Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: VML

Location: Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / User Experience (UX) / Digital Transformation

Date Posted: April 23, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (4+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Design and conceptualize digital products from inception, ensuring high-impact solutions with visual consistency and accessibility for a global client base.

• Drive product evolution and improvement by applying modern design methodologies such as Service Design, Design Thinking, System Thinking, and Design Futures.

• Act as a strategic partner to clients, guiding product definition by balancing business objectives, user experience (UX), and empathy.

• Contribute to the advancement of the design system, optimizing design processes for efficiency and coherence across digital products.

• Collaborate within a dynamic, hybrid work environment that emphasizes human-centered design, technological innovation, and strategic business alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within VML's "The Cocktail" division, emphasizing a unique approach to design that integrates business, technology, and human behavior to navigate complex, rapidly changing environments, particularly in the context of AI and digital transformation. The role requires a blend of hands-on design execution and strategic client guidance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, define, and develop digital products, from initial ideation to detailed execution, or evolve existing products to meet new strategic objectives.

• Design user-centered solutions that ensure visual consistency, adhere to accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG), and create seamless user journeys.

• Optimize existing design processes and contribute to the development and maintenance of a robust design system to ensure efficiency and product coherence.

• Maintain a holistic view of the product lifecycle, understanding the broader business context and potential challenges and opportunities.

• Guide clients through the product definition process, adeptly balancing business vision, user experience requirements, and deep empathy for end-users.

• Proactively identify potential risks and opportunities within projects, initiating necessary actions and mobilizing relevant stakeholders or team members to address them effectively.

• Foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement within the design team and with cross-functional partners.

• Mentor and guide junior designers, sharing expertise while remaining hands-on with design execution when required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior-level role requiring not just design execution but also strategic client interaction, risk management, and team leadership, aligning with a "lead" or "senior" product designer capacity. The emphasis on "descending into the mud" signifies a willingness to be hands-on despite leadership responsibilities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio and demonstrable experience in design education methodologies are expected.

Experience: A minimum of 4+ years of professional experience in digital product design is required.

Required Skills:

• Digital Product Design: Proven track record in conceptualizing, designing, and launching digital products.

• Figma Proficiency: Expert-level command of Figma for UI/UX design, prototyping, and collaboration.

• Design Methodologies: Deep understanding and practical application of Service Design, Design Thinking, System Thinking, and Design Futures.

• English Fluency: Native or near-native proficiency in English (written and spoken) for international project collaboration.

• Client Management: Experience in guiding clients, presenting design solutions, and facilitating workshops.

• Visual Design & Accessibility: Strong aesthetic sense with a commitment to visual consistency and adherence to accessibility standards.

• Adaptability: Proven ability to thrive in fast-paced, changing environments and navigate ambiguity and uncertainty.

• Detail Orientation: Meticulous attention to detail in design execution and quality assurance.

Preferred Skills:

• Team Leadership & Development: Experience in managing and mentoring design teams, with a willingness to remain hands-on.

• Design System Development: Experience in creating, maintaining, or contributing to design systems.

• Global Project Experience: Familiarity with designing for international markets and diverse user bases.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Experience working effectively with engineering, product management, marketing, and strategy teams.

• User Research: Experience in conducting user research to inform design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical design skills (Figma, methodologies), soft skills (client management, adaptability, English fluency), and a proactive, hands-on approach to leadership, characteristic of senior roles in creative agencies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a minimum of 4 years of digital product design experience through case studies.

• Showcase expertise in using Figma for a variety of design tasks, including wireframing, high-fidelity mockups, and interactive prototyping.

• Present projects that clearly articulate the application of methodologies such as Service Design, Design Thinking, System Thinking, or Design Futures.

• Include examples of designing for both new product development and the evolution of existing digital products.

• Highlight projects where visual consistency and accessibility were key considerations and how they were achieved.

Process Documentation:

• Case studies should detail the design process from problem definition to solution implementation, emphasizing iterative design and user feedback loops.

• Explain how business goals, user needs, and technical constraints were balanced in the design decision-making process.

• Document the rationale behind key design choices, including user flows, information architecture, and UI elements.

• Illustrate how accessibility standards were integrated into the design and development workflow.

• Provide evidence of collaboration with cross-functional teams (e.g., developers, product managers) throughout the design lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical. It should not only showcase final designs but also the thought process, methodologies used, and the candidate's ability to articulate complex design challenges and solutions, particularly in the context of client-facing work and evolving digital landscapes. The emphasis on "descending into the mud" implies a portfolio that shows hands-on contribution rather than just high-level strategy.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Product Designers in Barcelona with 4+ years of experience, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between €45,000 - €65,000 annually. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, portfolio strength, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Hours: Allows for better work-life integration.

• Generous Vacation: 25 days of annual leave, plus Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve off if they fall on weekdays.

• Hybrid Work Model: Combines remote flexibility with in-office collaboration (average of 4 days in office).

• Career Development: Personalized career plans and continuous training opportunities.

• English Language Improvement: Formative classes to enhance English proficiency.

• Casual Dress Code: Freedom to dress comfortably for work.

• Exclusive Discounts: Access to special offers and benefits.

• Flexible Compensation System: Via Cobee, offering a flexible benefits package.

• Family Support: Maternity support initiatives.

• Diversity & Inclusion: Strong policies promoting equality and diversity.

Working Hours: Standard full-time position, likely around 40 hours per week, with the benefit of flexible working hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on current market data for similar roles in Barcelona, considering the experience level and the nature of the work within a large international agency. The benefits package is comprehensive, focusing on employee well-being, professional development, and work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing & Advertising, Digital Transformation, Technology Consulting. VML operates at the intersection of creative services, customer experience, and commerce, leveraging technology and data to drive client growth.

Company Size: VML is a large global organization, part of WPP, with over 26,000 employees across 55+ markets. "The Cocktail" division in Barcelona contributes to this extensive network.

Founded: VML was formed through the merger of WPP agencies VML and Wunderman Thompson. Its history is rooted in digital innovation and integrated marketing.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team at VML "The Cocktail" is integrated into cross-functional project teams.

• Designers collaborate closely with strategists, technologists, business consultants, and client stakeholders.

• The structure is project-based, with designers reporting to project leads or design directors depending on the initiative.

Methodology:

• Human-Centered Design: A core philosophy, prioritizing user needs and empathy.

• Agile & Iterative Processes: Employing adaptable workflows to respond to client needs and market changes.

• Data-Informed Decisions: Utilizing data analytics and insights to guide design strategy and product optimization.

• Collaborative Workshops: Facilitating co-creation sessions with clients and internal teams to define challenges and solutions.

• Design System Integration: Ensuring consistency and efficiency through standardized design components and guidelines.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: VML emphasizes an integrated approach where design is not a silo but a connective tissue across business, technology, and creativity. The "The Cocktail" division specifically focuses on designing for complex, evolving environments influenced by AI and new relational models. The culture values curiosity, strategic thinking, and a blend of ambition with hands-on execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is for a mid-to-senior Product Designer. It requires significant autonomy in design execution, strategic input on product definition, client interaction, and the potential to mentor junior team members. It's a position that bridges hands-on design with strategic consultancy.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will likely report to a Design Director or a Senior Project Lead within the VML "The Cocktail" division. They will work within cross-functional project teams, collaborating with various disciplines.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's impact is direct and significant, shaping how brands connect with users through digital products and experiences. Their work influences user engagement, brand perception, and ultimately, client business growth. They are instrumental in translating complex business challenges into tangible, user-friendly digital solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas like Service Design, AI-driven design, or advanced UX research.

• Leadership: Progress to Senior Product Designer, Lead Designer, or Design Director roles, managing larger projects and teams.

• Client Consultancy: Enhance skills in client advisory, strategic product definition, and business development within the design context.

• Global Exposure: Participate in international projects, working with diverse clients and teams across VML's global network.

• Continuous Learning: Access to ongoing training, workshops, and industry events to stay at the forefront of design trends and technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined, moving from proficient individual contributor to a role with strategic influence, potential leadership, and broad exposure to global projects and advanced design thinking.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Barcelona and operates on a hybrid model, meaning a combination of remote work and in-office presence. The office environment is designed to foster collaboration and creativity.

Office Location(s): Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. Specific office address details would typically be provided upon inquiry or during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office likely features modern, adaptable spaces designed for teamwork, brainstorming sessions, and client presentations.

• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-standard design software (Figma), prototyping tools, and collaboration platforms.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities for face-to-face interaction with colleagues from diverse disciplines, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives.

• Hybrid Flexibility: The model allows for focused individual work at home and collaborative synergy in the office.

Work Schedule: While specific hours are flexible, a standard full-time commitment (approx. 40 hours/week) is expected. The flexible hours benefit allows individuals to manage their time effectively, balancing personal needs with project deadlines and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and flexible hours are significant aspects of the work environment, reflecting a modern approach to work that balances productivity with employee well-being and collaboration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess foundational skills and experience.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you present 2-3 selected case studies, detailing your process, design decisions, challenges, and outcomes. Be prepared to discuss your role and contributions.

• Skills & Methodology Interview: Discussion focused on your experience with specific design methodologies (Design Thinking, Service Design, etc.), your Figma proficiency, and your approach to problem-solving.

• Client Scenario/Case Study: You may be presented with a hypothetical client challenge or a real-world problem to solve, often requiring you to outline your approach and potential solutions.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Conversation with potential team members or hiring managers to assess your collaboration style, adaptability, and alignment with VML's values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss strategic alignment and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose projects that best showcase your skills relevant to this role, particularly those involving digital product design, client interaction, and complex problem-solving.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process, the solutions, and the measurable impact. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Methodologies: Explicitly state and demonstrate how you applied Service Design, Design Thinking, System Thinking, or Design Futures.

• Showcase Figma Expertise: Be ready to walk through your Figma files, demonstrating your proficiency in advanced features, prototyping, and collaboration.

• Emphasize Collaboration: Detail how you worked with cross-functional teams and clients, showcasing your communication and stakeholder management skills.

• Address Challenges: Be open about challenges faced and how you overcame them, demonstrating resilience and problem-solving abilities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand VML's Approach: Research VML's philosophy, particularly "The Cocktail" division's focus on designing for complex, evolving environments and AI.

• Methodology Practice: Be ready to articulate your understanding and application of the mentioned design methodologies.

• Client Empathy: Practice framing solutions from the client's perspective, balancing business needs with user experience.

• Hands-on Readiness: Prepare to discuss how you would approach a design problem from initial concept to execution, including how you'd "descend into the mud."

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to thoroughly assess both technical design capabilities and strategic thinking, with a strong emphasis on portfolio presentation and the ability to articulate complex design processes and client-facing experiences.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI/UX design, wireframing, prototyping, and design system management. Expert-level proficiency is a core requirement.

• Prototyping Tools: Proficiency with Figma's prototyping features or other related tools for creating interactive user flows.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or similar for team communication and project coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Analytics Tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Mixpanel, Amplitude): Familiarity with user behavior analytics to inform design decisions and measure impact.

• User Feedback Tools: Experience with platforms for collecting and analyzing user feedback.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary focus for a Product Designer, an understanding of how design integrates with CRM systems and marketing automation platforms can be beneficial for holistic product strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: Figma is explicitly stated as a critical tool. General familiarity with analytics and collaboration tools is expected in a modern digital design environment. The emphasis is on design execution and strategic application rather than deep technical skills in CRM or automation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Human-Centered: A deep commitment to understanding and serving user needs.

• Curiosity & Learning: A drive to continuously learn, question the status quo, and explore new ideas (e.g., AI, new technologies).

• Collaboration: Working effectively in cross-functional teams and sharing knowledge openly.

• Ambition & Excellence: Striving for high-quality, impactful work and being the best in one's field.

• Adaptability: Comfort and agility in navigating changing environments and uncertainty.

• Ethical Design: Consideration for the broader societal impact and ethical implications of design.

Collaboration Style:

• Transversal Teams: Working seamlessly with individuals from business, technology, and creative disciplines.

• Open Communication: Encouraging honest feedback, constructive criticism, and active listening.

• Co-creation: Facilitating workshops and collaborative sessions to build solutions together.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in design critiques, internal presentations, and sharing best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values individuals who are not only skilled designers but also strategic thinkers, adaptable learners, and strong collaborators, embodying the agency's philosophy of designing for complex, evolving contexts.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Designing for Uncertainty: Navigating projects with evolving requirements and ambiguous client needs, leveraging design thinking to bring clarity.

• Balancing Diverse Needs: Successfully integrating business objectives, user desires, and technical feasibility within design solutions.

• Global Project Complexity: Adapting designs for different cultural contexts and international markets.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Staying current with advancements in AI, new platforms, and emerging design tools and techniques.

• Client Management: Effectively guiding clients who may have differing visions or levels of design understanding.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Methodologies: Deepen expertise in Service Design, Design Futures, and other emergent design practices.

• AI & Emerging Tech: Explore how AI and new technologies can be leveraged in the design process and product experience.

• Leadership Skills: Develop mentorship, team management, and strategic client advisory capabilities.

• Global Network: Gain exposure to varied international projects and best practices from VML's worldwide network.

• Continuous Training: Access to internal and external training programs, workshops, and potentially industry conferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to working in a leading digital transformation agency. The growth opportunities are designed to help individuals tackle these challenges by expanding their skill sets and strategic influence.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to conceptualize a digital product from scratch. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on ideation, user research, and early-stage design).

• "How do you balance business goals, user needs, and technical feasibility when designing a product? Provide an example." (Highlight your strategic thinking and problem-solving approach).

• "Walk us through a project where you applied Service Design or Design Thinking. What were the key insights, and how did they shape the final solution?" (Demonstrate familiarity with core methodologies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about VML and specifically 'The Cocktail' division's approach to design?" (Research VML's philosophy and this division's unique positioning).

• "Describe your experience working in a hybrid environment and how you maintain collaboration and productivity." (Align with the company's work model).

• "How do you handle ambiguity or uncertainty in a project? Provide an example." (Showcase your adaptability and resilience).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the problem, your specific role and contributions, the methodologies used, your design process, key decisions, challenges overcome, and the final outcomes (ideally with measurable results).

• Figma Walkthrough: Be prepared to share your screen and navigate through your Figma files. Highlight your use of components, auto-layout, prototyping features, and collaboration tools.

• Emphasize Client Interaction: If applicable, describe how you managed client expectations, presented design concepts, and incorporated feedback.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify results where possible (e.g., improved conversion rates, user satisfaction scores, efficiency gains). If exact metrics aren't available, articulate the intended business impact.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice presenting your case studies within a set timeframe (e.g., 10-15 minutes per case study).

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of modern design methodologies, practical application of tools like Figma, strategic thinking, client-facing skills, and alignment with VML's unique approach to design in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the VML careers portal via the provided link.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature at least two to three strong case studies that best align with the job description, emphasizing digital product design, client interaction, and the application of methodologies like Design Thinking or Service Design.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 4+ years of digital product design experience, expert-level Figma skills, fluency in English, and familiarity with the mentioned design methodologies. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear storytelling, process articulation, and demonstrating strategic thinking. Prepare to discuss your approach to challenges, client management, and collaboration.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research VML, its "The Cocktail" division, and its approach to design, particularly concerning AI and digital transformation. Understand their values and recent work to articulate your interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions for a Product Designer role at a global agency. All details should be verified directly with VML during the application and interview process.