UX Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: UX Designer

Company: M&G plc

Location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom / Stirling, United Kingdom

Job Type: Full-time (Contractor - 12 Month Fixed Term)

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

Date Posted: 2026-05-13

Experience Level: Experienced Colleague (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: Hybrid (2-3 days in office)

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design of high-quality user experiences across M&G plc's digital marketing estate, focusing on customer and adviser journeys.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design, implement, and optimize digital solutions that drive engagement and satisfaction.

• Contribute to the standardization and evolution of UX standards, guidelines, and design patterns to ensure consistency and scalability.

• Translate complex business propositions, customer needs, and technical constraints into elegant, intuitive, and user-centered digital experiences.

• Utilize customer insight, research findings, and analytics to validate design decisions and continuously refine page-level solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically a 12-month fixed-term contract, which is crucial for candidates to understand regarding job security and project scope. The emphasis on "digital marketing estate" suggests a focus on customer acquisition and engagement touchpoints rather than internal tools or core product development, though the latter may be indirectly influenced.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the creation of detailed page-level UX designs, including wireframes, site maps, user flows, and interaction patterns, to support new and evolving business propositions.

• Apply established user-centered design principles, accessibility standards (WCAG), and interaction design best practices to all digital outputs.

• Actively contribute to the development, maintenance, and socialisation of UX standards, guidelines, and a comprehensive design pattern library.

• Participate in design reviews, clearly articulating design rationale grounded in UX principles, customer insight, user research, and relevant data analytics.

• Produce essential UX artifacts such as annotated wireframes, interactive prototypes, and detailed documentation to facilitate seamless collaboration with delivery, content authoring, and development teams.

• Support discovery and co-creation workshops by actively gathering and synthesizing inputs that define page structure, content hierarchy, and user needs.

• Ensure all designs are aligned with existing design system components, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement and enhancement of the system.

• Leverage customer insights, qualitative research findings, and quantitative analytics data to validate design hypotheses and iteratively refine page-level solutions for optimal performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on both design execution (wireframing, prototyping) and strategic contribution (standardization, research validation). The role requires the candidate to be proficient in creating tangible UX deliverables while also influencing broader design practices within the organization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of UX principles is paramount. Formal education in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Design, Psychology, or a related field is beneficial but not strictly required if experience and portfolio are exceptional.

Experience: Several years of demonstrable experience in a dedicated UX/UI or digital product design role, with a significant focus on web-based design and digital marketing platforms. Experience within the financial services sector (asset management, insurance) is highly advantageous due to the industry context.

Required Skills:

• Proven proficiency in UX design using industry-standard tools such as Figma for wireframing, prototyping, and collaborative design.

• Demonstrated experience with collaborative tools like MIRO for brainstorming, user journey mapping, and workshop facilitation.

• Solid understanding and practical application of user-centered design (UCD) principles, web accessibility standards (e.g., WCAG 2.1 AA), and interaction design patterns.

• Experience contributing to or actively maintaining design systems, style guides, or component pattern libraries.

• Ability to effectively synthesize complex business propositions, diverse customer needs, and technical constraints into elegant, usable, and user-friendly page experiences.

• Experience in writing or interpreting user research briefs, and practical exposure to conducting or observing user testing and validation sessions.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with A/B testing and conversion rate optimization (CRO) methodologies to inform design iterations.

• Familiarity with agile development methodologies and experience working within cross-functional agile teams.

• Basic understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to better inform design feasibility and collaboration with developers.

• Experience in data analysis and visualization tools to interpret user analytics and performance metrics.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for "several years" of experience, coupled with the "Experienced Colleague" work level, suggests a need for candidates who can operate with a high degree of autonomy and strategic input, not just execution. The emphasis on Figma and Miro points to specific tool proficiency requirements.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 distinct UX design projects, with a clear emphasis on web-based interfaces and customer-facing digital experiences.

• Each project within the portfolio should detail the design process, including problem definition, user research insights, ideation, wireframing, prototyping, and final design outputs.

• Specific examples demonstrating the application of user-centered design principles, accessibility considerations, and interaction design patterns.

• Evidence of collaboration with development and content teams, and how design decisions were informed by user data, analytics, or customer feedback.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be prepared to discuss their personal UX design process, including how they approach problem definition, user research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and iteration.

• Articulate how they ensure designs meet accessibility standards and contribute to the overall customer journey.

• Demonstrate understanding of how to document UX decisions and hand off designs effectively to development teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a UX role, the portfolio is the most critical component. The expectation is not just finished designs, but a clear demonstration of the thought process, problem-solving abilities, and user-centric methodology employed. Emphasis on web design and digital marketing platforms is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: For a UX Designer with several years of experience in Edinburgh/Stirling, a competitive salary range is estimated between £50,000 - £70,000 per annum. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for experienced UX professionals in the UK, considering the cost of living in Scotland and the specific sector (financial services). The exact figure will depend on the candidate's specific experience, skill set, and the duration of the fixed-term contract.

Benefits:

• Pension Scheme: Generous 18% total contribution (13% Employer, 5% Employee).

• Share Save & Share Incentive Plan: Opportunities for employee ownership and investment.

• Financial Wellbeing Support: Access to services for financial guidance.

• Annual Leave: 38 days per year (including bank holidays), with the option to purchase up to 5 additional days.

• Time Off When You Need It Policy: Flexible approach to time off.

• Inspiring Families Policy: Market-leading paid parental leave for maternity, adoption, surrogacy, and paternity.

• Health & Protection Cover: Private Healthcare, Critical Illness Cover, and Life Assurance, with options for family coverage.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered. The hybrid model requires 2-3 days per week in the office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation for a fixed-term contract role of this nature in the specified UK locations. The detailed benefits package is a significant draw for this role and should be highlighted.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services (Savings & Investments, Asset Management, Insurance). M&G plc has a heritage of over 175 years, positioning itself as a stable yet innovative player in the market. The company's purpose is to "give everyone real confidence to put their money to work."

Company Size: M&G plc is a large, established financial institution. While the exact number of employees isn't provided, its FTSE 100 listing suggests a significant global workforce. This size implies established processes, dedicated departments, and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: M&G's heritage dates back over 175 years, indicating a long-standing presence and deep industry expertise. This history suggests a culture that values tradition, stability, and long-term vision, while also striving for innovation.

Team Structure:

• The UX Designer will be part of the "experience management team" and report to the "Senior Digital Experience Manager."

• This team likely comprises other UX/UI designers, digital product managers, and potentially content strategists, working collaboratively.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using customer insight, research findings, and analytics to inform and validate design decisions.

• User-Centred Approach: Core to the role is designing with the customer (and adviser) at the forefront, ensuring usability, clarity, and satisfaction.

• Standardization & Scalability: A focus on evolving and maintaining UX standards, guidelines, and design systems to ensure consistency and efficient implementation across digital touchpoints.

• Collaborative Workflows: Encouragement of co-creation sessions and cross-functional teamwork.

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

Careers Page: https://www.mandg.com/careers/life-at-mandg

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's strong heritage and purpose provide a backdrop for its culture and strategic direction. The emphasis on "telling it like it is, owning it now, and moving it forward together with care and integrity" suggests a culture that values transparency, accountability, collaboration, and ethical conduct.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This UX Designer role is positioned at an "Experienced Colleague" level, indicating a mid-to-senior level of experience. The role is expected to lead design efforts for specific propositions, contribute to strategic design standards, and mentor or guide less experienced team members implicitly through their work and expertise.

Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Senior Digital Experience Manager, suggesting a clear line of management and a direct path for feedback and strategic alignment within the digital experience team.

Operations Impact: The UX Designer's impact is directly tied to enhancing customer and adviser satisfaction, driving engagement with digital marketing assets, and ultimately supporting the company's purpose of giving customers confidence in their money. Effective UX design can lead to higher conversion rates, improved customer retention, and a stronger brand perception.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific UX areas like accessibility, interaction design, or design system management.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Working with various departments (marketing, product, IT) provides a broad understanding of business operations and digital strategy.

• Contribution to Standards: Influencing and contributing to the company's UX standards and design system offers significant visibility and impact.

• Potential for Future Roles: While this is a fixed-term contract, successful performance could lead to opportunities for extension or permanent positions within M&G or its associated companies, or provide valuable experience for future senior UX roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Experienced Colleague" designation implies a need for self-direction and the ability to contribute beyond basic design tasks. Growth opportunities are likely to come from taking ownership of projects and influencing design best practices.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid working model, requiring 2-3 days per week in either the Edinburgh or Stirling office. This suggests a collaborative office environment designed to facilitate teamwork and in-person interaction when needed.

Office Location(s): Edinburgh and Stirling, Scotland. These locations offer access to talent pools and are established business hubs, with specific office addresses likely available upon application or inquiry.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices are expected to have areas conducive to brainstorming, design reviews, and team meetings, supporting the hybrid work model.

• Technology & Tools: Access to necessary design software (Figma, Miro) and IT infrastructure will be provided to support efficient design work, whether in-office or remotely.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with the Senior Digital Experience Manager, fellow UX designers, and cross-functional stakeholders to foster a cohesive and productive work environment.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours/week) with a hybrid arrangement. This allows for a balance between focused remote work and collaborative in-office sessions, aligning with modern work expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key aspect of the work environment, requiring candidates to be comfortable with a mix of remote and in-office work. The company's commitment to flexible working arrangements is also a notable feature.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Technical Interview/Portfolio Review: A deeper dive into the candidate's portfolio, discussing specific projects, design process, problem-solving approaches, and tool proficiency. This stage will likely involve presenting case studies.

• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion with the Senior Digital Experience Manager to assess alignment with team objectives, understanding of UX principles in a financial services context, and overall suitability for the role.

• Cross-functional/Stakeholder Interview (Potential): Meeting with key stakeholders from marketing or product teams to evaluate collaboration skills and ability to translate business needs into design solutions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase projects that best demonstrate your skills relevant to web design, customer journeys, and ideally, financial services.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the process you followed, the challenges you faced, your solutions, and the outcomes (quantifiable if possible).

• Highlight Process: Emphasize your user-centered design methodology, research integration, and iterative design approach.

• Showcase Tools: Demonstrate proficiency with Figma, Miro, and any other relevant design or prototyping tools.

• Address Accessibility: Clearly explain how you integrated accessibility standards into your designs.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design decisions, how you handle feedback, and how you collaborate with developers and stakeholders.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach designing a specific digital experience for M&G, or to critique an existing digital touchpoint and propose improvements.

• Prepare examples of how you've used customer insight and data to drive design decisions.

• Think about how you would contribute to a design system and maintain consistency across a large digital estate.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is critical. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their projects in detail, explaining their thought process, design rationale, and the impact of their work. Understanding the financial services context will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for wireframing, UI design, prototyping, and collaborative design workflows. Proficiency is a core requirement.

• MIRO: Crucial for collaborative sessions, user journey mapping, brainstorming, and workshop facilitation.

• Prototyping Tools: Experience with Figma's prototyping capabilities is expected; familiarity with other tools like InVision or Adobe XD may be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Web Analytics Tools: Familiarity with tools like Google Analytics or Adobe Analytics for understanding user behavior, tracking conversions, and validating design decisions.

• Data Visualization Tools: Exposure to tools that help in interpreting and presenting data insights (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or built-in reporting within analytics platforms).

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct requirement for UX design, an understanding of how CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms (e.g., Marketo, Adobe Marketing Cloud) interact with the digital marketing estate can provide valuable context for designing integrated user journeys.

• Design Systems: Experience with or understanding of how to contribute to and utilize established design systems for consistent UI development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Figma and Miro indicates these are primary tools. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate their proficiency and articulate how they leverage these tools in their design process.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A deep focus on usability, clarity, and meeting customer needs is paramount. Designs must serve the user effectively.

• Integrity & Care: Reflecting M&G's core values, this translates to ethical design practices, transparency in user communication, and a commitment to user well-being.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working together, sharing insights, and contributing to a collective effort. The "moving it forward together" ethos is key.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Valuing evidence, customer insight, and analytics to guide design choices and measure impact.

• Continuous Improvement: A mindset of constantly seeking to enhance user experiences and optimize digital touchpoints.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expected to collaborate effectively with marketing, product, IT, and content teams, bridging the gap between user needs and business objectives.

• Evidence-Based Advocacy: Confidently advocating for good UX using data, research findings, and best practices, even when faced with differing opinions.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear, concise, and constructive communication in design reviews, feedback sessions, and project discussions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values – "telling it like it is, owning it now, and moving it forward together with care and integrity" – should be reflected in how candidates present themselves and their approach to design and teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Stakeholder Needs: Effectively integrating diverse stakeholder requirements (marketing, business, technical) with user needs and UX best practices.

• Legacy Systems & Constraints: Designing within the potential limitations of existing digital infrastructure or brand guidelines while pushing for innovation.

• Synthesizing Complex Information: Translating intricate financial products and services into simple, understandable, and engaging user experiences.

• Measuring UX Impact: Clearly demonstrating the ROI and business value of UX design initiatives, particularly within a fixed-term contract.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced UX Techniques: Opportunity to refine skills in areas like user research methodologies, interaction design patterns, and accessibility compliance.

• Industry Knowledge: Gaining deeper insight into the financial services sector, its unique user needs, and regulatory landscape.

• Design System Contribution: Learning to contribute to and leverage a mature design system, enhancing understanding of scalable design solutions.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to marketing strategies, product development cycles, and technical implementation processes within a large organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they approach these challenges and highlight instances where they've overcome similar obstacles in previous roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach designing a new landing page for a specific M&G investment product, considering both customer acquisition and regulatory compliance?" (Assesses strategic thinking, user-centricity, and industry awareness.)

• "Describe your process for advocating for a user-centered design change when faced with resistance from stakeholders or technical limitations." (Evaluates communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your research, what do you see as the biggest UX challenges or opportunities for M&G in the digital space?" (Demonstrates company research and strategic insight.)

• "How does your personal approach to design align with M&G's stated values of 'care and integrity' and 'moving it forward together'?" (Assesses cultural fit and alignment with company ethos.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of your UX philosophy and then walk through 2-3 key projects. For each project, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to explain your contribution.

• Focus on Process: Clearly articulate your design process, including research, ideation, wireframing, prototyping, testing, and iteration. Explain why you made certain decisions.

• Highlight Collaboration: Detail how you worked with developers, product managers, marketers, and other stakeholders.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., increased conversion rates, reduced bounce rates, improved task completion times).

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Be ready to show examples of your work in Figma and discuss how you use Miro for collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should tailor their preparation to M&G's industry (financial services) and values. Demonstrating an understanding of regulatory considerations in design will be a strong advantage.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this UX Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link, ensuring all sections of the application are completed thoroughly.

• Portfolio Customization: Select and refine your portfolio to prominently feature web design projects, customer-facing interfaces, and any experience within the financial services sector. Ensure your process is clearly articulated for each case study.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight keywords from the job description, such as "UX Design," "Figma," "Miro," "User-Centred Design," "Accessibility," and "Digital Marketing." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, presenting your portfolio case studies, and answering strategic and behavioral questions. Prepare specific examples of how you've handled challenges and collaborated with teams.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research M&G plc, its mission, values, and recent digital initiatives. Understand its position in the financial services market and any potential UX-related challenges or opportunities.

⚠️ 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.