Associate Director Design

Zürich, Hybrid

DEPT® is a Growth Invention company built to help the world’s most ambitious brands grow faster. Mastering both technology and marketing, we work with clients such as Google, Lufthansa, Meta, eBay, and OpenAI. We are certified B Corp and Climate Neutral since 2021.

As Associate Director you will lead pitches to win new business across DACH and EMEA and oversee key account projects, developing user‑centered experiences that drive measurable growth. Your focus will be on ensuring outstanding design quality to win and retain clients.

• Design excellence – lead design for pitches and key accounts, setting award‑winning standards that exceed user, brand, and business requirements.
• Delivery accountability – responsible for design quality and successful delivery of pitches or project teams, setting direction and monitoring quality, working closely with core teams to ensure overall success.
• Teamwork and collaboration – work closely with Strategy, UX, Content, Technology, and international EMEA teams.
• Thought leadership – act as an internal and external voice, showcasing pioneering work through speaking engagements and industry contributions.

• 15+ years of experience in brand design, experience design (UX/UI), motion design, and large‑scale design systems.
• Proven work history in dynamic agency environments, collaborating with international brands and managing senior stakeholders.
• Outstanding portfolio across the entire design value chain, demonstrating measurable business growth; industry awards are welcome.
• Tech and AI savvy – curiosity about digital trends and AI, committed to integrating relevant innovations.
• Strong communication and influence skills – ability to translate design visions into compelling presentations that inspire high‑level decision makers. Proficient in German and English (C1 level).

• Flexible hybrid working policy (2 days from the office based on location); 25 days holiday with possibility of additional unpaid leave.
• Flexible health budget and wellness & personal day; learning & development budget.
• Referral bonus program.
• Occasional breakfast & lunch at the office, smoothies on Tuesdays.
• Health contribution through the Open Up platform.
• Option to work from the spacious Zurich office or the fully equipped Bern office based on preference.
• Social events and organised activities.
• Certified B Corp and Agency of the Year recognitions.
• Opportunities to work with clients of all sizes across all industries.
• Continuous skill development and certifications.
• Global annual DEPT® Cares Month supporting local charities.

DEPT® is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive. We actively seek to recruit, develop, nurture, and retain talented individuals from diverse backgrounds, with varying skills and perspectives. Reasonable adjustments can be discussed throughout the recruitment process and time with us.