Design Lead – Design Systems, Freelance

AKQA

Freelance Design Lead guiding designers and evolving complex design systems at AKQA, a WPP digital experience agency. Shaping flagship product experiences for a globally recognized consumer brand.

Posted 9/10/2026contractSeattle • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $2,500 - $3,000 per weekWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in UI Design and Art Direction, with a strong focus on creating and evolving design systems for digital platforms. Proven leadership in mentoring teams and aligning creative vision with client goals while promoting effective design solutions.

Highest-signal resume keywords

UI DesignArt DirectionDesign SystemsFigma ProficiencyTeam Leadership

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

UI DesignArt DirectionDesign SystemsResponsive DesignMobile DesignApplication Design

Soft Skills

Exceptional CommunicationMentoringProactive MindsetConceptual Thinking

Tools & Technologies

Figma

Industry Keywords

Digital PlatformsCreative DirectionUser InterfaceCross-Disciplinary Collaboration

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Provide hands-on leadership and creative direction for a team of designers
Oversee the creation, maintenance, and evolution of complex design systems
Shape creative vision for digital platforms and products
Align designs with client goals and the needs of a diverse user base
Collaborate with UX, strategy, and development teams
Present creative concepts and design solutions to clients
Mentor and support junior and mid-level designers
Promote creative excellence and distinctive, effective solutions
Support a globally recognized consumer brand’s flagship digital product experience

Requirements

What you’ll need

6+ years of experience in UI design, art direction, or a related field
Strong portfolio showcasing digital platforms and products
Proven ability to lead and inspire teams
Track record of mentoring and elevating designers
Deep expertise in creating and evolving design systems
Strong working knowledge of user interface, application, mobile, and responsive design principles
Expert proficiency in Figma, including advanced component and library management
Exceptional communication skills and ability to present and defend creative work to clients and stakeholders
Experience collaborating with cross-disciplinary teams, including UX and development
Proactive mindset and ability to adapt to technology and design changes
Strong point of view and ability to promote conceptual thinking across the team
Must be based in the United States

Benefits

Comp & perks

Remote work arrangement
40 hours/week
Freelance engagement through December 23, 2026
Regularly scheduled onsite client visits and meetings
Hybrid approach including required in-office days
Equal opportunity employment
Accommodations or flexibility may be discussed with the hiring team