Head of Design Operations

The Head of Design Operations will lead the operational strategy and execution for the design function, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, client-centric experiences across digital platforms. This role oversees a team of product designers and is responsible for driving consistency, scalability, and efficiency in design practices while fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.

Core Responsibilities

• Define and execute the design operations strategy, embedding structures and operating model to run an effective, high performing design function that delivers on business objectives and client needs

• Lead and develop a team of c.10 product designers, setting clear performance standards, providing coaching and development opportunities, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

• Oversee the recruitment of permanent and contingent design resources, working with our talent teams to build an effective recruitment funnel across a range of agencies

• Establish and maintain design systems and standards, ensuring consistency, accessibility standards, and scalability across all digital experiences.

• Optimize work allocation and resource planning, balancing capacity with strategic priorities and business demands to drive operational excellence.

• Partner with Product, Research & Insights, Technology, Marketing, and Compliance teams to embed design throughout the product development lifecycle and ensure regulatory adherence.

• Champion user-centered design principles, leveraging research and data-driven insights to deliver experiences that meet client needs and business objectives.

• Monitor and measure design impact, defining KPIs for quality and operational efficiency, and using insights to continuously improve processes.

• Stay ahead of industry trends, introducing best practices in design operations, tooling, and methodologies to maintain competitive advantage.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience in design operations leadership within a digital-first organization, ideally in financial services or direct-to-consumer investment products.

• Strong track record of managing and scaling design teams, including recruitment, development, and performance management.

• Expertise in design systems, workflow optimization, and operational governance.

• Deep understanding of UX/UI principles, accessibility standards, and user-centered design.

• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills,

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment, balancing strategic vision with hands-on delivery.

How We Work

Vanguard has implemented a hybrid working model for the majority of our crew members, designed to capture the benefits of enhanced flexibility while enabling in-person learning, collaboration, and connection. We believe our mission-driven and highly collaborative culture is a critical enabler to support long-term client outcomes and enrich the employee experience.