Head of UX

Head of UX Design Zürich DEPT® is a Growth Invention company built to help the world’s most ambitious brands grow faster. Operating at the intersection of technology and marketing, our 4,000+ specialists deliver growth invention services across Brand & Media, Experience, Commerce, CRM, and Technology & Data. We’re 50|50 tech and marketing, partner-led, and first to move. Clients include Google, Lufthansa, Meta, eBay, and OpenAI. We have been certified B Corp and Climate Neutral since 2021. JOB PURPOSE This position sits in our Zurich-based Experience & Engineering business unit. We deliver many services, from strategy and a performance-driven full-funnel approach to campaigning, e-commerce, data & analytics and content. We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional and engaging digital experiences. As Head of UX Design, you will lead and further develop our DACH UX practice across the entire value chain — from research to delivery. You will balance craft excellence, delivery quality, and operational health, while shaping a strong and future-ready UX discipline. You will also engage with ambitious brands to create user-centered experiences that drive measurable growth. WHAT YOU’LL DO: Driving innovation and delivering excellence: As the UX Lead for key accounts or in new business, you’ll set the standard for user-centric design and ensure that our work delivers strategic business impact. Delivery accountability: You are accountable for the department’s delivery excellence. You not only monitor quality but also collaborate with the EMEA UX leadership team to develop new capabilities and processes that ensure we stay ahead of the competition. Operational accountability: You proactively manage the department’s operational health as well as the client and team satisfaction. Foster cross-functional and international alignment: You will foster close collaboration with international teams across the EMEA region as well as with other crafts such as Strategy, Visual Design, Content and Tech, ensuring that our local UX practice does not operate in isolation but serves as a driving force for collective growth. Champion thought leadership: You will act as an internal and external voice, showcasing our pioneering work through speaking engagements and industry contributions to build our reputation as a growth innovation company. WHAT YOU BRING: Work experience: Over 15 years of experience in UX and product design, combined with in-depth expertise in complex digital ecosystems and fast-paced agency environments, with proven experience working with large, international brands and complex stakeholder environments. While experience in e-commerce isn't mandatory, it would be a great advantage. Portfolio: A proven track record across the entire UX value chain—from in-depth user research and strategic planning to hands-on concepts and iterative testing. Your portfolio demonstrates high-impact results and measurable business growth. Leadership: You have over 10 years' experience in people leadership. Managing and mentoring high-level talent, such as Leads, Principals and Associate Directors, would be an added bonus. Operational Excellence: You know how to handle urgent requests or escalations with a performance- and solution-oriented approach. Tech and AI savvy: Not only are you curious about digital trends, AI and new technologies, you are also committed to incorporating relevant innovations into your work. Communication and influence: The ability to transform complex UX strategies into persuasive pitches that convince senior stakeholders and establish the trust required for long-term partnerships. Full professional proficiency in both German and English (C1 level) is mandatory. WE OFFER: Flexible, hybrid working policy (2 days from the office, depending on location); 25 days holiday with the opportunity to take unpaid leave; Flexible health budget and Wellness & personal day. Learning & development budget. Referral bonus program. Occasional breakf…