Design Program Manager, AI Commerce

Overview

Aquent has an EXCITING opportunity for a Design Program Manager with an emphasis on AI Commerce!

This is a hybrid position with our client’s office located in the San Francisco, CA area.  At this time, we are only considering candidates who are currently in the San Francisco area.

In addition, to be considered for this role, you must:

• Be authorized to work in the United States.
• Not require sponsorship of any kind for the duration of the contract/assignment.  No C2C is permitted for this position.

This role offers a unique opportunity to spearhead the development of design initiatives, integrating AI solutions into commerce products. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including AI engineers, product managers, UX/UI designers, and researchers, to define, prototype, and launch innovative AI-powered features. Your leadership will be essential in defining the roadmap for these initiatives, ensuring alignment with business objectives while fostering a culture of rapid experimentation and scalability.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the development of design initiatives, integrating AI-driven solutions into commerce products.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define, prototype, and launch new AI-powered features for commerce platforms.
• Drive the design of AI-powered products and features in their early stages, ensuring a user-centric approach.
• Define and manage the roadmap for new AI and commerce design initiatives, balancing rapid experimentation with strategic long-term goals.
• Partner with research teams to develop personas and journey maps that inform AI and commerce product designs.
• Advocate for best practices in AI-driven design, ensuring the team leverages cutting-edge advancements.

Must-Have Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in design operations, design program management, or a similar role in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience working with product teams or programs from road mapping through delivery.
• Proven expertise collaborating with senior leadership, UX/UI designers, engineers, and product teams.
• Extensive experience in program management methodologies (e.g., Agile, Scrum).
• In-depth knowledge of design system terminology and concepts.
• Expert in applying user-centered design methodologies, design thinking, and inclusive design best practices.
• Proactive approach to work, comfortable with ambiguity, and ability to organize and complete work.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinking with a focus on growth, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Nice-to-Have Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in business administration or related field.
• Experience in the fintech industry.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools.

The target hiring compensation range for this role is $81.82 to $90.91 an hour. Compensation is based on several factors including, but not limited to education, relevant work experience, relevant certifications, and location.

About Aquent Talent:

Aquent Talent connects the best talent in marketing, creative, and design with the world’s biggest brands.

Our eligible talent get access to amazing benefits like subsidized health, vision, and dental plans, paid sick leave, and retirement plans with a match. We also offer free online training through Aquent Gymnasium. More information on our awesome benefits! 
Aquent is an equal-opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. We’re about creating an inclusive environment—one where different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives are valued, and everyone can contribute, grow their careers, and thrive.