Senior UI Designer (contract)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UI Designer (Contract)

Company: VML

Location: Poznan, Greater Poland Voivodeship, Poland

Job Type: Contract

Category: Creative & Design / User Experience

Date Posted: 2026-06-12

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the creation of high-fidelity, pixel-perfect responsive interfaces and digital brand aesthetics to enhance user experience and boost conversion rates for prominent consumer-facing brands.

• Collaborate closely with a cross-functional CX team, including UX Leads, UI Leads, Service Designers, Optimisation Specialists, and Consultants, to deliver innovative digital solutions.

• Leverage expertise in design systems to ensure consistent and scalable design execution across complex projects, adhering to user-centered design best practices, conversion-driven principles, and accessibility standards.

• Articulate and defend design decisions effectively to clients and internal stakeholders, showcasing a strong understanding of both user needs and business objectives within the e-commerce landscape.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is focused on UI Design within a CX (Customer Experience) team, emphasizing conversion-driven design for transactional websites and e-commerce. The "contract" nature suggests a project-based engagement, requiring a candidate adept at delivering high-quality work under defined timelines. The hybrid model with a specified 4-day office presence indicates a need for strong collaboration within the Poznan office.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the digital brand look and feel, crafting pixel-perfect, responsive interfaces that align with both user needs and overarching business objectives.

• Apply and manage design systems to create design solutions at scale, ensuring consistency and efficiency across multiple client projects.

• Implement user-centered design best practices, conversion design principles, and accessibility standards to optimize user journeys and engagement.

• Produce work of the highest standard that impresses clients and resonates within the competitive e-commerce landscape, supported by a compelling portfolio.

• Maintain an up-to-date understanding of the latest advancements in design technology, tools, and industry trends to inform design strategies and execution.

• Communicate design ideas, solutions, and rationale clearly and confidently to clients and team members, effectively defending design decisions.

• Collaborate closely with a diverse group of stakeholders, including fellow designers, UX consultants, product managers, and developers, to ensure seamless project execution.

• Manage individual projects efficiently, working quickly and accurately to meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution, strategic application of design systems, and strong communication/collaboration skills, all within a conversion-focused e-commerce context. The emphasis on "pixel-perfect" and "highest standard" points to a need for meticulous attention to detail.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Degree educated in Graphic/UI Design or a similar relevant discipline. Experience:

• A minimum of 5-10 years of professional UI design experience, with a strong emphasis on e-commerce and consumer-facing brands.

• Proven experience working with and contributing to design systems on a large scale.

• Demonstrable experience in e-commerce design, including transactional websites and conversion-focused interfaces.

• Experience working within a digital or creative agency environment or an in-house design studio. Required Skills:

• Excellent design skills with advanced proficiency in industry-standard tools: Figma, Sketch, and Adobe Creative Suite.

• Strong understanding of user-centered design best practices, conversion design principles, and accessibility standards.

• Exceptional eye for design, typography, and visual hierarchy.

• Meticulous attention to detail, with a keen sense of craftsmanship and quality.

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, working quickly and accurately under tight deadlines.

• Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to challenges.

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate and defend design decisions.

• A great attitude, strong work ethic, and self-motivated with an enthusiastic and confident demeanor.

• Willingness to adapt to new challenges and a drive for continuous improvement.

• Passion for technology and web-based applications. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with design tokens.

• Familiarity with animation and video tools such as Adobe After Effects and Final Cut Pro.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 5-10 years aligns with a "Senior" title, indicating a need for a candidate who can lead and mentor, not just execute. The specific tool requirements (Figma, Sketch, Adobe CC) are critical and should be a primary focus for applicants. The "contract" nature might imply a need for rapid onboarding and immediate contribution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A compelling portfolio that clearly demonstrates high-quality online design work, with a significant emphasis on e-commerce projects.

• Case studies showcasing the design process from concept to execution, highlighting problem-solving methodologies and user-centric design approaches.

• Examples of responsive interface design across various devices and screen sizes.

• Demonstration of work created using or contributing to design systems, illustrating scalability and consistency.

• Evidence of conversion-led design strategies and their impact on user behavior or business metrics. Process Documentation:

• The portfolio should implicitly or explicitly detail the candidate's process for:

  • User research and persona development.

  • Information architecture and user flow mapping.

  • Wireframing and prototyping.

  • Visual design and UI element creation.

  • Usability testing and iteration.

  • Collaboration with development and stakeholder teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role, acting as the primary validation of skills. It must not only showcase aesthetic quality but also demonstrate a strategic, process-driven approach to UI design, particularly within the e-commerce domain. The inclusion of "conversion-led design" means candidates should be prepared to discuss how their designs impact business outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is a contract role, compensation will likely be based on an hourly or daily rate, reflecting the Senior UI Designer's experience and the project scope. Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UI Designers in Poland with 5-10 years of experience, and considering the contract nature and agency environment, a typical range might be between 150 - 300 PLN per hour, or approximately 25,000 - 45,000 PLN gross per month for a full-time equivalent contract. Benefits:

• Opportunity to work with globally recognized brands and exciting clients.

• Focus on career development and skill growth support.

• Empowerment to make a significant impact on client projects.

• An inclusive and respectful work environment that values individuality.

• Access to VML's collaborative and innovative culture. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week. The hybrid model requires 4 days in the office per week, with flexibility potentially available for the fifth day or specific arrangements to be discussed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical contract rates for senior design roles in Poland. Specific benefits for contract roles can vary; the listed benefits are derived from the company's general offering and are tailored to resonate with design professionals seeking growth and impactful work. The "contract" status may affect the typical benefits package compared to a permanent role.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing & Advertising, Digital Transformation, Customer Experience (CX)

Company Size: Large (26,000+ global employees, with VML Enterprise Solutions being a significant division)

Founded: VML was founded in 2001, and merged with Wunderman in 2020 to form Wunderman Thompson, which was later rebranded as VML in 2024. WPP is a long-established global leader in marketing and communications.

Team Structure:

• The role is within a rapidly expanding CX team, working alongside Leads in UX, UI, Service Design, Optimisation, and Consulting.

• This implies a multidisciplinary team environment where collaboration across different design and strategic specialisms is key.

• The Senior UI Designer will report to a Design Lead or CX Lead and work closely with UX designers, product managers, and developers. Methodology:

• VML emphasizes a human-first, data-driven approach to creating connected brands, integrating brand experience, customer experience, and commerce.

• The team likely employs agile methodologies, focusing on iterative design, user feedback, and continuous optimization.

• Emphasis on conversion-led design and driving measurable business growth for clients is a core tenet.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: VML, as part of WPP, is a global powerhouse. The "Enterprise Solutions" division suggests a focus on large-scale digital transformation and commerce platforms for major brands. The culture is described as "human first," "impact-driven," and values "Heart, Brains, and Courage," indicating a blend of empathy, intelligence, and boldness.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior UI Designer (Contract)

• This role is positioned at a senior individual contributor level, requiring a high degree of autonomy and expertise. The contract nature means the immediate focus is on project delivery, but the experience gained working with top-tier clients and complex projects offers significant career development opportunities. Reporting Structure:

• The Senior UI Designer will likely report to a Design Lead or Head of CX within the Poznan-based team. They will collaborate extensively with UX Designers, Service Designers, Product Managers, and Development teams. Operations Impact:

• The primary impact of this role is on improving user interfaces, enhancing customer experience, and directly driving conversion rates and transactional success for VML's high-profile clients. The work contributes to the overall digital strategy and commercial performance of these brands. Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like e-commerce design, design systems, or conversion optimization.

• Leadership: Potential to lead design initiatives on projects, mentor junior designers (if applicable within the contract structure), or transition to a permanent role with leadership potential.

• Skill Development: Exposure to a wide range of client challenges and technologies, opportunities for professional development and learning through VML's resources and client projects.

• Portfolio Enhancement: Building a robust portfolio with work for leading global brands, significantly boosting future career prospects.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a contract role, the "Senior" designation and the nature of VML's client work provide substantial opportunities for professional growth and portfolio enrichment. The focus on "impact-driven individuals" suggests that demonstrating tangible results will be key to career progression within VML or future engagements.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, with a requirement to be in the office 4 days a week. This suggests a collaborative office environment designed for teamwork and in-person interaction.

Office Location(s): Poznan, Greater Poland Voivodeship, Poland. This indicates a physical presence requirement in their Polish office.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and connection, supporting the hybrid model.

• Expect access to the necessary design tools and technology, likely including high-performance workstations and collaborative spaces.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with fellow designers, UX consultants, product managers, and developers, facilitating seamless workflow and knowledge sharing. Work Schedule:

• The role is full-time, with a standard working week. The hybrid model means specific days will be dedicated to in-office work, facilitating team synergy and project alignment. Flexibility might be discussed for the remaining day, or specific project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key factor. The 4-day in-office requirement emphasizes the importance of face-to-face collaboration, team building, and leveraging office resources for design work. Candidates should be comfortable with this structure and the dynamic pace of agency life.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CV and portfolio to assess suitability for the Senior UI Designer role and contract engagement.

• Portfolio Presentation/Walkthrough: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, detailing their process, design decisions, and the impact of their work, particularly on e-commerce projects.

• Skills Assessment: Technical assessment focusing on proficiency in Figma, Sketch, and Adobe Creative Suite, potentially through a design challenge or practical exercise.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Discussion focused on work ethic, problem-solving abilities, collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with VML's values (Heart, Brains, Courage).

• Stakeholder/Lead Interview: Conversation with hiring manager or design lead to delve deeper into experience, approach to complex projects, and ability to manage client relationships.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects, prioritizing e-commerce and conversion-focused work.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, your process, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., conversion lift, user satisfaction improvements).

• Highlight Process: Showcase your thought process, including user research, wireframing, prototyping, user testing, and iteration.

• Showcase Systems Thinking: If applicable, present work that demonstrates experience with design systems, explaining how you leveraged them for scale and consistency.

• Be Prepared for "Why": Be ready to explain the rationale behind every design decision.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design challenges may focus on UI problem-solving, rapid prototyping, or adapting a given brief within a specific timeframe.

• Practice sketching and wireframing quickly.

• Be prepared to articulate your design thinking process verbally and visually.

• For a contract role, demonstrating speed and efficiency alongside quality will be crucial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the portfolio. Candidates should prepare to not just show their work but to deconstruct it, explaining the strategic thinking and process behind each element, especially as it relates to conversion and user experience in e-commerce. The contract nature might mean a more streamlined, expedited process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI design, prototyping, and collaboration. Expected high proficiency.

• Sketch: Another key tool for UI design, often used in agency environments. Proficiency is required.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Including Photoshop for image manipulation and Illustrator for vector graphics.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary design tool, understanding how to interpret data from analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics) to inform design decisions and measure impact is beneficial. CRM & Automation:

• Familiarity with how UI designs integrate into broader customer journeys managed through CRM systems or marketing automation platforms is advantageous, though direct use is unlikely for this role. Other Potentially Relevant Tools:

• Prototyping Tools: InVision, Adobe XD (though Figma and Sketch often cover this).

• Design System Tools: Zeplin, Abstract.

• Collaboration Tools: Slack, Microsoft Teams, Jira.

• Preferred Skills: Experience with design tokens.

• Beneficial Skills: Adobe After Effects and Final Cut Pro for animation/video work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Figma, Sketch, and Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Knowledge of design tokens and animation tools are strong pluses, indicating a candidate who is up-to-date with modern design workflows and potential project needs.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Heart: Emphasizes empathy, trust, and human-centric work. The designer should approach projects with an understanding of user needs and foster positive relationships within the team.

• Brains: Values relentless curiosity, collaborative intelligence, and innovation to solve complex challenges. This means approaching design problems analytically and seeking creative, data-informed solutions.

• Courage: Inspires speaking up, embracing experimentation, and advocating for bold solutions. Designers are encouraged to challenge the status quo, propose innovative ideas, and confidently defend their design choices.

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative, with a strong emphasis on cross-functional teamwork. Designers are expected to work closely with UX, Service Design, Product Management, and Development teams.

• A culture of open communication, feedback exchange, and shared problem-solving is expected.

• The hybrid model necessitates proactive communication and efficient use of both in-person and remote collaboration tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: VML's core values of Heart, Brains, and Courage are central to their culture. Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate how they embody these values in their work, particularly the courage to advocate for strong design solutions and the brains to solve complex problems collaboratively.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Client Demands with Best Practices: Navigating client-specific requirements, brand guidelines, and business objectives while upholding user-centered design principles, conversion optimization, and accessibility standards.

• Fast-Paced Agency Environment: Adapting to tight deadlines, multiple projects simultaneously, and evolving client needs common in a digital agency setting.

• Scaling Designs: Ensuring consistency and quality across large consumer-facing brands and complex e-commerce platforms using design systems.

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Effectively communicating and collaborating with diverse teams (UX, Dev, Product, Marketing) who may have different priorities or perspectives.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Exposure to Global Brands: Gaining experience and insights from working on projects for world-leading brands.

• Cutting-Edge Design Practices: Staying ahead of industry trends in UI/UX, e-commerce, and digital transformation.

• Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to hone skills in Figma, Sketch, Adobe CC, design systems, conversion design, and potentially animation/video through project work.

• Networking: Building professional connections within a large global agency network.

• Portfolio Building: Creating a strong portfolio with impactful case studies that can propel future career opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical of senior roles in top-tier agencies. The growth opportunities are significant, especially for a contract role, as it provides high-impact experience that can be leveraged for future permanent positions or further contract work.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance a client's specific request with best UX/UI practices. How did you navigate it?" (Assesses problem-solving, communication, and advocacy skills).

• "Walk us through a complex e-commerce UI project from your portfolio. What were the biggest challenges, and how did your design decisions address them?" (Assesses process, e-commerce expertise, and impact demonstration).

• "How do you approach designing for conversion optimization? Can you provide an example?" (Assesses understanding of business goals and data-driven design).

• "How do you ensure your designs are accessible and inclusive?" (Assesses awareness of critical design standards). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about VML and this specific contract role?" (Assesses research and motivation).

• "How do you embody our values of Heart, Brains, and Courage in your design work?" (Assesses cultural fit).

• "Describe your ideal collaboration style with UX designers, developers, and product managers." (Assesses teamwork and communication).

• "How do you stay updated on the latest design trends and technologies?" (Assesses continuous learning). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, aim for: Problem > Your Role > Process > Solution > Outcome.

• Conciseness: Be clear and to the point. Focus on the most critical aspects of your contribution and the project's success.

• Visuals: Use high-quality mockups, prototypes, and user flows. Annotate key decisions.

• Metrics: Quantify impact whenever possible (e.g., "Increased conversion by X%," "Reduced bounce rate by Y%").

• Adaptability: Be ready to pivot and discuss specific aspects of your work based on interviewer interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a clear understanding of the e-commerce landscape, conversion optimization, and the ability to translate business objectives into user-centric design solutions. Be prepared to discuss your process in detail and defend your design decisions with logic and data.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UI Designer contract position:

• Submit your application through the VML careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your CV and portfolio are tailored to highlight your strongest e-commerce UI design experience, proficiency in Figma/Sketch/Adobe CC, and any experience with design systems or conversion-led design.

• Resume Optimization: Clearly state your years of experience, key tool proficiencies, and specific achievements related to UI design, user experience, and conversion optimization. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and project outcomes, focusing on client-facing communication and how your work drives business results. Prepare to present your portfolio confidently.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with VML's work, client portfolio, and core values (Heart, Brains, Courage) to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

⚠️ 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.