Product Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Product Designer

Company: South China Morning Post

Location: Causeway Bay, Hong Kong (DC3 postal code)

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Product Design / UX/UI

Date Posted: 2026-05-05

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the visual standards and user engagement frameworks for digital experiences, focusing on scalable growth and conversion optimization.

• Own the UI/UX design for internal platforms, transforming complex newsroom and operational requirements into streamlined, efficient interfaces.

• Contribute to the evolution of product features and the core design system through user research and data-driven insights.

• Act as a design liaison, translating diverse stakeholder needs into functional and aesthetically aligned solutions for a global media organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within a leading global media organization, South China Morning Post, emphasizing the intersection of editorial storytelling, technology, and user experience. The focus on "Scalable Growth & Lifecycle Frameworks" and "Internal Systems Architecture" indicates a need for product designers who can think strategically about both external user engagement and internal operational efficiency. The mention of "AI-Forward Mindset" highlights a forward-looking approach to design tooling and innovation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define and implement visual standards for user engagement initiatives, focusing on high-fidelity digital experiences and landing journeys to drive measurable user growth.

• Design intuitive and efficient user interfaces for internal newsroom and operational platforms to empower global teams.

• Collaborate with senior design teams to execute UI enhancements, build localized features, and contribute to the comprehensive design system.

• Conduct user research and leverage behavioral data to inform design decisions, ensuring alignment with product roadmaps and user needs.

• Translate diverse stakeholder needs and business goals into functional, aesthetic, and user-centric design solutions.

• Utilize Generative AI tools (e.g., Gemini, Adobe Firefly, Figma Make) for rapid prototyping, asset generation, and exploring innovative visual storytelling.

• Ensure pixel-perfect execution and strict brand alignment across all design outputs, from internal dashboards to global landing pages.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a dual focus on external product design for audience engagement and internal tool design for operational efficiency. The emphasis on "scalable growth" and "internal systems architecture" suggests a need for designers who can manage complex information architectures and user flows across different user types and objectives.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While formal education requirements are not explicitly stated, an outstanding portfolio showcasing exceptional layout, typography, and systematic thinking is highly valued, especially for fresh graduates.

Experience:

2-3 years of experience in a digital design or product role is preferred. Exceptional fresh graduates with a strong portfolio demonstrating systematic thinking will also be considered.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in UI/UX design, with a strong portfolio demonstrating systematic thinking and a deep understanding of user flows and business objectives.

• Proficiency in Figma for interface design, prototyping, and collaboration.

• Expertise in the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) for asset creation and visual refinement.

• Strong understanding of product thinking, considering user needs, business goals, and the broader ecosystem in design decisions.

• Demonstrated ability to use user feedback and behavioral data to validate designs and optimize for impact and clarity.

• Relentless eye for detail, ensuring pixel-perfection and strict brand alignment in all design outputs.

• Familiarity with Generative AI tools (e.g., Gemini, Adobe Firefly, Figma Make) and eagerness to integrate them into the design workflow.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with rapid prototyping and iterative design processes.

• Knowledge of conversion optimization strategies and A/B testing principles.

• Familiarity with content management systems or digital publishing workflows.

• Experience contributing to or maintaining a design system.

• Understanding of localization principles in design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on an "outstanding portfolio" for fresh graduates suggests that practical application and demonstrated skills are prioritized over formal educational qualifications. The requirement for "Systematic Thinking" implies a need for candidates who can articulate their design process, decision-making rationale, and how their solutions address specific problems.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate systematic thinking throughout the design process, clearly illustrating problem identification, user research, ideation, and solution development.

• Include case studies that showcase how data and user research were leveraged to solve specific design challenges and drive measurable outcomes.

• Present a range of work, including high-end visuals for user engagement initiatives and functional UX for internal platforms.

• Highlight experience with Figma and Adobe Creative Suite, demonstrating proficiency in creating clean, organized handovers and maintaining high visual standards.

Process Documentation:

• Case studies should clearly articulate the design process, including user flows, wireframes, mockups, and interactive prototypes.

• Explain the rationale behind key design decisions, referencing user feedback, behavioral data, and business objectives.

• Detail the collaborative aspects of the design process, including how feedback from stakeholders and team members was incorporated.

• Illustrate the application of Generative AI tools in the design workflow, if applicable, showcasing innovative approaches to prototyping or asset generation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job description explicitly requests portfolios that demonstrate "Systematic Thinking" and include "case studies that show your design process, how you use data/research to solve problems, and your ability to handle both high-end visuals and functional UX." This indicates a strong preference for candidates who can articulate their methodology and demonstrate tangible results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the experience level (2-5 years), location (Hong Kong), and the nature of the role within a prominent media organization, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between HKD 25,000 to HKD 45,000 per month. This estimate accounts for the cost of living in Hong Kong and industry benchmarks for Product Designers with relevant skills.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., MPF contributions).

• Generous paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, workshops, and conference attendance.

• Access to company-provided resources and tools, including advanced design software and AI platforms.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Employee assistance program for well-being support.

Working Hours: Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. While the role is on-site, there may be occasional flexibility required to meet project deadlines or accommodate global team collaborations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary range is estimated based on market data for Product Designers in Hong Kong with 2-5 years of experience. This range can vary based on the specific candidate's qualifications and the final negotiation. Benefits are standard for full-time positions in established companies in the region.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Digital Media & Publishing. South China Morning Post is a leading global news organization with a focus on Asia, leveraging technology to deliver news and insights to a worldwide audience.

Company Size: The South China Morning Post is a large organization, likely employing several hundred to over a thousand employees globally. This size offers opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and exposure to diverse teams.

Founded:

The South China Morning Post was founded in 1903, giving it a long-standing reputation and deep history in journalism. This legacy is now being combined with a modern, digital-first approach to content delivery and user experience.

Team Structure:

• The Product Design team likely consists of several designers, potentially with specializations in UX, UI, visual design, and research.

• The Product Designer will report to a Senior Design Manager or Head of Product Design, working closely with Product Managers, Engineers, Editors, and other stakeholders across editorial and operational departments.

Methodology:

• Data-driven insights and user research are central to the design process, informing decisions and optimizing user experiences.

• Agile methodologies are likely employed for product development, emphasizing iterative design, rapid prototyping, and continuous improvement.

• A strong focus on systematic thinking and design system maintenance ensures consistency, quality, and efficiency across the digital product ecosystem.

Company Website: https://scmp.com/careers

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history combined with its aggressive digital transformation and embrace of AI positions it as an innovative player in the media industry. This blend of tradition and forward-thinking technology is likely reflected in its company culture and operational approach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Product Designer. It requires a solid foundation in design principles and a few years of practical experience, offering the opportunity to take ownership of significant design initiatives and contribute strategically to product evolution.

Reporting Structure: The Product Designer will report to a senior design lead or manager within the product team. They will also work closely with Product Managers, Engineers, and stakeholders from editorial and other business units, fostering a collaborative and cross-functional working environment.

Operations Impact: The Product Designer's work directly impacts user engagement, audience growth, and operational efficiency. By creating intuitive interfaces for both external and internal users, they contribute to the SCMP's mission of redefining news consumption and empowering its global teams.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like UX research, interaction design, visual design systems, or AI-driven design tools.

• Leadership Development: Potential to lead design projects, mentor junior designers, and contribute to the strategic direction of the product design team as experience grows.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain valuable experience working across different departments (editorial, technology, marketing, operations), enhancing understanding of the broader business landscape.

• Industry Influence: Contribute to innovative design solutions in the dynamic digital media space, with opportunities to attend industry events and stay abreast of emerging trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within a respected media organization that is actively investing in technology and design. The emphasis on both external and internal design challenges provides a broad learning experience.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the South China Morning Post's Causeway Bay office, suggesting a professional, modern office setting conducive to collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. This is a well-connected and vibrant business district, offering accessibility via public transport.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration among design, product, and engineering teams, likely featuring open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and quiet zones.

• Access to industry-standard design tools and technology, including advanced software licenses for Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, and emerging AI platforms.

• Opportunities for frequent interaction with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, promoting a dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment.

Work Schedule: The on-site work arrangement implies a structured work schedule, typically Monday to Friday, with adherence to standard office hours. However, the fast-paced nature of digital media may necessitate occasional flexibility to meet project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Being on-site in a major business hub like Causeway Bay provides a professional and collaborative environment, with opportunities for in-person interaction that is crucial for design ideation and problem-solving.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with role requirements. Focus on systematic thinking and demonstrated design process.

• Design Challenge/Case Study Review: Candidates may be asked to present a detailed case study from their portfolio, explaining their design process, problem-solving approach, and the impact of their solutions. This may involve a practical design exercise.

• Team Interviews: Interviews with design leads, product managers, and potentially engineers to assess technical skills, collaboration style, and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to evaluate strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall alignment with the company's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process: Clearly articulate your design journey for each case study – from understanding the problem to delivering the solution, highlighting your thought process at each stage.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use data and metrics to demonstrate the effectiveness of your designs (e.g., increased engagement, conversion rates, efficiency gains).

• Highlight Collaboration: Explain how you collaborated with stakeholders, product managers, and engineers, and how you incorporated their feedback.

• Demonstrate Tool Proficiency: Showcase your skills in Figma and Adobe Creative Suite, and discuss how you leverage AI tools for enhanced creativity and efficiency.

• Tailor to SCMP: If possible, subtly tailor your case studies or presentation to demonstrate an understanding of the media industry and SCMP's mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to common design challenges in digital media, such as balancing editorial content with user experience, optimizing for different devices, or integrating new technologies like AI.

• Practice explaining complex design decisions concisely and persuasively, focusing on the "why" behind your choices.

• Familiarize yourself with SCMP's digital products and recent initiatives to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of their business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Systematic Thinking" and "data/research to solve problems" in portfolio reviews means candidates should be ready to deconstruct their projects and articulate the strategic rationale behind every design decision.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Figma: Essential for UI/UX design, wireframing, prototyping, and collaborative workflows. Proficiency in its advanced features for design systems and complex interactions is expected.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Including Photoshop and Illustrator, for high-fidelity visual design, asset creation, and image manipulation.

• Generative AI Tools: Familiarity and practical application of tools like Gemini, Adobe Firefly, and Figma Make for rapid prototyping, asset generation, and exploring creative possibilities.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Experience with analytics platforms (e.g., Google Analytics, Amplitude, Mixpanel) to understand user behavior and measure design impact.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a primary focus for this design role, an understanding of how user data is managed within CRM systems and how automation impacts user journeys can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Generative AI tools indicates that SCMP is at the forefront of adopting new technologies in its design processes. Candidates who can demonstrate practical experience with these tools will have a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• User-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving the needs of both external readers and internal users.

• Innovation: Embracing new technologies like AI to push creative boundaries and enhance product offerings.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across diverse teams to achieve shared goals and deliver integrated solutions.

• Excellence: Striving for pixel-perfect execution, rigorous brand alignment, and high-impact design outcomes.

• Data-Driven: Utilizing insights from user feedback and behavioral data to guide design decisions and measure success.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Designers are expected to be active participants in cross-departmental projects, fostering strong relationships with Product Managers, Engineers, Editors, and Marketing teams.

• Iterative Feedback: A culture of continuous feedback and constructive critique, where designers are comfortable sharing work-in-progress and incorporating input from various perspectives.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, design learnings, and emerging trends within the design team and across the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values suggest a culture that balances creative exploration with rigorous execution and a strong emphasis on data and collaboration, all within the context of a dynamic global media environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Diverse Needs: Effectively reconciling the distinct requirements of a global news audience, internal newsroom operations, and business objectives.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with the fast-changing landscape of digital media, design tools, and AI technologies.

• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Ensuring a unified brand experience across a complex digital ecosystem with diverse content types and platforms.

• Data Interpretation: Translating complex behavioral data and user feedback into actionable design insights.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• AI Design Integration: Opportunities to become a leader in applying Generative AI to the design process within a major media organization.

• Cross-Disciplinary Projects: Gaining exposure to editorial workflows, content strategy, and business operations, broadening understanding of the media industry.

• Design System Expansion: Contributing to and potentially leading the evolution of a comprehensive design system for a large-scale digital product.

• Industry Engagement: Attending relevant design conferences, workshops, and potentially contributing to industry discussions on design in media and technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a forward-thinking digital media company, offering significant learning curves and opportunities for professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used user research or data to significantly alter a design decision. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your process, data interpretation, and impact.)

• "How would you approach designing an internal tool for journalists to manage breaking news alerts, considering speed, accuracy, and ease of use?" (Showcase your product thinking, user empathy, and systematic approach.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about the South China Morning Post and its mission?" (Research SCMP's recent initiatives, content, and strategic direction.)

• "How do you approach collaborating with non-design stakeholders, such as editors or engineers, to achieve a shared vision?" (Highlight your communication and diplomacy skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each case study as a narrative: the problem, your journey to the solution, key decisions, and the measurable results.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your slides are clean, well-designed, and highlight key visuals and process steps effectively.

• Interactive Elements: If possible, demonstrate interactive prototypes within Figma to showcase user flows and interactions.

• Concise Explanations: Be prepared to articulate your thought process and decision-making rationale clearly and concisely, avoiding jargon where possible.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your process, challenges, and outcomes, and be ready to provide detailed, evidence-based answers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to speak in detail about their design process, their experience with specific tools, and how they approach problem-solving in the context of media and technology. Demonstrating an understanding of SCMP's mission and its challenges will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Product Designer position:

• Submit your resume and a link to your Portfolio through the provided application portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio clearly showcases your systematic thinking, design process, and the impact of your work. Tailor your case studies to highlight relevant experience in UI/UX, data-driven design, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Resume Optimization: Highlight key operational skills and experiences, such as proficiency in Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, user research, and experience with AI tools. Quantify achievements with metrics where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process and problem-solving approach. Be ready to discuss your portfolio in detail and prepare for potential design challenges or case study presentations.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research the South China Morning Post, its digital products, its mission, and its approach to technology and design. Understand their target audience and the competitive landscape of digital media.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.