Senior UX Designer – Senior Vice President

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior UX Designer – Senior Vice President

Company: Citi

Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time

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

Date Posted: May 01, 2026

Experience Level: Senior / 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid (Up to 2 days per week working from home)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design process for complex, enterprise-scale digital products within the global finance sector, ensuring best-in-class user experience and usability.

• Drive UX research initiatives, define information architecture, map user journeys, and develop personas to deeply understand and anticipate client needs.

• Collaborate closely with Product and Technology teams to co-create intuitive, consistent, and accessible digital solutions that align with business objectives.

• Contribute to and evangelize the firm's design system, ensuring adherence to established standards and promoting best practices across the UX community of practice.

• Provide thought leadership and mentorship to junior designers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and adherence to accessibility (ADA/WCAG) standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior UX Designer," the "Senior Vice President" designation and the emphasis on leading complex, enterprise-scale projects, providing thought leadership, and mentoring junior team members indicate a highly senior and influential role. This role requires not just design execution but also strategic influence and team development within a large financial institution. The hybrid model suggests a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead discovery sessions with users, clients, product sponsors, and technology stakeholders to thoroughly understand project requirements and business objectives.

• Plan, execute, and analyze diverse UX research methodologies, including user interviews, usability testing, and surveys, to inform design decisions.

• Define and document Information Architecture (IA), user flows, user journeys, and create detailed personas to represent target user groups.

• Collaborate with product managers, business analysts, and development teams to translate research insights and business requirements into innovative and user-centered design solutions.

• Create detailed wireframes, interactive prototypes, and high-fidelity visual designs using industry-standard tools such as Sketch, Figma, Adobe XD, Axure, and InVision.

• Actively contribute to and leverage the firm's approved design system, ensuring consistency, scalability, and efficiency in design outputs.

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with development teams, ensuring clear and comprehensive design handovers and providing ongoing support during implementation.

• Conduct regular UX review checkpoints during the development phase to ensure design integrity and adherence to specifications.

• Proactively identify opportunities to enhance UX research and design practices, staying abreast of the latest industry trends, standards, tools, and accessibility guidelines (ADA/WCAG).

• Champion the value of UX within Citi, evangelizing best practices and influencing stakeholders across the organization to foster a user-centric mindset.

• Mentor and coach junior UX designers, providing guidance, constructive feedback, and support for their professional development.

• Facilitate consensus-building and conflict resolution among stakeholders and team members regarding technical and design decisions.

• Ensure all digital products and interfaces comply with current ADA/WCAG standards for accessibility, promoting inclusivity for all users.

• Manage project timelines effectively, identifying and mitigating risks, and escalating issues as needed to ensure on-time delivery.

• Contribute to the firm's risk management framework by demonstrating sound ethical judgment, adhering to policies, and escalating control issues transparently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a senior-level role focused on strategic design leadership, research, execution, and team development. The emphasis on ADA/WCAG compliance, design systems, and stakeholder management is critical for a Senior Vice President level within a global financial institution.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s or University degree required.

• Master’s degree preferred.

Experience:

• Significant relevant experience in UX design, with a strong emphasis on complex, enterprise-scale digital projects.

• Proven track record of leading design initiatives from concept to implementation within a large, corporate environment.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in UX research methodologies, including user interviews, usability testing, persona development, and journey mapping.

• Advanced skills in wireframing, prototyping, and creating high-fidelity designs using tools such as Sketch, Figma, Adobe XD, Axure, and InVision.

• Extensive experience in defining, applying, and contributing to design systems.

• Deep understanding of accessibility standards, including ADA and WCAG (latest versions), and the ability to integrate them into design processes.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret data and user feedback for informed design decisions.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex design concepts clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences.

• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience in stakeholder management and building consensus among cross-functional teams.

Preferred Skills:

• Knowledge of HTML/CSS development principles to better collaborate with engineering teams.

• Experience in software development lifecycle or program management.

• Familiarity with banking or finance industry specific UX challenges and opportunities.

• Active participation in external UX groups or communities, demonstrating a commitment to the broader design field.

• Experience with A/B testing and data analysis for design optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize extensive practical experience over academic credentials, with a strong focus on core UX competencies, design system proficiency, accessibility, and leadership skills. The preference for a Master's degree and formal UX qualification highlights the need for specialized, advanced knowledge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 significant, enterprise-scale digital design projects, preferably within the financial services sector.

• Projects should clearly demonstrate a deep understanding of the entire UX process, from initial research and ideation through to detailed design and implementation support.

• Evidence of strategic thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to translate complex business requirements into intuitive user experiences.

• Showcase experience with design systems, including contributions to their development or application in a consistent manner.

Process Documentation:

• For each project showcased, clearly articulate the specific UX methodologies employed and the rationale behind their selection.

• Detail how user feedback and data were integrated into the design process to inform iterations and improvements.

• Provide examples of collaboration with product managers, developers, and other stakeholders, highlighting communication strategies and problem-solving approaches.

• Demonstrate how accessibility standards (ADA/WCAG) were considered and implemented throughout the design lifecycle.

• Show how you contributed to or leveraged design systems to ensure consistency and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior VP level role, the portfolio should not just display execution but also strategic impact and process ownership. Candidates are expected to demonstrate their ability to lead complex design initiatives, mentor others, and contribute to the evolution of design practices within a large organization.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• 27 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)

• A discretionary annual performance-related bonus

• Private Medical Care & Life Insurance

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

• Pension Plan

• Paid Parental Leave

• Special discounts for employees, family, and friends

Working Hours:

• Full-time position. Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through a hybrid working model (up to 2 days working from home per week).

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on current market data for senior UX roles in major UK financial hubs, adjusted for Belfast's cost of living and the seniority associated with a Senior Vice President title. Citi's comprehensive benefits package is detailed, emphasizing work-life balance and professional development.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services / Global Banking Technology

Company Size: Large (Over 10,000 employees globally)

Founded: 1812 (as City Bank of New York)

Company Description: Citi is a leading global financial services company, providing consumers, corporations, governments, and institutions with a broad range of financial products and services, including consumer banking and credit, corporate and investment banking, securities brokerage, trade finance, and insurance. Citi Tech is at the forefront of innovation, building and maintaining the systems that power global finance.

Team Structure:

• The UX Design Group operates within the broader Technology organization, likely structured with specialized teams focusing on different product areas or customer segments.

• This role is at a Senior Vice President level, indicating a leadership position with potential to manage or significantly influence a team of UX designers.

Methodology:

• Citi's approach to digital product development is likely a blend of agile methodologies, emphasizing iterative design, continuous feedback, and rapid deployment.

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, with a strong focus on metrics, user analytics, and A/B testing to validate design choices and measure impact.

• Emphasis on robust design systems ensures consistency, scalability, and efficiency across a vast portfolio of digital products.

• Adherence to strict regulatory compliance and security standards is a foundational element of all technology and design processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Citi's long history and global scale mean that operations and technology roles are deeply integrated into a complex, regulated environment. The culture values innovation within established frameworks, robust risk management, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The UX team plays a critical role in balancing user needs with business objectives and regulatory requirements.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Vice President (SVP) - This signifies a high level of seniority, responsibility, and influence within the organization. It implies leadership, strategic contribution, and significant impact on business outcomes. For UX, this means leading design strategy, mentoring teams, and influencing product direction at a senior level.

Reporting Structure:

• The role reports into a Director or higher-level executive within the UX Design Group or Digital Product organization.

• This position will likely have direct reports (junior UX designers) or significant influence over project teams.

Operations Impact:

• By leading the design of critical digital products, this role has a direct impact on customer acquisition, retention, satisfaction, and operational efficiency.

• Strategic UX design directly influences revenue generation, cost reduction through improved usability, and the overall brand perception of Citi's digital offerings.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into Director or further SVP roles, managing larger teams or broader design portfolios.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like financial UX, accessibility leadership, or design system strategy.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Opportunities to move into Product Management, Program Management, or strategic initiatives within the broader Technology or Digital divisions.

• Continuous Learning: Access to Citi's extensive learning resources, industry conferences, and internal workshops to stay at the forefront of UX and financial technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The SVP title suggests a career trajectory that emphasizes leadership and strategic impact. Growth opportunities at this level are typically focused on expanding scope of responsibility, developing leadership capabilities, and contributing to organizational strategy rather than entry-level skill acquisition.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Modern, professional corporate office environment with a hybrid working model.

Office Location(s): Belfast, Northern Ireland (Titanic Quarter). This location suggests a significant operational hub for Citi in the UK.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed for collaboration, with meeting rooms, common areas, and potentially open-plan desk spaces.

• Access to state-of-the-art design tools, software, and technology infrastructure is expected.

• The hybrid model allows for focused work at home and collaborative sessions in the office, fostering a balanced work environment.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• The hybrid model allows for flexibility in structuring the work week, with up to two days per week permitted for remote work. This requires effective time management and self-discipline to maintain productivity and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Belfast office is a key location for Citi, suggesting a well-established and resourced operational base. The hybrid model is a standard offering for many corporate roles, aiming to balance employee well-being with business needs for in-person collaboration and team cohesion.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will review your application and resume, focusing on key qualifications and experience.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview (Round 1): You will likely be asked to present your portfolio, walking through 2-3 key projects. This will be followed by questions about your design process, problem-solving approach, and experience with complex projects. Expect questions on collaboration and leadership.

• Technical/Skills Interview (Round 2): This may involve a deeper dive into specific design tools, accessibility standards, or a hypothetical design challenge. Questions will assess your technical proficiency and ability to apply UX principles.

• Stakeholder/Leadership Interviews (Round 3): Interviews with senior leaders from Product, Technology, and potentially other departments to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and leadership potential. You may be asked how you would handle specific challenging scenarios.

• Final Round: Potentially an interview with a very senior executive for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your experience with enterprise-scale challenges, financial services (if applicable), and your leadership capabilities.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process (research, ideation, design, testing), the solutions, and the measurable outcomes or impact. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your decision-making process, how you handled constraints, and how you collaborated with diverse teams. Showcase your understanding of design systems and accessibility.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., improved conversion rates, reduced task completion time, increased user satisfaction scores).

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to discuss your design philosophy, how you mentor others, handle conflict, and evangelize UX within an organization.

Challenge Preparation:

• Understand the Context: If given a design challenge, ensure you fully understand the business goals and user needs. Ask clarifying questions.

• Structure Your Approach: Outline your process logically, even if you don't have time to complete every step. Focus on your thought process.

• Focus on Key Deliverables: Prioritize the most critical elements of the challenge, such as user flows, wireframes, or key UI components.

• Communicate Clearly: Explain your assumptions, decisions, and rationale throughout the process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for an SVP-level role is rigorous and designed to assess not only technical skills but also strategic thinking, leadership potential, and cultural alignment. A well-prepared portfolio and thoughtful responses to behavioral and situational questions are crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Design & Prototyping: Sketch, Figma, Adobe XD, Axure, InVision are explicitly mentioned. Proficiency in at least one or two of these is critical, with Figma gaining significant traction.

• Design Systems: Experience with creating, contributing to, or managing design systems is essential. This involves understanding components, patterns, and guidelines.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Jira, Confluence, Slack, Microsoft Teams are likely used for day-to-day project management and communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics: Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics, or similar platforms for tracking user behavior on digital products.

• User Research Tools: Tools for remote usability testing (e.g., UserTesting.com), session recording (e.g., Hotjar), and survey creation (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Qualtrics).

• Data Visualization: Tableau, Power BI, or internal Citi tools for reporting on key UX metrics and performance indicators.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a UX tool, understanding how UX design integrates with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms can be beneficial for understanding the broader customer journey.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific mention of design tools like Sketch, Figma, Axure, and InVision indicates the core technical requirements. A Senior VP candidate is expected to be proficient across a range of design and collaboration tools and understand how to leverage data and analytics to inform and measure design impact.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of Citi’s diverse client base through intuitive and effective design.

• Innovation within Structure: Encouraging creative solutions while operating within a highly regulated financial services environment, prioritizing security, compliance, and scalability.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Fostering strong working relationships with Product, Technology, and Business teams to achieve shared goals.

• Excellence & Quality: Maintaining high standards in design execution, usability, and accessibility, with a focus on continuous improvement.

• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding Citi’s commitment to ethical conduct, risk management, and responsible business practices in all design decisions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with Product Managers to align on strategy and requirements, and with Engineers to ensure feasible and high-quality implementation.

• Constructive Feedback Culture: Openly sharing and receiving feedback to elevate the quality of design work and foster team growth.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in design reviews, internal forums, and sharing best practices to uplift the entire UX community.

• Problem-Solving Focus: A collaborative approach to tackling complex challenges, seeking consensus and finding pragmatic solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Citi's culture, as a major global financial institution, will emphasize professionalism, adherence to standards, and a strong sense of responsibility. For a UX leader, this translates to balancing user advocacy with business needs and regulatory requirements, while fostering a collaborative and high-performing design team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating a Large, Complex Organization: Understanding and influencing decision-making processes across multiple departments and geographies within a global bank.

• Balancing User Needs with Business/Regulatory Constraints: Designing innovative solutions that meet user expectations while strictly adhering to financial regulations, security protocols, and enterprise standards.

• Driving Adoption of UX Best Practices: Evangelizing the value of user-centered design and influencing stakeholders who may not fully grasp or prioritize UX principles.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Reconciling differing opinions and priorities from various business units, product teams, and technology partners.

• Keeping Pace with Technological Evolution: Integrating emerging technologies and design trends into established financial systems while maintaining stability and compliance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development Programs: Opportunities to hone management and strategic leadership skills through Citi’s internal programs.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending relevant UX, finance, and technology conferences, and obtaining advanced certifications.

• Mentorship: Access to senior leaders within Citi for guidance and career development, and the opportunity to mentor junior designers.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Opportunities to learn about different areas of the financial services industry and technology stack.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior roles in large, regulated industries. Growth opportunities are geared towards expanding leadership scope, strategic influence, and continuous professional development at an advanced level.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to influence a group of stakeholders with conflicting priorities on a design project. How did you achieve consensus?" (Focus on your negotiation, communication, and problem-solving skills.)

• "How would you approach designing a new feature for a mobile banking app that needs to be both highly secure and incredibly user-friendly? What are the key trade-offs?" (Demonstrate understanding of UX principles in a regulated context, balancing usability with security.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Citi's digital strategy and how do you see UX contributing to its success?" (Research Citi's recent digital initiatives, investor relations reports, and tech blogs.)

• "How would you foster a culture of UX excellence within a large, established financial institution?" (Discuss your approach to evangelism, training, and integrating UX into the broader organization.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prioritize Impact: Focus on projects that demonstrate significant business impact, strategic thinking, and leadership.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process, the solution, and the measurable outcomes.

• Highlight Process & Rationale: Explain why you made certain design decisions, referencing research, user feedback, and business goals.

• Showcase Collaboration: Demonstrate how you worked with product managers, engineers, and other stakeholders.

• Address Design Systems & Accessibility: Clearly articulate your experience and approach to both.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your specific contributions, challenges, and solutions within each project.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, leadership, and a deep understanding of UX principles within the context of financial services and a large corporate environment. Quantifiable results and strong communication are key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior UX Designer – Senior Vice President position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link, ensuring all fields are accurately completed.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight significant experience in enterprise-scale design projects, leadership, mentoring, and proficiency with the specified design tools. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a presentation-ready portfolio that showcases your best work, focusing on projects demonstrating strategic impact, complex problem-solving, and collaboration. Ensure it clearly outlines your process, role, and outcomes.

• Research Citi: Understand Citi’s mission, values, recent digital initiatives, and the competitive landscape of financial technology. Familiarize yourself with their approach to UX and customer experience.

• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Anticipate questions about leadership, conflict resolution, stakeholder management, and how you evangelize UX principles. Practice articulating your thought process and providing specific examples.

⚠️ 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.