content audits, or examples of user-interface text you've crafted.

Process Documentation:

  • Evidence of established UX processes, such as user journey mapping, persona development, and usability testing methodologies.
  • Documentation or examples of how you have developed and implemented UX Writing guidelines or content strategy frameworks.
  • Examples of how you have collaborated with development teams to ensure design fidelity and successful implementation of UX/UI designs.
  • Show how you measure the success of UX initiatives and use data (e.g., analytics, feedback) to inform iterative improvements.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating a structured and repeatable design process, coupled with evidence of UX Writing proficiency and data-driven iteration, will be crucial for this role. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their process and the impact of their work on user behavior and business outcomes.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

  • Based on industry standards for a Mid-Level UX Designer in ZΓΌrich, Switzerland, with 3+ years of experience, the estimated annual salary range is CHF 95,000 - CHF 125,000. This estimate considers the high cost of living in ZΓΌrich, Vontobel's standing as a reputable financial institution, and the specialized skills required for this role.

Benefits:

  • Modern Workspaces: Access to contemporary office environments including terraces.
  • Complimentary Meals: Free lunch provided daily.
  • Flexible Work Arrangements: Option for home office (up to 2 days per week) and flexible working hours.
  • Agile Environment: Work within a culture that values agility, trust, and collaboration.
  • Flat Hierarchies: Opportunity to collaborate directly with individuals across all levels of the bank.
  • Campus Atmosphere: A supportive and cooperative team spirit.
  • Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and skill enhancement within the operations and digital experience domain.

Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time working hours are expected, with flexibility offered through hybrid work options and flexible scheduling, allowing for better work-life integration and management of personal and professional responsibilities.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on market data for UX Designers in ZΓΌrich with comparable experience. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's specific qualifications, interview performance, and Vontobel's internal compensation structure. The benefits package emphasizes work-life balance and a positive work environment, which are key considerations for operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (Private Banking) Company Size: Large (2,000+ employees globally) Founded: 1921 Company Description: Vontobel is a family-owned, listed Swiss financial institution with a long-term perspective, focusing on sustainability and innovation. With a global presence, Vontobel offers a wide range of services in wealth management, investment banking, and asset management.

Team Structure:

  • The UX Designer will be part of the Digital Client Experience (DCX) team, which likely comprises specialists in UI design, UX research, product management, and development.
  • This team operates within a broader digital transformation initiative, collaborating closely with Private Banking business units.
  • The reporting structure will likely involve a Lead UX Designer, UX Manager, or Head of Digital Client Experience, with dotted-line reporting or close collaboration with Product Owners and business stakeholders.

Methodology:

  • Agile Development: The team operates in an agile environment, implying iterative design processes, cross-functional collaboration, and adaptability.
  • User-Centric Design: A strong emphasis on understanding and addressing customer needs through research, testing, and iterative design improvements.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing customer feedback, usage analytics, and market data to inform design choices and prioritize initiatives.
  • Process Optimization: Continuously refining digital workflows and user journeys to enhance efficiency and client satisfaction.

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

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Working within a large, established financial institution like Vontobel offers stability and opportunities to impact significant digital transformation efforts. The company's long-term, sustainable focus suggests a culture that values thoughtful execution and strategic planning in its digital operations.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Professional. This role requires independent contribution to design processes and project execution, with the expectation of mentoring more junior designers or interns in the future. The scope includes influencing digital product strategy and contributing to the establishment of UX best practices.

Reporting Structure: The UX Designer will report to a manager or lead within the Digital Client Experience (DCX) team, likely collaborating closely with Product Managers, UI Designers, and development teams on specific projects. Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring interaction with various business units within Private Banking.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the operational efficiency and effectiveness of Vontobel's digital client interactions. By creating intuitive and user-friendly interfaces, the UX Designer contributes to higher client adoption rates, increased customer satisfaction, reduced support inquiries, and ultimately, improved client retention and revenue generation through enhanced digital channels.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of UX, such as user research, interaction design, or UX Writing.
  • Leadership: Progress to a Senior UX Designer role, leading projects, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to design strategy.
  • Cross-Functional Mobility: Transition into Product Management, Digital Strategy, or other roles within the digital transformation space at Vontobel.
  • Skill Development: Continuous learning through workshops, industry conferences, and internal training programs focused on emerging UX trends, tools, and financial technology.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within the digital product and operations space at Vontobel. The emphasis on user experience in a regulated industry like finance provides a unique opportunity to develop specialized skills that are highly transferable.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern office space with collaborative areas and amenities. Office Location(s): ZΓΌrich / Bleicherweg 21, Switzerland. This central location in ZΓΌrich is easily accessible and places Vontobel at the heart of the Swiss financial district.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Design: The environment encourages teamwork and open communication, facilitating seamless collaboration between UX, UI, Product Management, and Engineering.
  • Technology Access: Employees will have access to industry-standard design and collaboration tools, including Figma, and potentially other software relevant to UX research and prototyping.
  • Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular team meetings, design critiques, workshops, and informal knowledge sharing sessions to foster a cohesive and productive team dynamic.

Work Schedule: A hybrid work model is in place, allowing for up to 2 days of remote work per week, balanced with 3 days in the office. This structure aims to provide flexibility while maintaining in-person collaboration and team cohesion.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model and emphasis on collaborative spaces suggest an environment that values both focused individual work and team synergy. The modern office amenities, including free lunch, contribute to a positive and productive work atmosphere.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications and conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications and cultural fit.
  • Portfolio Review & Technical Interview: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing key projects, design process, and contributions. This may be followed by a technical interview focusing on UX methodologies, problem-solving, and specific tool proficiency (e.g., Figma).
  • Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into experience, approach to UX design, team collaboration, and alignment with Vontobel's values.
  • Cross-Functional Team Interview: An opportunity to meet with potential colleagues from Product Management, UI Design, or Development to assess collaboration skills and team synergy.
  • Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with a senior leader or department head for a comprehensive assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentations around compelling narratives that clearly articulate the problem, your process, your role, the solutions you designed, and the impact achieved.
  • Process Focus: Emphasize your systematic approach to UX design, including user research, wireframing, prototyping, and testing. Clearly explain why you made certain design decisions.
  • UX Writing Integration: If possible, showcase how you've integrated UX Writing principles into your designs or specifically highlight projects where you developed UX Writing guidelines.
  • Figma Proficiency: Be prepared to demonstrate your skills in Figma, perhaps through a live walkthrough of a project or by explaining your workflow within the tool.
  • Quantifiable Results: Whenever possible, include metrics or data that demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved conversion rates, reduced task completion times, increased user satisfaction scores).

Challenge Preparation:

  • Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge or a take-home assignment that simulates real-world tasks, such as designing a user flow for a specific banking feature or improving an existing digital process.
  • Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, explaining your design choices and how they address user needs and business objectives.
  • Prepare to discuss how you would approach user research for a new feature and how you would measure its success.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to thoroughly articulate their design process, showcase their Figma skills, and demonstrate a strong understanding of UX Writing. The ability to connect design decisions to business outcomes and client experience improvements will be key.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • Figma: Essential for UI design, prototyping, and collaborative workflows. Proficiency is a must.
  • User Research Platforms: Tools like UserTesting.com, Maze, Lookback, or similar for remote usability testing and feedback collection.
  • Prototyping Tools: Beyond Figma, familiarity with tools like InVision, Axure, or Adobe XD might be beneficial for certain project needs.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Web/App Analytics: Experience with tools such as Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar platforms to track user behavior and performance metrics.
  • Data Visualization: Tools like Tableau, Power BI, or internal reporting dashboards to analyze and present user data and insights.

CRM & Automation:

  • While not directly a UX tool, familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms can provide context on how client data is managed and utilized, influencing design decisions within the broader customer journey.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: A strong command of Figma is paramount. Understanding how to leverage analytics to inform design and iteratively improve user experiences is also critical for this operations-focused UX role.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Customer Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and meeting the needs of Vontobel's clients through thoughtful design and user advocacy.
  • Collaboration: A belief in the power of teamwork, open communication, and cross-functional partnership to achieve shared goals and deliver exceptional digital experiences.
  • Agility & Adaptability: Embracing a flexible and iterative approach to design and development, responding effectively to changing requirements and market dynamics.
  • Excellence & Innovation: Striving for high-quality design outcomes and continuously seeking innovative solutions to improve digital client journeys.
  • Data-Driven Approach: Utilizing research, analytics, and feedback to make informed design decisions and measure the impact of UX initiatives.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Actively working alongside Product Managers, UI Designers, Developers, and business stakeholders to ensure alignment and cohesive product development.
  • Constructive Feedback: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback within design reviews and team discussions to elevate the quality of work.
  • Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to share expertise, best practices, and insights within the team and across the organization to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The emphasis on customer centricity, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making aligns with best practices in operations and product development. Candidates who can demonstrate these values will likely thrive in Vontobel's digital client experience team.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Balancing User Needs with Business Requirements: Navigating the complexities of financial regulations and business objectives while advocating for user needs to create optimal digital experiences.
  • Integrating UX into Agile Workflows: Ensuring that UX considerations are effectively integrated into fast-paced agile development cycles without compromising design quality or user research integrity.
  • Driving UX Adoption: Championing user-centered design principles and influencing stakeholders across different departments to adopt new design processes and standards.
  • Evolving Digital Landscape: Staying ahead of emerging technologies, user behaviors, and digital trends within the financial services sector to maintain a competitive edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Advanced UX Techniques: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like behavioral economics, service design, or advanced user research methodologies.
  • Industry Exposure: Gaining in-depth knowledge of the Private Banking sector and its unique operational and client engagement challenges.
  • Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by experienced design leaders or product strategists within Vontobel.
  • Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to various aspects of digital product development, from business strategy to technical implementation.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges within a regulated industry, fostering significant professional growth and specialization in financial UX.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting user needs and business requirements. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process for stakeholder management and compromise.)
  • "Walk us through a complex digital project you led from a UX perspective. What were the key stages, your primary contributions, and how did you measure success?" (Prepare to present a detailed case study from your portfolio.)
  • "How do you approach user research for a new feature, and what methods would you use to validate your designs at Vontobel?" (Demonstrate your understanding of research planning and execution.)
  • "How would you go about developing and implementing UX Writing guidelines for our digital banking platforms?" (Showcase your UX Writing expertise and strategic thinking.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about Vontobel and the Private Banking sector?" (Research Vontobel's values, history, and digital initiatives.)
  • "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, and how do you handle disagreements with colleagues or stakeholders?" (Prepare examples of your teamwork and conflict resolution skills.)
  • "How do you stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in UX design and the financial industry?" (Highlight your commitment to continuous learning.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure: Organize your presentation logically: Introduction to the project and problem, your role and process, key design decisions with rationale, user research findings, prototypes, final solution, and measurable impact.
  • Visuals: Ensure your slides are clean, professional, and visually engaging, clearly showcasing your design work.
  • Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice delivering your presentation efficiently, focusing on the most impactful aspects of your projects.
  • Engagement: Be prepared to answer questions about your work and discuss your design choices in detail.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Be ready to articulate your design philosophy, demonstrate your proficiency with Figma and UX research methodologies, and clearly explain the business impact of your UX contributions. Understanding Vontobel's specific business context will be advantageous.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this UX Designer position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on the Vontobel careers portal.
  • Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is up-to-date, showcases your most relevant UX design projects, and clearly highlights your Figma skills and UX Writing experience. Tailor your project selection to demonstrate experience relevant to financial services or complex applications.
  • Resume Optimization: Craft a resume that emphasizes your 3+ years of UX design experience, your proficiency in Figma and user research, and any experience in the financial sector. Use keywords from the job description and quantify your achievements where possible.
  • Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail, practice answering common UX interview questions, and be ready to articulate your approach to user research, prototyping, and UX Writing.
  • Company Research: Thoroughly research Vontobel, its digital offerings, and its company culture to demonstrate your genuine interest and to tailor your responses to their specific context and values.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Candidates should have a degree or training in User Experience or a related field, with at least 3 years of experience in UX Design, preferably in complex applications. Proficiency in Figma, UX Writing, and a collaborative team spirit are essential, along with strong German and good English skills.