Zendesk Product Design Career Paths (Individual Contributor) · Title Product Design Assistant...
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Title Product Design Assistant Associate Product Designer Product Designer Senior Product Designer Lead Product Designer Principle Product Designer Distinguished Product Designer VP, Product Design SVP, Product Design CCO Functional Knowledge / Scope Helping others to execute and assisting with whatever is needed for the team to thrive. They demonstrate an excellent capacity to learn quickly and model after the best people and practices around them. Learns to use good judgement in visual hierarchy, layout and information architecture to inform their work. They are learning to use Zendesk’s design system and previous product design work to build on Zendesk products. They are familiar with sketching, flow diagrams, interface design tools and prototyping tools and use these regularly in their work. They work very closely with their manager to solve problems. Shows an understanding of visual hierarchy, layout and information architecture. They are comfortable using Zendesk’s design system and previous product design work to build on Zendesk products. They consider the holistic user experience in their work and have a strong understanding of the vision and key objectives for their product area, taking cues from their manager as well as their product and engineering leads. Some working knowledge of user reserch process and methodoligies. Expert level product designer with extensive and demonstrated expertise in visual hierarchy, layout and information architecture. Displays an expert level understanding of user-centered design methodoliges and a willingness to help and mentor those around them. They design for scale and consistenly advocate for the use and contribution to the Zendesk design system (Garden). They are a respected partner amongst their peers in product and engineering and demonstrate a sophisticated grasp of the business objectives for thier product area. They identify product overlaps and gaps in their own work, and that of other designers on adjacent products. They are able to consider potential connections platforms. They possess strong verbal and written communication skills in both one-on- one and group situations. They lead and direct group design conversations keeping them focused and on track. These designers demonstrate a deep dedication to our customers by investing signifcant time observing them work, and validating ideas with them. Senior Product Designers may be given the option to manage 1-2 people at this career level by their ability to own large, highly-strategic projects. They posses the toolkit to not only deliver design solutions, but also demonstrate a well-rounded sense of business skills ranging from project management to business analysis which enables them to command the confidence of their peers outside of the design org. These designers have developed expert level communication skills and are able to represent the design department with a wide variety of stakeholders and have demonstrated their ability to manage expectations of a diverse set of individuals. Lead Product Designers excel in their presentation skills and are able to present their work in a clear and impactful manner to stakeholders They posses the relationship building skills that allow them to forge deep alliances with influential stakeholders outside the design org and have the ability to influence decision makers outside of the design organization. They typically lead projects from a variety of areas throughout the product and posses the historical knowledge to contribute across broad areas of the company. They tirelessly contribute contstructive solutions for how design process and practices can be improved andhave the influence within the design org to facilitiate change. These designers demonstrate a deep dedication to our customers by investing signifcant time observing them work, and validating ideas with them. Though not a people management track role, these designers are expected to provide structured mentorship for 1-3 designers. This could include specialized technical training, personal coaching, etc. Principal product designers are typically very active within the design community and have a well-established reputation. Principal designers possess the ability to conceive of, socialize, research and execute on complex design projects that are critical to Zendesk. They require little formal direction and bring with them a broad history of best practices from their past roles. They are a recognized thought leader across design and product, both within their local These designers seek out ways of deepening the connection between product design and brand design These designers demonstrate a deep dedication to our customers by investing signifcant time observing them work, and validating ideas with them. These designers demonstrate a deep dedication to better using data to make decisions. They invest their resources in measuring their design work and the work of others, and using those learnings to improve our team as a whole. These designers are expected to provide structured mentorship for 1-3 designers. This could include specialized technical training, personal coaching, etc. Distinguished Product Designers are active conference speakers and writers/bloggers on topics of design. They raise awareness of the Zendesk design team by facilitating a dialog/ awareness between our org and the external design community. They generously share their personal brand to help elevate the brand of our design department. They are able to function as a spokesperson for the department at high profile industry events. These designers embody excellence in product design at all levels. Can represent the department at the highest levels within the company. These designers are expected to provide structured mentorship for 1-3 designers. This could include specialized technical training, personal coaching, etc. Manages and coaches other design managers globally. Avid writer/blogger and public speaker at design industry events. Sets vision and direction through resource allocation decisions for a significant organization or business unit. Extensive and detailed hands-on financial responsibility for the team budget Heavy responsibilty for recruiting top talent and managing the community facing brand of the design organization Works closely with Brand Team leadership to align the groups and find opportunities for partnership Develops and implements strategic plans and objectives for the organization in alignment with corporate strategy; oversees the direction and approves tactical administrative or operational policies and resource allocation decisions to ensure achievement of objectives. Job Complexity Executes on a variety of tasks of minimal scope and complexity. Works on problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations or data requires a review of a variety of factors. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action. Builds productive internal/external working relationships. Works on problems of diverse scope where analysis of data requires an evaluation of identifiable factors. Demonstrates good judgment in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions. Networks with senior internal and external personnel in own area of expertise. Works on complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors. Exercises judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Networks with key contacts outside own area of expertise. Works on significant and unique issues where analysis of situations or data requires an evaluation of intangibles. Exercises independent judgment in methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Creates formal networks involving coordination among groups. Works on issues that impact design/selling success or address future concepts, products or technologies. Creates formal networks with key decision makers and senior leadership team. May serve as a company representative. Works on issues that impact design/ selling success or address future concepts, products or technologies. Creates formal networks with key decision makers and serves as an external spokesperson for the organization. Develops strategic plans to ensure successful implementation of action plans and objectives where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth knowledge of the company, competitive environment, technology and economic or social implications of organization activities. Participates in the development of corporate methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for projects, programs, and people. Approves budgets and schedules to meet corporate requirements. Consistently works with abstract ideas or situations across functional areas of the business. Through assessment of intangible variables, identifies and evaluates core issues, providing strategy and direction for major functional areas. Requires in-depth knowledge of the function, business strategies, and the company’s goals as well as external activities. Consistently works with abstract ideas or situations across functional areas of the business. Through assessment of intangible variables, identifies and evaluates core issues, providing strategy and direction for major functional areas. Requires in-depth knowledge of the function, business strategies, and the company’s goals as of company activities. Problem Solving/ Discretion Relies heavily on their manager to solve problems. Solves problems in straightforward situations; analyzes possible solutions using technical experience and judgment and precedents. Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective on existing solutions; exercises judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information. Leads others to solve complex problems; uses sophisticated analytical thought to exercise judgment and identify solutions. Solves unique and complex problems with broad impact on the business; requires conceptual and innovative thinking to develop innovative solutions. Solves unique and complex problems with broad impact on the business; requires conceptual and innovative thinking to develop highly innovative and ingenious solutions. Proactively identifies and solves the most complex problems; uses ground-breaking methods to think beyond existing solutions. Extends knowledge in a given field by developing novel concepts, theories, and products. Erroneous decisions will have a serious impact on the overall success of long-term company operations. Erroneous decisions will have an immense impact on the overall success of long-term company operations. Decisions drive the success, failure, profitability and growth of the company. Impact Has limited impact on own work. Contributes towards the completion of routine technical/ functional tasks. Works within standard procedures and practices. Impacts quality of own work and the work of others on the team. Works within guidelines and policies. Impacts a range of customer, operational, project or service activities within own team and other related teams; works within broad guidelines and policies. Impacts the achievement of customer, operational, project or service objectives; work is guided by functional policies. Impacts the direction and resource allocation for program, project or services; works within general functional policies and industry guidelines. Impacts business direction through the development of innovative services or products. Impacts business direction through the development of innovative services or products. Objectives directly tied to the overall performance of the company. Makes final decisions, guided by only the broadest policies and strategies. Objectives directly tied to the overall performance of the company. Makes final decisions, guided by only the broadest policies and strategies. Takes action guided by the general direction set by the CEO. Supervision / Interaction Normally receives detailed instructions on all work. Normally receives general instructions on routine work, detailed instructions on new projects or assignments. Normally receives little instruction on day-to-day work, general instructions on new assignments. Determines methods and procedures on new assignments and may coordinate activities of other personnel (Team Lead). Acts independently to determine methods and procedures on new or special assignments. May supervise the activities of others. Exercises wide latitude in determining objectives and approaches to critical assignments. Exercises wide latitude in determining objectives and approaches to critical assignments. Leads highly visible multidisciplinary project teams or initiatives; provides thought leadership. Regularly interacts with executives and/or major customers. Interactions frequently involve highly visible activities such as speaking to or negotiating with customers, influencing other executives and/or academics, lobbying regulators or policy makers and representing the organization on matters of great significance to the organization. Interacts internally and externally with executive level management, consultants, and corporate leaders, requiring negotiation skills over extremely critical matters. Influences long-term vision and strategy of corporate consequence. Interacts internally and externally with executive level management, consultants, and corporate leaders, requiring negotiation skills over extremely critical matters. Influences long-term vision and strategy of corporate consequence. Leadership Directs and controls the activities of a complete functional area through multiple levels of management within the company. Has overall expense priorities, and approving changes to methods and practices.Manages a team of directors and/or high-level individual contributors. Manages primarily through a team of second-level managers (aka Management Level 5 Directors). Reports to functional-area senior VP, global corporate functional leader or a corporate C-level executive. Directs and controls the activities of more than one functional area, division, product group or service area through vice president level executive leaders who have overall operational responsibility for their assigned functions, geographic regions, and businesses. Generally reports to a global corporate functional area executive or C-level executive. Directs and controls the activities of more than one functional area, division, product group or service area through vice president level executive leaders who have overall operational responsibility for their assigned functions, geographic regions, and businesses. Reports to the CEO. Zendesk Product Design Career Paths (Individual Contributor) SVP, Product Design Work in Progress Work in Progress Design executive responsible for multiple functions, departments and/or geographic studios. Acts as a key delegate between Product Design and the rest of the business. Regularly interfaces with the CEO and members of C-Staff.
Transcript of Zendesk Product Design Career Paths (Individual Contributor) · Title Product Design Assistant...
Title Product Design Assistant
Associate Product Designer Product Designer Senior Product Designer Lead Product Designer Principle Product Designer Distinguished Product
Designer VP, Product Design SVP, Product Design CCO
Functional Knowledge
/ Scope
Helping others to execute and assisting with whatever is needed for the team to thrive. They demonstrate an excellent capacity to learn quickly and model after the best people and practices around them.
Learns to use good judgement in visual hierarchy, layout and information architecture to inform their work. They are learning to use Zendesk’s design system and previous product design work to build on Zendesk products. They are familiar with sketching, flow diagrams, interface design tools and prototyping tools and use these regularly in their work. They work very closely with their manager to solve problems.
Shows an understanding of visual hierarchy, layout and information architecture. They are comfortable using Zendesk’s design system and previous product design work to build on Zendesk products. They consider the holistic user experience in their work and have a strong understanding of the vision and key objectives for their product area, taking cues from their manager as well as their product and engineering leads. Some working knowledge of user reserch process and methodoligies.
Expert level product designer with extensive and demonstrated expertise in visual hierarchy, layout and information architecture. Displays an expert level understanding of user-centered design methodoliges and a willingness to help and mentor those around them. They design for scale and consistenly advocate for the use and contribution to the Zendesk design system (Garden). They are a respected partner amongst their peers in product and engineering and demonstrate a sophisticated grasp of the business objectives for thier product area. They identify product overlaps and gaps in their own work, and that of other designers on adjacent products. They are able to consider potential connections
platforms. They possess strong verbal and written communication skills in both one-on-one and group situations. They lead and direct group design conversations keeping them focused and on track.
These designers demonstrate a deep dedication to our customers by investing signifcant time observing them work, and validating ideas with them.
Senior Product Designers may be given the option to manage 1-2 people at this career level
by their ability to own large, highly-strategic projects. They posses the toolkit to not only deliver design solutions, but also demonstrate a well-rounded sense of business skills ranging from project management to business analysis which enables them to command the confidence of their peers outside of the design org.
These designers have developed expert level communication skills and are able to represent the design department with a wide variety of stakeholders and have demonstrated their ability to manage expectations of a diverse set of individuals. Lead Product Designers excel in their presentation skills and are able to present their work in a clear and impactful manner to stakeholders
They posses the relationship building skills that allow them to forge deep alliances with influential stakeholders outside the design org and have the ability to influence decision makers outside of the design organization.
They typically lead projects from a variety of areas throughout the product and posses the historical knowledge to contribute across broad areas of the company.
They tirelessly contribute contstructive solutions for how design process and practices can be improved andhave the influence within the design org to facilitiate change.
These designers demonstrate a deep dedication to our customers by investing signifcant time observing them work, and validating ideas with them.
Though not a people management track role, these designers are expected to provide structured mentorship for 1-3 designers. This could include specialized technical training, personal coaching, etc.
Principal product designers are typically very active within the design community and have a well-established reputation.
Principal designers possess the ability to conceive of, socialize, research and execute on complex design projects that are critical to Zendesk. They require little formal direction and bring with them a broad history of best practices from their past roles.
They are a recognized thought leader across design and product, both within their local
These designers seek out ways of deepening the connection between product design and brand design
These designers demonstrate a deep dedication to our customers by investing signifcant time observing them work, and validating ideas with them.
These designers demonstrate a deep dedication to better using data to make decisions. They invest their resources in measuring their design work and the work of others, and using those learnings to improve our team as a whole.
These designers are expected to provide structured mentorship for 1-3 designers. This could include specialized technical training, personal coaching, etc.
Distinguished Product Designers are active conference speakers and writers/bloggers on topics of design.
They raise awareness of the Zendesk design team by facilitating a dialog/awareness between our org and the external design community. They generously share their personal brand to help elevate the brand of our design department. They are able to function as a spokesperson for the department at high profile industry events.
These designers embody excellence in product design at all levels. Can represent the department at the highest levels within the company.
These designers are expected to provide structured mentorship for 1-3 designers. This could include specialized technical training, personal coaching, etc.
Manages and coaches other design managers globally.
Avid writer/blogger and public speaker at design industry events.
Sets vision and direction through resource allocation decisions for a significant organization or business unit.
Extensive and detailed hands-on financial responsibility for the team budget
Heavy responsibilty for recruiting top talent and managing the community facing brand of the design organization
Works closely with Brand Team leadership to align the groups and find opportunities for partnership
Develops and implements strategic plans and objectives for the organization in alignment with corporate strategy; oversees the direction and approves tactical administrative or operational policies and resource allocation decisions to ensure achievement of objectives.
Job Complexity
Executes on a variety of tasks of minimal scope and complexity.
Works on problems of moderate scope where analysis of situations or data requires a review of a variety of factors. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action. Builds productive internal/external working relationships.
Works on problems of diverse scope where analysis of data requires an evaluation of identifiable factors. Demonstrates good judgment in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions. Networks with senior internal and external personnel in own area of expertise.
Works on complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of variable factors. Exercises judgment in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Networks with key contacts outside own area of expertise.
Works on significant and unique issues where analysis of situations or data requires an evaluation of intangibles. Exercises independent judgment in methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. Creates formal networks involving coordination among groups.
Works on issues that impact design/selling success or address future concepts, products or technologies. Creates formal networks with key decision makers and senior leadership team. May serve as a company representative.
Works on issues that impact design/selling success or address future concepts, products or technologies. Creates formal networks with key decision makers and serves as an external spokesperson for the organization.
Develops strategic plans to ensure successful implementation of action plans and objectives where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth knowledge of the company, competitive environment, technology and economic or social implications of organization activities. Participates in the development of corporate methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for projects, programs, and people. Approves budgets and schedules to meet corporate requirements.
Consistently works with abstract ideas or situations across functional areas of the business. Through assessment of intangible variables, identifies and evaluates core issues, providing strategy and direction for major functional areas. Requires in-depth knowledge of the function, business strategies, and the company’s goals as well as external
activities.
Consistently works with abstract ideas or situations across functional areas of the business. Through assessment of intangible variables, identifies and evaluates core issues, providing strategy and direction for major functional areas. Requires in-depth knowledge of the function, business strategies, and the company’s goals as
of company activities.
Problem Solving/
Discretion
Relies heavily on their manager to solve problems.
Solves problems in straightforward situations; analyzes possible solutions using technical experience and judgment and precedents.
Solves complex problems; takes a new perspective on existing solutions; exercises judgment based on the analysis of multiple sources of information.
Leads others to solve complex problems; uses sophisticated analytical thought to exercise judgment and identify solutions.
Solves unique and complex problems with broad impact on the business; requires conceptual and innovative thinking to develop innovative solutions.
Solves unique and complex problems with broad impact on the business; requires conceptual and innovative thinking to develop highly innovative and ingenious solutions.
Proactively identifies and solves the most complex problems; uses ground-breaking methods to think beyond existing solutions. Extends knowledge in a given field by developing novel concepts, theories, and products.
Erroneous decisions will have a serious impact on the overall success of long-term company operations.
Erroneous decisions will have an immense impact on the overall success of long-term company operations.
Decisions drive the success, failure, profitability and growth of the company.
Impact
Has limited impact on own work. Contributes towards the completion of routine technical/functional tasks. Works within standard procedures and practices.
Impacts quality of own work and the work of others on the team. Works within guidelines and policies.
Impacts a range of customer, operational, project or service activities within own team and other related teams; works within broad guidelines and policies.
Impacts the achievement of customer, operational, project or service objectives; work is guided by functional policies.
Impacts the direction and resource allocation for program, project or services; works within general functional policies and industry guidelines.
Impacts business direction through the development of innovative services or products.
Impacts business direction through the development of innovative services or products.
Objectives directly tied to the overall performance of the company. Makes final decisions, guided by only the broadest policies and strategies.
Objectives directly tied to the overall performance of the company. Makes final decisions, guided by only the broadest policies and strategies.
Takes action guided by the general direction set by the CEO.
Supervision / Interaction
Normally receives detailed instructions on all work.
Normally receives general instructions on routine work, detailed instructions on new projects or assignments.
Normally receives little instruction on day-to-day work, general instructions on new assignments.
Determines methods and procedures on new assignments and may coordinate activities of other personnel (Team Lead).
Acts independently to determine methods and procedures on new or special assignments. May supervise the activities of others.
Exercises wide latitude in determining objectives and approaches to critical assignments.
Exercises wide latitude in determining objectives and approaches to critical assignments. Leads highly visible multidisciplinary project teams or initiatives; provides thought leadership.
Regularly interacts with executives and/or major customers. Interactions frequently involve highly visible activities such as speaking to or negotiating with customers, influencing other executives and/or academics, lobbying regulators or policy makers and representing the organization on matters of great significance to the organization.
Interacts internally and externally with executive level management, consultants, and corporate leaders, requiring negotiation skills over extremely critical matters. Influences long-term vision and strategy of corporate consequence.
Interacts internally and externally with executive level management, consultants, and corporate leaders, requiring negotiation skills over extremely critical matters. Influences long-term vision and strategy of corporate consequence.
Leadership
Directs and controls the activities of a complete functional area through multiple levels of management within the company. Has overall
expense priorities, and approving changes to methods and practices.Manages a team of directors and/or high-level individual contributors. Manages primarily through a team of second-level managers (aka Management Level 5 Directors). Reports to functional-area senior VP, global corporate functional leader or a corporate C-level executive.
Directs and controls the activities of more than one functional area, division, product group or service area through vice president level executive leaders who have overall operational responsibility for their assigned functions, geographic regions, and businesses. Generally reports to a global corporate functional area executive or C-level executive.
Directs and controls the activities of more than one functional area, division, product group or service area through vice president level executive leaders who have overall operational responsibility for their assigned functions, geographic regions, and businesses. Reports to the CEO.
Zendesk Product Design Career Paths (Individual Contributor)
SVP, Product Design
Work in Progress
Work in Progress
Design executive responsible for multiple functions, departments and/or geographic studios. Acts as a key delegate between Product Design and the rest of the business. Regularly interfaces with the CEO and members of C-Sta�.
