At American Express, the business problem is to scale the design practice, optimize cross-functional collaboration, and enable designers to do their best work in a fast-paced, high-impact environment.
Requirements
- 7+ years of experience in design operations, program management, or related roles—preferably in enterprise or agency environments.
- Proven success in scaling design teams and operational frameworks in complex, matrixed organizations.
- Deep understanding of design and research practices, including UX, content design, user research and accessibility.
- Exceptional communication, facilitation, and stakeholder management skills.
- Experience with tools like Figma, Jira, Airtable, Mural, and design system platforms.
- A strategic mindset with a bias for action and a passion for enabling creative teams to thrive.
Responsibilities
- Operational Strategy & Execution: Architect and implement scalable systems, processes, and tools that support design planning, prioritization, and delivery across multiple workstreams and lines of business.
- Cross-Functional Partnership: Act as a strategic partner to design leadership and cross-functional stakeholders to align on goals, timelines, and resource allocation.
- Team Leadership: Build and lead a high-performing DesignOps team. Mentor program managers and operations specialists to drive excellence in execution.
- Design Systems & Tooling: Oversee the evolution and adoption of internal platforms (e.g., design systems, intake portals, design product tracking) to support consistency and efficiency.
- Scorecard Ownership: Lead the development and ongoing refinement of the Enterprise Design and Research Scorecard. Ensure it reflects team priorities, drives accountability, and supports strategic planning.
- Data-Driven Insights: Establish and track KPIs to measure design impact, team health, and operational effectiveness. Use insights to inform strategic decisions.
- Culture & Communication: Foster a culture of transparency, inclusion, and continuous improvement. Champion rituals that support team cohesion and creative momentum.
Other
- 7+ years of experience
- Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
- Employment eligibility to work with American Express in the United States is required as the company will not pursue visa sponsorship for these positions.
- 20+ weeks paid parental leave for all parents, regardless of gender, offered for pregnancy, adoption or surrogacy
- Flexible working model with hybrid, onsite or virtual arrangements depending on role and business need
