Design System Lead

VML; Dubai; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading creative agency in Dubai is seeking a Design System Lead to manage and evolve its design system for a prominent banking client. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience with enterprise-level design systems and proficiency in Figma. This on-site role offers a unique chance to contribute to significant digital transformations within the agency’s dynamic team.

Qualifications

• At least 5+ years of experience designing with an enterprise-level design system.
• Strong experience in managing and documenting design systems.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to challenge stakeholders.
• Experience in defining and implementing governance models for design systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage and evolve the design system for a high-profile banking client.
• Champion the integrity of the design system and ensure proper usage.
• Collaborate with design and development teams for implementation.
• Drive the progression of the design system across multiple channels.

Skills

Experience with enterprise-level design systems

Excellent communication skills

Expert-level proficiency in Figma

Ability to foster collaboration

Job description

Who We Are:

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

Are you a meticulous and visionary Design System Lead ready to shape the future of digital experiences for a leading financial institution? Join our dynamic CX team at VML, where you'll be the architect of consistency and efficiency for a single, high-profile banking client in Saudi Arabia. This pivotal role offers the unique opportunity to drive foundational change and elevate digital product development. As the guardian of the design system, you will not only manage and evolve this critical asset but also champion its integrity. You'll play a crucial role in challenging conventions, ensuring proper usage by both clients and designers, and meticulously orchestrating updates and optimizations. This position demands a collaborative spirit, working hand-in-hand with both design and development teams to ensure seamless implementation and adoption, ultimately empowering faster, more consistent innovation. Together, we will drive the progression of the design system across multiple channels, helping our client achieve their ambitious vision for a unified, scalable, and world-class digital experience. This role offers a unique opportunity to significantly contribute to a major digital transformation.

To be considered for this role you must have:

• At least 5+ years of experience designing with an enterprise-level design system, with a minimum of 2 years specifically managing and evolving such a system.
• Strong experience in managing and documenting design systems, including component libraries, guidelines, and version control.
• A highly organized and methodical approach to task management, prioritization, and system upkeep.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively challenge stakeholders and advocate for design system principles.
• Expert-level proficiency in Figma for design system management
• Demonstrated ability to foster collaboration between design and development teams, ensuring smooth integration of design system components.
• Experience in defining and implementing governance models for design systems.
• Please note: This role is purely focused on the management and evolution of the design system; it does not involve any hands-on design work.

You should be:

• Willing to dedicate normal working hours (9-6) to VML, not in parallel with other working commitments.
• Based in Dubai or Riyadh, or be willing to relocate. This role will be primarily office based so remote is not an option.
• Able to communicate your ideas effectively to clients and colleagues alike, particularly when advocating for design system adherence.
• Experienced working with developers and other talented types throughout the agency and wider network.
• Ability to present and defend design system principles and updates to peers and executive-level stakeholders.
• Focus on fine detail while considering the wider strategic context of the client's digital ecosystem.

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We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

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