Senior UX Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Designer

Company: VML

Location: Porto, Porto, Portugal

Job Type: Full-time

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

Date Posted: April 27, 2026

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

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end User Experience (UX) design process for complex e-commerce and digital platforms.

• Drive customer-centric solutions by integrating user research, design thinking, and business requirements.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including UX, UI, Service Design, Optimization, and Consulting Leads.

• Develop and present high-quality design artifacts, from discovery workshops to interactive prototypes.

• Provide UX leadership and strategic guidance to clients and internal stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within VML's rapidly expanding CX team, indicating a strong focus on holistic customer journeys and integrated digital experiences. The emphasis on e-commerce and complex journeys suggests a need for designers who can navigate intricate user flows and business objectives within a digital commerce context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design and facilitate product definition and UX requirements workshops to gather and align stakeholder needs.

• Scope, manage, and analyze qualitative and quantitative research to uncover user insights and behavioral patterns.

• Apply design thinking methodologies to identify opportunities for new experiences, propositions, products, and services.

• Create comprehensive design artifacts, including personas, journey maps, storyboards, process flows, information architecture diagrams, wireframes, and prototypes.

• Communicate, defend, and build consensus around product strategy and design approaches with various stakeholders.

• Collaborate with Account Leads, Head of UX, Head of CX, and clients to provide UX leadership and ensure business drivers are met.

• Work closely with fellow designers, program managers, and developers to enhance design quality and user experience.

• Present and articulate design ideas and rationale effectively to both working groups and C-suite executives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on role requiring not just design execution but also strategic input, client interaction, and team leadership. The mention of "leading and crafting UX project deliverables" implies a need for demonstrable project ownership and the ability to guide junior team members.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While specific educational requirements are not detailed, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design (e.g., Interaction Design, Graphic Design, HCI), Psychology, or a related field is typically expected for a Senior UX Designer role.

Experience: Significant proven experience, ideally within a digital agency setting, with a strong focus on e-commerce or complex user journeys.

Required Skills:

• Significant proven agency experience in UX design.

• Compelling portfolio showcasing high-quality, best-in-class UX design for complex projects.

• Extensive experience in e-commerce or complex digital journeys.

• Proficiency in the full UX process, including discovery phases (internal/external, qualitative/quantitative research).

• Expertise in solving complex problems using design thinking methods and techniques.

• Solid information, interaction, and experience design skills.

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

• Excellent client communication and presentation skills.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with UI Design and Service Design principles.

• Familiarity with optimization and consulting within a CX framework.

• Knowledge of specific enterprise solutions and platforms (e.g., Adobe, SAP, Salesforce, Shopify, Sitecore).

• Experience in D2C, B2B, or marketplace environments.

• Familiarity with VML's client partners and their respective industries.

• Understanding of UX metrics and analytics for performance measurement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "compelling portfolio" and "significant proven experience" suggests that practical application and demonstrable results will be a primary evaluation criterion. The candidate must showcase a breadth of experience in handling complex digital challenges.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong command of the full UX lifecycle, from initial research and strategy to final design and iteration.

• Showcase case studies that highlight problem definition, research methodologies, design process, and measurable outcomes.

• Include examples of complex e-commerce journeys, demonstrating an understanding of conversion optimization and user flow efficiency.

• Present wireframes, interactive prototypes, and final UI designs that reflect best-in-class UX/UI principles.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of leading and conducting user research (qualitative and quantitative) and usability testing.

• Examples of creating detailed design artifacts such as personas, journey maps, information architecture diagrams, and user flows.

• Documentation of how design thinking principles were applied to solve business and user problems.

• Demonstrations of collaboration with development teams and stakeholders to ensure successful implementation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is crucial for this role. It should not only display visual design skills but also a deep understanding of the UX process, strategic thinking, research capabilities, and the ability to drive business results through user-centered design in complex e-commerce environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the Senior UX Designer title, experience level (5-10 years), and location in Porto, Portugal, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between €45,000 - €65,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Porto, industry benchmarks for senior design roles in Western Europe, and VML's position as a global agency within WPP.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive training opportunities for continuous skill development.

• Medical insurance coverage.

• Dental insurance coverage.

• Meal cards provided.

• Opportunities for social events and team building.

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

• Discounts with hundreds of retailers.

• Mentorship and professional growth programs.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are likely around 40 hours per week. The role is described as hybrid, with teams expected in the office an average of four days a week, offering some flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry data for senior UX professionals in major European cities, adjusted for local market conditions in Porto. The benefits package is detailed in the job description, emphasizing professional development and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Marketing & Advertising, Digital Services, Technology Consulting. VML operates at the intersection of creativity, technology, and commerce, serving a wide range of blue-chip clients.

Company Size: VML is a large global organization, part of WPP, employing over 26,000 people across 55+ markets. This scale provides opportunities for diverse project work and international collaboration.

Founded: VML was formed through the merger of VML and Wunderman Thompson, creating a powerhouse in the industry. Its history is rooted in digital innovation and client service.

Team Structure:

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

• This structure suggests a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment focused on delivering end-to-end customer experiences.

Methodology:

• VML emphasizes a human-first, creative approach, leveraging data and technology to drive growth for clients.

• The company's focus on "connected brands" implies an integrated approach to brand experience, customer experience, and commerce.

• Their Enterprise Solutions division specifically houses experts in strategic consulting, creative and technical architecture, and development, working across major routes to market (marketplaces, online retailers, D2C, B2B, social platforms).

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

📝 Enhancement Note: VML's culture is defined by its core values: Heart, Brains, and Courage. This suggests an environment that values empathy, intellectual curiosity, and bold problem-solving. The company's scale and diverse client roster offer significant opportunities for exposure to various industries and complex challenges.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a Senior UX Designer role, indicating a mid-to-senior level position with significant responsibility for project execution and strategic input. It requires independent work, leadership in design thinking, and the ability to mentor or guide less experienced designers.

Reporting Structure: The Senior UX Designer will report to the Lead UX, indicating a clear hierarchy within the UX discipline. They will also collaborate closely with other Leads (UI, Service Design, Optimization, Consulting) and Account Leads, suggesting a matrixed reporting or strong cross-functional collaboration model.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts client success by designing user experiences that drive engagement, conversion, and loyalty. This involves translating business objectives into user-centered solutions that deliver measurable growth for VML's clients, which include major global brands like The Coca-Cola Company, Ford, and Nestlé.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in e-commerce UX, complex journey design, and advanced research methodologies. Potential to specialize in areas like conversion rate optimization (CRO) or service design.

• Leadership Development: Potential to move into Lead UX roles, manage larger projects, or mentor junior designers. Exposure to client leadership and strategic consulting within the CX domain.

• Industry Exposure: Working with a diverse portfolio of high-profile clients across various sectors, offering broad industry experience and portfolio diversification.

• Global Network: Access to VML's global network, potentially leading to international project opportunities or collaborations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior UX Designer role offers a clear path for career progression within VML's CX and Enterprise Solutions divisions. The emphasis on client leadership and cross-functional collaboration provides valuable experience for future leadership opportunities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: VML operates a hybrid work model, with teams expected in the office an average of four days a week. This model aims to balance collaboration and connection with flexibility.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Porto, Portugal. VML has a global network of offices, indicating a dynamic and international work environment.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office environment is designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and connection, with teams working together on client projects.

• Tooling: While not explicitly stated, a global agency like VML would typically provide access to industry-standard design and collaboration tools.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model encourages regular face-to-face interaction with colleagues, fostering a strong team dynamic and shared problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with a standard 40-hour work week. The hybrid arrangement allows for some flexibility in structuring the work week, with an expectation of in-office presence for key collaborative activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model reflects a modern approach to work, balancing the benefits of in-person collaboration with the flexibility desired by many professionals. Candidates should be comfortable with a structured hybrid schedule.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review, focusing on resume and portfolio alignment with requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, detailing their UX process, problem-solving approach, and impact on past projects, particularly e-commerce examples.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a practical design exercise or case study, either live or take-home, to evaluate design thinking, problem-solving, and execution skills.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Interviews with the Lead UX, other design leads, and potentially client-facing team members to assess collaborative abilities, communication skills, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Likely with senior leadership to discuss strategic fit and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 strong case studies that best represent your experience in e-commerce, complex journeys, and the full UX process.

• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed, the challenges you faced, your solutions, and the measurable outcomes.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your research methodologies, design thinking applications, and how you translated insights into design decisions.

• Showcase Deliverables: Include examples of personas, journey maps, wireframes, and prototypes, explaining the rationale behind them.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., conversion rate improvements, user satisfaction scores).

• Prepare for Presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio confidently, articulate your design rationale, and answer in-depth questions about your decisions and process.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Brief: If given a design challenge, thoroughly analyze the user needs, business goals, and constraints.

• Embrace Design Thinking: Structure your approach around identifying the problem, empathizing with users, ideating solutions, prototyping, and testing.

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate your thought process, even if you can't complete a full design. Demonstrate how you would tackle the problem.

• Communicate Effectively: Practice presenting your ideas clearly and concisely, justifying your choices and anticipating potential questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process heavily relies on the portfolio. Candidates must be prepared to thoroughly explain their design decisions and demonstrate their strategic thinking and problem-solving skills through their work.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD, InVision, Axure RP. Proficiency in at least one major design tool is essential.

• Research & Analysis: Tools for user interviews, surveys, usability testing platforms (e.g., UserTesting.com), analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics).

• Collaboration & Project Management: Jira, Confluence, Asana, Trello, Slack, Microsoft Teams.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Google Analytics

• Adobe Analytics

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a UX tool, familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms can be beneficial for understanding client ecosystems and data integration.

• Experience with enterprise solutions and platforms such as Adobe, SAP, Salesforce, Shopify, Sitecore, BigCommerce, Commerce Tools, and Acquia is highly valued.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job description doesn't list specific tools, a Senior UX Designer at a global agency like VML would be expected to be proficient in industry-standard design and prototyping software (Figma, Sketch, Adobe XD) and familiar with a range of research, analytics, and collaboration tools. Expertise in e-commerce platforms is a significant plus.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Heart: Fostering empathy and trust, leading to genuine connections and human-centric work. This means understanding user needs deeply and collaborating respectfully.

• Brains: Valuing relentless curiosity and collaborative intelligence to solve complex challenges. This involves continuous learning, critical thinking, and leveraging collective knowledge.

• Courage: Inspiring individuals to speak up, embrace experimentation, and advocate for bold solutions. This encourages innovation, constructive feedback, and pushing creative boundaries.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The team structure emphasizes close collaboration between UX, UI, Service Design, Optimization, and Consulting. Expect to work closely with strategists, developers, and account managers.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong focus on understanding client business drivers and translating them into user-centered solutions that deliver impact.

• Data-Informed Design: While creativity is key, decisions are expected to be informed by research, data, and user insights, promoting a culture of evidence-based design.

📝 Enhancement Note: VML's core values of Heart, Brains, and Courage are central to their culture. Candidates who demonstrate empathy, intellectual curiosity, a willingness to experiment, and the ability to advocate for user needs will likely thrive in this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Navigating competing demands from clients, internal teams, and end-users to deliver cohesive and effective solutions.

• Complexity of E-commerce: Designing for intricate user journeys, diverse customer segments, and demanding technical constraints within the e-commerce landscape.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Staying abreast of emerging UX trends, design tools, and platform capabilities to ensure VML's solutions remain cutting-edge.

• Driving Innovation: Encouraging adoption of new design approaches and technologies within a large agency structure and across diverse client projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Training: Access to VML's training programs to enhance skills in areas like advanced UX research, service design, accessibility, or specific e-commerce platform expertise.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Leads and senior designers within the global VML network.

• Industry Exposure: Continuous exposure to leading brands and complex digital challenges that foster professional growth.

• Conferences & Certifications: Potential support for attending industry conferences or obtaining relevant certifications to further professional development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges within a supportive, growth-oriented environment. The agency setting provides a unique platform for continuous learning and skill diversification.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to balance conflicting client requirements with user needs. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your process for negotiation, user advocacy, and finding collaborative solutions).

• "Walk us through your process for designing a complex e-commerce checkout flow. What were the key considerations, and how did you ensure a seamless user experience?" (Highlight your understanding of conversion optimization, user flows, and error handling).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about VML and our work with clients like [mention a specific client from their portfolio]?" (Research VML's recent work and client success stories. Connect your skills and aspirations to their offerings).

• "How do you embody VML's core values of Heart, Brains, and Courage in your design practice?" (Consider how your empathy, problem-solving approach, and willingness to propose bold ideas align with these values).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure is Key: Organize your presentation logically, typically following a case study format: Problem -> Your Role -> Process -> Solution -> Outcome/Impact.

• Focus on "Why": For each design decision, explain the rationale behind it. Why did you choose this approach? What user need or business goal does it address?

• Show, Don't Just Tell: Use visuals effectively. Show wireframes, prototypes, and final designs. Explain how your work solved the problem.

• Quantify Success: Whenever possible, use metrics (e.g., conversion rates, engagement, satisfaction scores) to demonstrate the impact of your work.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your process, tools, and decision-making. Be honest about challenges and what you learned.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design skills but also strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, strong communication, and cultural alignment with VML's values. The portfolio presentation is a critical component.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Designer position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight your most relevant e-commerce and complex journey design projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your UX process, research capabilities, and measurable outcomes.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to prominently feature keywords from the job description (e.g., UX Design, E-commerce, Design Thinking, User Research, Wireframing, Prototyping, Stakeholder Management) and quantify your achievements with specific results.

• Interview Preparation: Thoroughly research VML, its client work, and its core values. Prepare to articulate your design process, present your portfolio effectively, and answer strategy and behavioral questions.

• Company Research: Understand VML's position in the market, its approach to CX, and its client portfolio to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment during the interview process.

⚠️ 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.