Education jobs in United Kingdom

Job Title: Senior Product Designer
Company: Funding Circle UK
Location: United Kingdom
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Product Design / User Experience
Date Posted: 2025-12-19
Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5-10 years)
Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office)

• Drive end-to-end product design initiatives, from initial concept and user research to final UI delivery and QA, ensuring alignment with business objectives and user needs.
• Shape and evolve Funding Circle's multi-product experience and newly established design language, contributing to a cohesive and intuitive user journey.
• Collaborate deeply with Product Managers, Analysts, and Engineers within a product department structure, fostering a shared understanding and collective ownership of solutions.
• Champion a lean, fast-paced, iterative, and data-driven design approach, leveraging qualitative and quantitative insights design decisions and drive continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Product Designer, indicating a need for autonomy, leadership in design projects, and the ability to influence product strategy. The emphasis on a "nascent multi-product experience" and "newly created design language" suggests an opportunity to significantly shape the user interface and experience from an early stage, requiring a strategic and forward-thinking designer.

• Autonomously lead and manage the entire design lifecycle for product features and experiences, from discovery and ideation through to implementation and post-launch analysis.
• Translate complex user needs and business requirements into intuitive, engaging, and strategically sound design solutions for both web and native applications.
• Develop comprehensive design documentation, including user flows, wireframes, high-fidelity mockups, interactive prototypes, and detailed UI specifications.
• Actively participate in and contribute to user research activities, including planning, conducting user testing, and synthesizing findings to validate design decisions and uncover new opportunities.
• Maintain and evolve Funding Circle's design system, ensuring consistency, scalability, and efficiency across all product touchpoints.
• Collaborate effectively with engineering teams to ensure accurate implementation of designs, providing clear guidance and support throughout the development process.
• Proactively identify and articulate design risks, issues, and potential weaknesses, proposing and implementing mitigation strategies to ensure project success.
• Present design proposals compellingly to stakeholders, advocating for user experience considerations and securing buy-in for design recommendations.
• Drive user experience improvements and new design initiatives by leveraging qualitative and quantitative data insights to identify areas for optimization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on end-to-end ownership, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration. The mention of "nascent multi-product experience" and "newly created design language" implies a significant foundational role in establishing design standards and user experience frameworks within the company.

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, Computer Science, or a related field is typically expected for a Senior Product Designer role. Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.
Experience: A minimum of 5-10 years of progressive experience in product design, with a proven track record of leading and delivering complex digital products. Experience in a fast-paced, iterative, and data-driven environment is highly valued.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to autonomously lead end-to-end design projects from conception to completion.
• Mastery of iterative design methodologies such as Lean UX, Design Sprints, and other user-centered design principles.
• Proficiency in conducting user research and user testing, and translating findings into actionable design improvements.
• Expertise in creating elegant and systematic product User Interface (UI) designs for responsive web and native mobile experiences.
• Deep understanding of User Experience (UX) principles and patterns applicable to diverse digital platforms.
• Strong ability to present design proposals effectively, articulate design rationale, and advocate for user needs.
• Advanced proficiency in Figma for UI deliverables, design system creation, and high-fidelity prototyping.
• Proven ability to create compelling and functional prototypes within Figma to communicate design intent.
• Experience in developing and maintaining comprehensive design systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in writing appealing UX copy to enhance user interactions and comprehension.
• Familiarity with data analytics tools to inform design decisions and measure impact.
• Experience working with financial technology (FinTech) products or platforms.
• A strong understanding of Agile development methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize hands-on proficiency with Figma and a strong portfolio as critical demonstration tools. The "nice to have" skills suggest areas where candidates can further differentiate themselves, particularly in UX copywriting and data analysis tool usage. The experience level is inferred from the "Senior" title and the scope of responsibilities.

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing high-quality, thoughtful UX and UI work, with a preference for projects that are currently in use or have been successfully launched.
• Case studies that clearly articulate the design process, including problem definition, user research methodologies, design iterations, problem-solving approaches, and final outcomes.
• Examples demonstrating the ability to create elegant and systematic product UI for both responsive web and native experiences.
• Evidence of contributions to or creation of design systems, illustrating an understanding of component-based design and scalability.
• Prototypes demonstrating interactivity and user flow navigation, preferably created using Figma.
• Documentation or examples of how user testing and data insights were integrated into the design process to drive improvements.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of leading end-to-end design projects, showcasing the ability to manage timelines and deliver on project milestones.
• Examples of how lean, fast-paced, iterative, and data-driven design approaches were applied in previous roles.
• Demonstration of skills in translating user needs and business goals into effective design solutions.
• Instances where the candidate proactively identified and mitigated design-related risks or issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is a critical component for this role, expected to demonstrate not just aesthetic skill but a deep understanding of the design process, user-centricity, and the ability to deliver impactful, data-informed solutions. The emphasis on "products in use" suggests a preference for practical, real-world application of design skills.

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Product Designers in London, UK, with 5-10 years of experience, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between £60,000 - £85,000 per annum. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, skills, and performance during the interview process.

• Private Medical Insurance through Aviva
• Dental Insurance through Bupa
• MediCash
• Access to free online therapy sessions
• Reproductive health support discounts with Hertility
• Financial Well-being:
  • Octopus Money Coach
  • Free mortgage advisor partnership
  • Discounts across numerous retailers through Perks at Work
  • Electric Car Scheme
• Professional Development:
  • Dedicated annual learning allowance
  • Full access to an internal learning platform
• Lifestyle & Work-Life Balance:
  • Wellhub (for fitness discounts)
  • Award-winning parental leave policies (enhanced maternity, partner, and adoption leave)
  • Additional leave for parental bereavement
  • Additional leave for fertility treatments
• Other:
  • Potential for performance-based bonuses or equity (not explicitly stated, but common in senior roles).

Working Hours: The standard working hours are estimated to be 40 hours per week. The role is hybrid, requiring a minimum of three days per week in the central London office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on typical compensation for Senior Product Designers in the London market, considering the specified experience level. The benefits package is extensive and highlights Funding Circle's commitment to employee well-being, development, and lifestyle.

Industry: Financial Technology (FinTech), specifically focusing on Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) lending. Funding Circle leverages data and technology to provide quick and accessible finance to businesses, aiming to support economic growth.
Company Size: Funding Circle UK is part of a larger, established organization. While the exact number of employees in the UK office isn't specified, the company operates internationally. This size suggests a stable yet dynamic environment with potential for structured career paths and significant resources.
Founded: Funding Circle was founded in 2010, indicating over a decade of operational experience and a proven business model in the FinTech space. This longevity suggests a company that has navigated market challenges and established a strong reputation.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team is part of a broader Product department, which includes Product Managers and Analysts.
• Designers work closely and collaboratively with these Product colleagues and Engineers.
• The structure encourages cross-functional teamwork to identify problems, explore opportunities, and deliver solutions.
• Each team member has distinct responsibilities but shares a commitment to collective success.

Methodology:

• Design work is guided by a lean, fast-paced, iterative, and data-driven approach.
• Emphasis is placed on identifying problems, addressing opportunities, and delivering smart, user-centered solutions.
• User research and testing are integral to validating design decisions and ensuring products meet user needs and business goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Funding Circle's culture is characterized by its mission-driven focus on supporting small businesses, its commitment to innovation through technology, and its employee-centric approach (Circler proposition). The emphasis on data-driven, iterative design aligns with modern product development practices.

Operations Career Level: This role is a Senior Product Designer position, signifying a mid-to-senior level of expertise. It demands autonomy, leadership in design projects, and the ability to mentor or guide less experienced designers implicitly. The scope includes shaping product experiences and design language, indicating a significant impact on the product's direction and user perception.
Reporting Structure: The Senior Product Designer will report into a design lead or head of product design within the Product department. They will work collaboratively with Product Managers, Analysts, and Engineers, forming project-based cross-functional teams. This structure allows for direct contribution to product strategy and execution.
Operations Impact: The Senior Product Designer's impact is directly tied to the usability, engagement, and strategic success of Funding Circle's multi-product platform. By creating intuitive and effective user experiences, they will directly influence customer acquisition, retention, and satisfaction, ultimately contributing to the company's mission of supporting small businesses and driving economic growth. The role's influence extends to shaping the company's design language and overall product vision.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead larger, more complex design initiatives, potentially mentoring junior designers and contributing to design strategy.
• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas such as design systems, user research methodologies, or FinTech product innovation.
• Cross-Functional Advancement: Potential to move into product management or lead design initiatives within specific product verticals.
• Continuous Learning: Access to a dedicated annual learning allowance and internal learning platforms to stay abreast of the latest design trends, tools, and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior Product Designer role offers a clear path for growth within a well-established FinTech company. The emphasis on autonomy and strategic contribution suggests opportunities for leadership and significant impact on product evolution.

Office Type: Funding Circle operates a hybrid work model, requiring a minimum of three days per week in their central London office. This suggests a collaborative office environment designed to facilitate in-person teamwork, brainstorming, and spontaneous interactions, balanced with the flexibility of remote work.
Office Location(s): The primary office for this role is in central London, United Kingdom. This location offers access to a vibrant business hub and is likely well-connected by public transport.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment is expected to support collaboration among designers, product managers, analysts, and engineers, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas.
• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design tools like Figma, prototyping software, and potentially analytics platforms will be available to support design workflows.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular face-to-face interaction with the Product Design team and broader Product department, promoting a strong team culture and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, with an estimated 40 working hours per week. The hybrid model allows for a balance between structured office time for collaboration and remote work for focused individual tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model underscores a balanced approach to work, valuing both in-person collaboration and individual flexibility. The London office location places the role within a key business and innovation hub.

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience.
• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion focused on your background, motivations, and understanding of the role and Funding Circle.
• Design Challenge/Portfolio Review: A session where you will present your portfolio, discuss specific case studies, and potentially complete a design exercise. This will assess your design process, problem-solving skills, and ability to articulate your work.
• Cross-Functional Interview: An opportunity to meet with Product Managers, Engineers, and Analysts to evaluate collaboration style, communication skills, and cross-functional fit.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader, focusing on strategic thinking, cultural alignment, and overall suitability for the Senior Product Designer role.
• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase end-to-end design ownership, intricate problem-solving, and impact. Prioritize projects that align with FinTech or complex platform design.
• Tell a Story: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process (research, ideation, iteration), the challenges faced, your solutions, and the quantifiable outcomes or impact.
• Highlight Process & Rationale: Emphasize your thought process, how you used data and user research, and why you made specific design decisions. Showcase your understanding of iterative design and lean UX.
• Demonstrate Figma Proficiency: Be prepared to walk through your Figma files, showcasing your file organization, component usage, and tailoring design system contributions.
• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics (e.g., conversion rates, task completion times, user satisfaction scores) to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs. If direct metrics aren't available, discuss your potential uses.
• Address Collaboration: Be ready to discuss how you collaborated with PMs, engineers, etc., highlighting your communication and presentation skills.
• Understand the Context: Familiarize yourself with Funding Circle’s mission, target audience (SMEs), and the FinTech landscape.
• Practice Articulation: Rehearse explaining your design process.”

Strategy Questions:

• “Describe a time you autonomously lead”