Senior UX Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Designer

Company: VML

Location: Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: User Experience (UX) Design / Customer Experience (CX)

Date Posted: 2026-04-27

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Office attendance 4 days/week)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end user experience design process for complex ecommerce and digital platforms, ensuring seamless customer journeys.

• Drive critical CX initiatives by conducting in-depth user research, analyzing data, and translating insights into actionable design strategies.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including UI designers, service designers, developers, and account leads, to deliver best-in-class digital experiences.

• Champion user-centric design principles and effectively communicate design rationale and product strategy to both internal stakeholders and C-suite clients.

• Contribute to the growth and innovative output of VML's rapidly expanding CX team, working with leading global brands.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is titled "Senior UX Designer," the responsibilities and context provided by VML's Enterprise Solutions division indicate a strong focus on customer experience (CX) strategy, digital product design, and ecommerce solutions. The role requires a blend of strategic thinking, hands-on design execution, and client-facing leadership, aligning with senior-level operations and GTM enablement functions, particularly in areas of digital transformation and customer journey optimization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and facilitate business requirements and product definition workshops, gathering key insights from stakeholders.

• Scope, manage, and execute a diverse range of qualitative and quantitative user research methodologies (e.g., interviews, surveys, usability testing, analytics review).

• Analyze research data to identify significant user behaviors, pain points, and opportunities for innovation in digital experiences.

• Apply design thinking frameworks to conceptualize and develop feasible, viable, and desirable solutions for new products, services, and propositions.

• Create comprehensive design artifacts, including but not limited to: personas, detailed journey maps, storyboards, process flows, information architecture diagrams, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.

• Articulate and advocate for proposed product strategies and design approaches, building consensus among diverse stakeholder groups.

• Partner with fellow designers, program managers, developers, and account leads to elevate design quality and ensure successful user experience implementation.

• Provide UX leadership to clients and internal teams, understanding business drivers and translating them into effective user-centered solutions.

• Present and effectively communicate design ideas, rationale, and strategic recommendations to working groups and executive-level audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a senior-level role with significant ownership over the entire UX lifecycle, from discovery and research to final design and stakeholder communication. This aligns with operational excellence in product development and customer engagement strategy.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Specific degree requirements are not detailed, but a background in Design (e.g., Interaction Design, Graphic Design, Human-Computer Interaction), Psychology, or a related field is typically expected for Senior UX roles.

Experience: Significant proven experience in UX design, with a strong preference for agency experience, is essential. The role demands 5-10 years of hands-on experience in designing and delivering complex digital solutions.

Required Skills:

• Significant proven experience in UX Design, ideally within a creative agency environment.

• A compelling portfolio showcasing high-quality, best-in-class UX design work, with a specific emphasis on ecommerce or complex user journeys.

• Proven ability to own and manage the full UX process, from discovery phases (internal/external, qual/quant research) to problem-solving using design thinking methods.

• Solid information architecture, interaction design, and overall experience design skills.

• Ability to understand and balance technical constraints, user goals, and business requirements.

• Excellent client communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence and build consensus.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with a wide array of UX tools for wireframing, prototyping, and user research (e.g., Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, Miro, UserTesting.com).

• Familiarity with enterprise-level platforms and technologies relevant to VML's client base (e.g., Adobe Experience Cloud, Salesforce Commerce Cloud, SAP Commerce Cloud, Shopify Plus).

• Experience in Service Design, contributing to holistic customer experience strategies.

• Knowledge of accessibility standards and best practices (WCAG).

• Experience working within Agile development methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "compelling portfolio" and "significant proven experience" highlights VML's need for a candidate who can demonstrably solve complex UX challenges, particularly in high-stakes ecommerce environments. The "breadth of experience in e-commerce or complex journeys" suggests a need for candidates who understand conversion optimization and customer lifecycle management from a UX perspective.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio is a mandatory requirement, demonstrating a strong track record of successful UX design projects.

• Showcase projects that highlight expertise in ecommerce, complex user journeys, and end-to-end UX process ownership.

• Include case studies that detail the problem, your role, the design process (research, ideation, iteration), and the measurable impact or outcomes of your solutions.

• Demonstrate proficiency in creating key design artifacts such as personas, journey maps, wireframes, and interactive prototypes.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of leading and documenting discovery phases, including research plans and findings.

• Examples of how you've applied design thinking and user-centered methodologies to solve specific design problems.

• Documentation of your iterative design process, including user testing and incorporating feedback.

• Showcase of your ability to create clear and concise process flows, information architecture diagrams, and user journey maps.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior UX Designer role, the portfolio is not just a collection of work but a critical tool for demonstrating process, problem-solving capabilities, and impact. Applicants should be prepared to walk through their portfolio and articulate the "why" behind their design decisions, especially concerning business objectives and user needs in an ecommerce context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on industry benchmarks for Senior UX Designers with 5-10 years of experience in a major European city like Lisbon, and considering VML's standing as a global agency within WPP, a competitive annual salary range would typically fall between €45,000 and €70,000. This estimate accounts for the cost of living in Lisbon, the seniority of the role, and the agency's market position.

Benefits:

• Training opportunities for continuous skill development and career advancement.

• Comprehensive medical insurance coverage.

• Dental insurance for oral health needs.

• Meal cards to assist with daily food expenses.

• Opportunities for social events to foster team camaraderie and networking.

• Family-friendly policies to support work-life balance.

Working Hours:

The standard working hours are approximately 40 hours per week, typical for full-time employment in Portugal. The role operates on a hybrid model, requiring attendance in the office for an average of four days per week, allowing for flexibility and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research from reputable salary aggregators for UX Design roles in Lisbon, adjusted for a senior-level position within a large, international agency. Benefits listed are directly from the job description, highlighting VML's commitment to employee well-being and professional growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing & Advertising, Digital Transformation, Customer Experience (CX), Commerce Solutions. VML operates within the dynamic and competitive landscape of global marketing services, leveraging technology and creativity to drive client growth.

Company Size: VML is a large global agency, part of WPP, with 26,000+ employees across 55+ markets. This scale offers extensive resources, diverse client opportunities, and a broad professional network.

Founded: VML was founded in 1992, evolving through mergers and acquisitions to become a significant player in the industry. Its integration into WPP further solidifies its global reach and capabilities.

Team Structure:

• The CX team is rapidly expanding and includes specialized Leads in UX, UI, Service Design, Optimization, and Consulting.

• The Senior UX Designer will report into the Lead UX, working closely with other design disciplines and project management.

Methodology:

• VML emphasizes a human-first, award-winning approach to creative work and client solutions.

• Design thinking, user research, and data analysis are core to problem-solving and innovation.

• The Enterprise Solutions division focuses on delivering outstanding digital experiences across various market routes (marketplaces, online retailers, D2C, B2B, social).

• Collaboration with strategic partners like Adobe, SAP, Salesforce, and Shopify is integral to their service offering.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: VML's culture is shaped by its WPP heritage and its focus on creating "connected brands." The "Enterprise Solutions" division highlights a strategic, technology-driven approach to commerce and digital experiences, suggesting operations-minded professionals will find opportunities to optimize business processes and drive revenue through digital channels.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Senior level, requiring significant autonomy, leadership in design execution, and client-facing responsibilities. It's a key contributor role within the CX/UX discipline, impacting the strategic direction and quality of digital solutions for major brands.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UX Designer reports to the Lead UX, who in turn likely reports to a Head of UX or Head of CX. This structure provides clear guidance while allowing for significant individual contribution and decision-making.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts client success by designing user experiences that drive engagement, conversion, and customer loyalty in ecommerce and digital platforms. This has a direct correlation to revenue generation and brand growth for VML's clients.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in ecommerce UX, service design, and leading complex design projects. Exposure to cutting-edge technologies and client challenges.

• Leadership Development: Potential to grow into a Lead UX/CX role, mentoring junior designers and shaping team strategy. Opportunity to take on more significant client leadership responsibilities.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to UI design, Service Design, Optimization, and Consulting within the CX team, allowing for a broader understanding of digital transformation.

• Global Network: Access to a vast network of professionals within VML and WPP, offering opportunities for collaboration and learning across different markets and specializations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Enterprise Solutions" context suggests that growth might also involve developing expertise in specific commerce platforms (e.g., Adobe, Salesforce, Shopify) and contributing to large-scale digital transformation projects, which are highly valued in operations and GTM roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Lisbon, Portugal, and operates on a hybrid model. The office environment is designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and connection, with teams expected to be in the office an average of four days a week.

Office Location(s): Specific office details for Lisbon are not provided, but VML has principal offices globally, indicating a professional and well-equipped workspace.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model facilitates focused work at home and collaborative sessions, workshops, and team building in the office.

• Expect access to industry-standard design tools and technologies, supported by a large agency infrastructure.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with a diverse team of designers, strategists, and developers, fostering a dynamic and innovative work environment.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the hybrid model offering flexibility in balancing office and remote work days. Specific working hours within the day may be flexible, subject to team and client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key aspect of the work environment, emphasizing a balance between focused individual work and collaborative team interaction, which is crucial for complex design and strategy development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of CV and portfolio to assess experience, skills, and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Presentation: A key stage will involve presenting your portfolio, showcasing your UX design process, problem-solving skills, and impact on previous projects, particularly in ecommerce. Be prepared to discuss your rationale and outcomes.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or case study to evaluate your practical UX skills, design thinking approach, and ability to work under simulated project conditions.

• Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with UX/CX Leads, Hiring Managers, and potentially other team members to assess collaboration style, technical depth, and strategic thinking.

• Cultural Fit: Discussions to gauge alignment with VML's core values (Heart, Brains, Courage) and the agency's collaborative, human-first approach.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentations as compelling narratives. Clearly articulate the problem, your specific role and contributions, the design process, key decisions, and the measurable results or learnings.

• Focus on Impact: Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., increased conversion rates, reduced bounce rates, improved user satisfaction scores). Highlight how your UX solutions drove business objectives.

• Showcase Process: Demonstrate your understanding of the full UX lifecycle, from discovery and research to iteration and final delivery. Explain your methodology and why you chose certain approaches.

• Tailor to VML: Emphasize your ecommerce and complex journey experience. Reference VML's client work or industry focus where relevant to show you've done your research.

• Clarity and Conciseness: Ensure your presentations are clear, well-organized, and easy to follow, respecting the interviewer's time.

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with common UX design challenges related to ecommerce, user flows, and information architecture.

• Practice articulating your thought process aloud, as if explaining it to a client or team.

• Prepare to discuss trade-offs between design ideals, technical feasibility, and business constraints.

• Review VML's work and recent industry trends in CX and digital commerce to inform your responses.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on the portfolio as evidence of capability. Applicants should prepare to defend their design choices and demonstrate how their UX expertise translates into tangible business outcomes for clients, especially in the competitive ecommerce space.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision (or similar industry-standard tools).

• User Research: UserTesting.com, Lookback, Maze, Hotjar, SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics (or equivalent platforms for qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis).

• Collaboration: Miro, Mural, Confluence, Jira (for team collaboration, ideation, and project management).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, Amplitude, Mixpanel (for understanding user behavior, tracking KPIs, and measuring performance).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary UX tool, familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms is beneficial for understanding the broader customer ecosystem.

• Experience with ecommerce platforms such as Shopify, BigCommerce, Magento, Salesforce Commerce Cloud, or Sitecore is highly advantageous given the role's focus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with contemporary UX design and research tools is non-negotiable. The mention of specific enterprise partners like Adobe, SAP, Salesforce, and Shopify suggests that experience with or understanding of these platforms will be a significant advantage for candidates.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Heart: Empathy and trust are paramount, fostering human-centric work and genuine connections within the team and with clients.

• Brains: Relentless curiosity, collaborative intelligence, and innovative thinking are valued to solve complex challenges effectively.

• Courage: Encouraging team members to speak up, experiment with bold ideas, and advocate for solutions that push boundaries and drive improvement.

• Impact-Driven: A strong focus on delivering measurable results and driving growth for clients through strategic and creative solutions.

• Collaboration: A culture that thrives on teamwork, knowledge sharing, and collective problem-solving to achieve shared goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect close collaboration with UI Designers, Service Designers, Developers, Project Managers, and Account Leads.

• Client Partnership: Working directly with clients, building strong relationships, and acting as a trusted advisor for UX/CX strategy.

• Feedback Culture: An environment that encourages open feedback, constructive criticism, and continuous learning to improve processes and outcomes.

• Agile & Iterative: A likely adoption of agile methodologies, promoting iterative design, frequent check-ins, and adaptability.

📝 Enhancement Note: VML's core values (Heart, Brains, Courage) are central to its culture. Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate how they embody these values in their work, particularly in how they approach collaboration, problem-solving, and client interactions within a UX/CX context.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Navigating competing priorities and requirements from various internal and external stakeholders to deliver optimal user experiences.

• Complex Ecommerce Environments: Designing for intricate user flows, diverse product catalogs, and sophisticated checkout processes in a competitive online retail landscape.

• Staying Ahead of Trends: Continuously adapting to rapidly evolving digital technologies, user behaviors, and UX best practices to maintain a competitive edge.

• Driving Adoption of New Designs: Effectively communicating and championing UX recommendations to secure buy-in and ensure successful implementation of new designs and strategies.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to training programs focused on advanced UX techniques, emerging technologies, and specific industry verticals (e.g., health, automotive, retail).

• Industry Exposure: Opportunities to attend conferences, workshops, and client-specific training sessions to broaden knowledge and network.

• Mentorship: Potential for mentorship from senior leaders within the UX/CX team and access to a global network for guidance.

• Career Pathing: Clear pathways for advancement into Lead UX/CX roles, management positions, or specialization in areas like service design or UX research leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in a fast-paced agency environment, requiring adaptability, strong communication, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. The growth opportunities underscore VML's commitment to employee development and career progression.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting stakeholder requirements for a complex ecommerce project. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on negotiation, prioritization, and communication skills.)

• "How do you typically approach the discovery phase for a new ecommerce platform or feature? What research methods do you prioritize and why?" (Demonstrate your understanding of user research and strategic planning.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do VML's core values (Heart, Brains, Courage) resonate with your personal work philosophy and experience?" (Prepare examples of how you embody these values.)

• "Given VML's focus on connected brands and customer experience, how do you see UX design contributing to overall business growth for our clients?" (Connect your UX expertise to business objectives.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Choose 3-4 of your most impactful projects, focusing on ecommerce or complex digital journeys. For each, present: Problem, Your Role, Process (Research, Ideation, Design, Testing), Solution, and Outcomes/Learnings.

• Metrics: Quantify success whenever possible. Use data to support your claims about the impact of your design work.

• Rationale: Be prepared to explain why you made specific design decisions, referencing user needs, business goals, and technical constraints.

• Engagement: Make it interactive. Ask clarifying questions, be open to feedback, and demonstrate your passion for UX.

Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate a design challenge that requires you to quickly analyze a problem, ideate solutions, and articulate a design approach, likely within an ecommerce context.

• Practice sketching and wireframing concepts rapidly.

• Be ready to discuss your assumptions, trade-offs, and next steps in a concise manner.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of UX principles applied to business objectives, particularly in ecommerce. The ability to articulate process, justify decisions, and showcase measurable impact will be critical for success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the VML careers portal linked on the job posting.

• Customize your resume: Highlight your significant agency experience, ecommerce expertise, and full UX process ownership. Use keywords from the job description such as "UX Design," "Ecommerce," "User Research," "Design Thinking," and "Portfolio."

• Curate your portfolio: Ensure it prominently features your strongest ecommerce or complex journey projects. Be ready to present a selection that clearly demonstrates your problem-solving process and impact. Prepare concise case studies for each project.

• Prepare for the interview: Research VML's recent work, especially within their Enterprise Solutions division, and understand their core values. Practice articulating your design rationale and how your experience aligns with the role's requirements.

• Connect your experience: Be ready to discuss how your UX skills directly contribute to driving customer engagement, conversion, and business growth for clients, aligning with VML's mission.

⚠️ 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.

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