Product designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: Watershed

Location: London, England, United Kingdom

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Product Design / ESG & Sustainability Tech

Date Posted: May 15, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead product design for Watershed's critical ESG reporting application, focusing on building a highly competitive, end-to-end reporting platform.

• Design and implement innovative, AI-powered user experiences that enable large organizations to scale their reporting efforts.

• Drive deep customer discovery and leverage product analytics to iterate on solutions, directly impacting meaningful product and business metrics.

• Develop the strategic vision and product roadmap for future reporting capabilities, collaborating closely with Engineering, Product, and Go-to-Market teams.

• Become an expert in the climate tech and ESG reporting domain, contributing to a mission-driven startup focused on decarbonization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on the "Reporting Team" within Watershed, indicating a specialization in the complex workflows and data management required for ESG and climate reporting. The emphasis on AI integration suggests a forward-thinking approach to product development in this domain.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the design strategy and execution for Watershed's ESG reporting application, aiming to establish a market-leading, comprehensive reporting product.

• Craft user-centric designs for AI-powered features such as multi-player report authoring, reusable metrics libraries, and flexible report customization to support global enterprise clients.

• Conduct in-depth user research and leverage product analytics to identify pain points, validate hypotheses, and drive iterative improvements that enhance user adoption and client success.

• Define and articulate the product vision and strategy for the reporting domain, translating complex business needs into intuitive and impactful design solutions.

• Collaborate effectively with Engineering, Product Management, and Go-to-Market (GTM) teams to ensure seamless product development, from ideation through to market launch and ongoing iteration.

• Integrate AI capabilities throughout the design process and within the product itself to optimize user workflows and deliver enhanced value for customers.

• Contribute to the continuous refinement of design processes, fostering a culture of critique, collaboration, and craft excellence within the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of strategic product visioning and detailed execution, typical for a senior product designer role. The specific mention of "AI-powered multi-player report authoring" and "reusable metrics and answers" points to complex product challenges requiring sophisticated design thinking and systems-level understanding.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating a deep understanding of design principles and practical application in complex software environments is paramount.

Experience: A minimum of 5 years of professional experience designing software products, with a preference for B2B SaaS, enterprise software, or roles involving technically complex problem spaces.

Required Skills:

• Proven expertise in Product Design, with a strong portfolio showcasing end-to-end design ownership from discovery to launch.

• Demonstrated experience in B2B Software Design, understanding the nuances of enterprise user needs and workflows.

• Proficient in Systems Thinking and ability to design complex, interconnected product ecosystems.

• Strong Interaction Design craft, with a focus on creating intuitive and efficient user flows.

• Experience designing and shipping AI-powered products or integrating AI tools into design workflows.

• Proficiency in core design craft fundamentals, including a solid understanding of design processes, visual design, and attention to detail.

• Experience conducting User Research and leveraging customer feedback and product analytics to inform design decisions.

• Ability to drive Product Strategy and contribute to long-term product vision.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience within the Climate Tech or ESG Reporting domain.

• Familiarity with regulatory reporting frameworks such as CSRD.

• Experience in Data Visualization and designing interfaces for complex data sets.

• A track record of building 0-1 products or significant new product features.

• Passion for and understanding of decarbonization initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for 5+ years of experience, coupled with the emphasis on B2B, complex problem spaces, and AI product experience, positions this as a senior-level individual contributor role. The "knack for in-the-weeds systems thinking" and "love for rapid, 0-1 product building" are key indicators of the desired mindset for this position.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated selection of case studies demonstrating end-to-end product design ownership for complex B2B software products.

• Evidence of tackling challenging problems, including deep discovery, strategic product thinking, and iterative design solutions.

• Examples showcasing proficiency in systems thinking, interaction design craft, and a keen eye for polish.

• Specific projects that highlight experience with AI-powered features or the integration of AI tools in the design process.

Process Documentation:

• Case studies should clearly articulate the problem statement, the design process undertaken (including research, ideation, prototyping, and testing), and the final solution.

• For each case study, clearly define the user goals and business objectives that the design aimed to address.

• Quantify the impact of the design solutions wherever possible, using metrics related to user engagement, efficiency, adoption, or business outcomes.

• Illustrate the collaborative process with engineering, product management, and other stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this seniority and focus on complex B2B software, a portfolio is critical. It needs to go beyond just visuals and demonstrate strategic thinking, problem-solving methodology, and measurable impact, especially concerning complex systems and AI integrations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on comparable Product Designer roles with 5-10 years of experience in London's tech sector, particularly within B2B SaaS and climate tech, the estimated salary range is £70,000 - £100,000 per annum. This estimate considers the company's stage, the role's seniority, and the specific demands of designing for complex ESG reporting and AI features.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and equity package.

• Comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision).

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and public holiday allowance.

• Parental leave policies.

• Professional development budget for conferences, courses, and learning resources.

• Opportunities for career advancement within a rapidly growing, mission-driven company.

• Hybrid work model with 4 days in the London office, fostering collaboration and team cohesion.

• Access to cutting-edge tools and technologies.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours, typically around 40 hours per week. While the role requires 4 days in the London office, there may be flexibility in daily start and end times, subject to team needs and project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general market data for senior Product Designers in London. Specific compensation would be confirmed during the interview process and would depend on the candidate's experience and qualifications. The emphasis on a hybrid model with 4 office days is a key aspect of the work arrangement.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Environmental & Sustainability Tech, B2B SaaS. Watershed operates at the intersection of climate action and enterprise software, providing a critical platform for companies to manage their environmental impact. This industry is characterized by rapid innovation, a strong mission focus, and increasing regulatory pressure.

Company Size: Watershed is a rapidly growing startup, likely in the Series B or C funding stage, with a significant employee base across multiple international offices. This size offers the agility of a startup combined with the resources and structure to tackle large-scale enterprise challenges.

Founded: Watershed was founded in 2019. This relatively recent founding means the company culture is still actively being shaped, offering opportunities for early employees to influence its direction and values.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team is likely structured around product areas or pods, with designers embedded within cross-functional Engineering, Product, and Design (EPD) teams.

• The "Reporting Team" specifically will have its own dedicated designer(s) working closely with Product Managers and Engineers focused on ESG reporting features.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Strong emphasis on using product analytics and customer feedback to inform design and product strategy.

• Iterative Development: Agile methodologies and a focus on rapid iteration to continuously improve product offerings.

• Customer Obsession: Deep engagement with users and prospects to understand their needs and pain points thoroughly.

• AI Integration: Proactive exploration and implementation of AI to enhance both the design process and the end-user product experience.

Company Website: https://watershed.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Watershed's focus on enterprise sustainability and its rapid growth indicate a culture that values impact, innovation, and collaboration. The company's mission is a strong cultural driver, attracting individuals passionate about climate solutions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior Product Designer role, specifically leading design for a critical product area (Reporting). It signifies a high level of autonomy, responsibility for strategic product direction, and the expectation to mentor or influence other designers.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report to a Design Lead or Head of Product Design. They will work in close partnership with a Product Manager and Engineering Lead for the Reporting team.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer will have a direct and significant impact on Watershed's core product offering, influencing customer acquisition, retention, and the company's overall mission success. Designing a best-in-class ESG reporting platform is crucial for competitive advantage and customer value.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership: Potential to grow into a Design Lead role for the Reporting domain or other product areas, managing a team of designers and shaping broader design strategy.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in climate tech, ESG reporting, and AI-driven product development, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Functional Influence: Expand influence across EPD and GTM teams, contributing to broader company strategy and product vision.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior designers and contribute to the overall growth and development of the design team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for advancement, moving from leading a specific product area to potentially managing larger teams or influencing company-wide product strategy. The opportunity to build deep domain expertise in a high-impact field is a significant growth driver.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Watershed operates with a hybrid work model, maintaining physical office hubs in key locations like London. This suggests a dynamic environment that balances in-person collaboration with remote flexibility.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Watershed's London office. This provides access to a vibrant tech ecosystem and opportunities for in-person collaboration with colleagues.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The London office likely features open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated collaboration zones designed to facilitate teamwork between product, engineering, and design.

• Technology & Tools: Expect access to modern design software, collaboration platforms, and potentially specialized hardware for prototyping or research.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model necessitates intentional efforts for team connection, with opportunities for spontaneous brainstorming in the office and structured virtual interactions.

Work Schedule: The role requires 4 days per week in the London office. The remaining day can be remote. Standard working hours apply, with flexibility expected to meet project deadlines and collaborative needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The 4-day in-office requirement is a key aspect of the work environment, indicating a preference for in-person collaboration on core working days. This setup aims to balance the benefits of remote work with the advantages of face-to-face interaction for product development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Conversations: 1-2 introductory calls to discuss Watershed, your background, and interests. This is an opportunity to gauge mutual fit.

• Skill/Experience Interview: For designers, this will be a Portfolio Review. Expect to present 2-3 key case studies, detailing your process, challenges, solutions, and impact. Be prepared to discuss your systems thinking, interaction craft, and AI product experience.

• Panel Interview: A series of interviews with cross-functional team members (Product, Engineering, Design, potentially GTM) to assess technical skills, problem-solving abilities, cultural fit, and strategic thinking.

• Transparency: Watershed emphasizes transparency and aims to avoid surprises throughout the process.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select case studies that best demonstrate your experience with complex B2B software, systems thinking, AI, and driving measurable impact. Tailor your selection to the specific requirements of this role.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your approach, the trade-offs you made, your specific contributions, and the outcomes. Focus on the "why" behind your design decisions.

• Highlight Process: Showcase your design process, from initial research and ideation through to iteration and final implementation. Explain how you collaborated with stakeholders.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs. This is crucial for this role focused on business and product metrics.

• AI Integration: Be ready to discuss how you leveraged AI in your design process or within the product itself, and the results achieved.

Challenge Preparation:

• Product Thinking: Be prepared to discuss your approach to understanding customer needs, market dynamics, and business goals within the sustainability/ESG reporting space.

• Systems Design: Think about how you would approach designing complex, interconnected systems, such as a reporting platform with reusable components and AI-driven features.

• Collaboration: Consider how you would partner effectively with product managers, engineers, and sales teams to bring product visions to life.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is the critical step for this role. Candidates should meticulously prepare their case studies to showcase not just design execution but also strategic thinking, problem-solving methodologies, and a data-driven approach, particularly concerning complex B2B and AI-driven products.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design Software: Figma (highly probable, industry standard for collaborative UI/UX design).

• Prototyping Tools: InVision, Principle, or Figma's built-in prototyping capabilities for creating interactive mockups.

• Whiteboarding & Collaboration: Miro or Mural for remote brainstorming, user journey mapping, and collaborative design sessions.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Product Analytics: Amplitude, Mixpanel, or similar tools for understanding user behavior, tracking feature adoption, and measuring product metrics.

• Data Visualization: While not a primary design tool, understanding how data is presented and potentially contributing to dashboard design may be required.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly used by designers, an understanding of how CRM data (e.g., Salesforce) and automation platforms (e.g., Marketo, HubSpot) influence customer workflows and product adoption can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma is almost a given for a modern product design role. Familiarity with product analytics tools is essential for a data-informed design approach. The role's focus on AI may also imply familiarity with AI-assisted design tools or platforms.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven Impact: A core value is contributing to meaningful climate solutions and helping companies achieve their sustainability goals.

• Customer Obsession: Deep commitment to understanding and solving customer problems through excellent product design.

• Collaboration & Transparency: Open communication, respectful feedback exchange, and a shared ownership of product success.

• Bias for Action & Speed: A startup mentality that values moving fast, iterating quickly, and taking ownership.

• Excellence in Craft: A dedication to high-quality design execution, attention to detail, and continuous improvement of design skills.

Collaboration Style:

• Embedded Pods: Designers work closely within cross-functional EPD teams, fostering tight integration with Product Managers and Engineers.

• Regular Critiques: Weekly "jams and crits" are mentioned, indicating a culture of constructive feedback and peer-to-peer learning within the design team.

• Cross-Functional Partnerships: Active collaboration with GTM teams to ensure market understanding and successful product launches.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "jams and crits" highlights a collaborative design culture focused on mutual improvement. The company's mission is a significant cultural anchor, attracting individuals passionate about sustainability.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Domain: Mastering the intricacies of ESG reporting, carbon accounting, and regulatory compliance within a rapidly evolving landscape.

• Balancing User Needs & Business Goals: Designing for diverse enterprise clients with varying reporting requirements while aligning with Watershed's strategic objectives.

• AI Integration: Effectively leveraging AI to enhance user experience and product capabilities without creating complexity or user frustration.

• Scaling Impact: Designing solutions that can scale to accommodate the needs of the world's largest organizations and their growing reporting demands.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Domain Expertise: Becoming a recognized expert in climate tech and ESG reporting through hands-on product development.

• AI in Design: Developing advanced skills in applying AI tools and principles to product design.

• Product Strategy: Contributing to and shaping the strategic direction of a high-growth B2B SaaS product.

• Leadership Skills: Opportunities to lead design initiatives, mentor junior colleagues, and influence product strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the complexity of the domain and the innovative application of AI. Growth opportunities are strong, particularly for those seeking to build deep expertise in a critical and rapidly expanding industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led the design for a complex B2B software feature. What was the problem, your process, and the outcome?" (Focus on systems thinking, user impact, and metrics.)

• "How would you approach designing an AI-powered feature for ESG reporting that enhances user efficiency?" (Discuss discovery, AI integration, user experience, and potential challenges.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in Watershed and the mission of sustainability?" (Connect personal values to the company's mission.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with product managers and engineers, especially in a hybrid environment?" (Emphasize communication, empathy, and shared ownership.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each case study, use a clear narrative: Problem -> Your Role & Process -> Solution -> Impact & Learnings.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify results whenever possible (e.g., increased adoption by X%, reduced task completion time by Y%, improved reporting accuracy).

• Demonstrate Craft: Be ready to discuss specific design decisions, interaction patterns, and why you made them.

• Explain AI Usage: Clearly articulate any AI tools used in your process or AI features designed, and their impact.

• Engage: Be prepared for follow-up questions from the panel, showing your ability to think on your feet and articulate your reasoning.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design execution but also strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and a deep understanding of B2B SaaS product development, especially with AI integration. The ability to articulate impact through metrics is paramount.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Ashby.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to highlight 2-3 relevant case studies that demonstrate your experience with B2B software, complex systems, AI, and driving measurable impact. Prioritize projects that showcase your end-to-end design process and strategic thinking.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your experience in product design, specifically mentioning B2B environments, complex problem spaces, AI product experience, and any relevant domain knowledge (sustainability, ESG). Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear storytelling, process articulation, and quantifiable outcomes. Prepare to discuss your strategic approach to design challenges and your understanding of Watershed's mission.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Watershed's product, mission, target market, and recent news. Understand the competitive landscape for sustainability and ESG reporting platforms. Be ready to articulate why you are a good fit for their culture 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.

---