Innovative Design Lead Job at Aquent in Stamford

Hartford, CT; Denver, CO; Austin, TX; or Morris Plains, NJ - hybrid Our major Healthcare client is seeking a passionate mid-level Innovation Design Lead to join the Health Innovation team for a year-long consulting assignment. In this role you will apply human-centered design principles to tackle complex healthcare challenges. You’ll work within a nimble, cross-functional team to transform ambiguous problem spaces into clearly defined opportunities and solutions that positively impact both our customers and clients, and business outcomes. Working in focused 3-month project cycles, you’ll leverage your expertise in qualitative research, design thinking, service design, and innovation to guide projects from initial discovery through solution validation. Your ability to navigate enterprise complexity while maintaining a laser focus on user needs will be crucial to success in this role. Key Responsibilities Lead end-to-end design thinking processes across multiple healthcare innovation initiatives, managing projects through 3-month sprint cycles from problem definition to solution validation Conduct comprehensive design research including contextual inquiry, stakeholder interviews, and observational studies to develop a deep understanding of user needs, behaviors, and pain points Synthesize complex research findings into actionable insights, compelling narratives, and clear strategic direction that aligns stakeholders and drives decision-making Facilitate collaborative workshops and design sessions with cross-functional partners to generate innovative solutions and build consensus around strategic direction Create and validate service blueprints, journey maps, prototypes, and other design artifacts that effectively communicate concepts and potential solutions Partner closely with Product Management and Engineering teams to ensure solutions are both desirable and feasible, while meeting business objectives Present findings, recommendations, and project progress to senior leadership and key stakeholders Mentor team members in design thinking methodologies and best practices Contribute to the evolution of our innovation practice and design processes Core Competencies Exceptional problem-solving abilities with a systematic yet creative approach Strong analytical skills and ability to synthesize complex information into clear insights Natural curiosity and constant desire to learn and understand Comfort with ambiguity and ability to create structure in undefined spaces Strong collaboration skills and ability to build consensus across diverse stakeholders Empathetic mindset and genuine desire to understand user needs Strategic thinking balanced with pragmatic execution Ability to challenge conventional thinking while maintaining positive relationships Required Qualifications 5-7 years of experience applying human-centered design methods in complex enterprise environments Bachelor’s degree in Design, Human-Computer Interaction, or related field Track record of delivering impactful solutions in ambiguous problem spaces Strong portfolio showcasing end-to-end innovation projects and strategic problem-solving Demonstrated expertise in qualitative research methods, including interviewing, observation, and synthesis Design Skills & Tools Expert-level proficiency in design and prototyping tools including Figma, Miro, and Adobe Creative Suite Strong information architecture and service design skills, with ability to create: User flows and journey maps Experience maps Wireframes and low/high-fidelity prototypes Demonstrated mastery of design research methods including: Contextual inquiry Ethnographic observation Usability testing Design thinking workshops Co-creation sessions Stakeholder alignment workshops Research synthesis sessions Strong data visualization and information design capabilities Experience with rapid prototyping methods across fidelity levels Ability to create compelling presentations and documentation using tools like PowerPoint and Figma Design Process & Methods Proven experience with design thinking frameworks (e.g., IDEO, Stanford d.school) Experience applying jobs-to-be-done framework Knowledge of behavioral design principles Excellent facilitation skills and ability to lead collaborative design sessions and sprints Familiarity with agile/lean UX practices and experience working in agile/sprint-based development processes Experience working in cross-functional teams and managing relationships with diverse stakeholders Experience mentoring others in design thinking methodologies Strong communication and storytelling abilities, with experience presenting to executive audiences Understanding of service design methodologies Preferred Qualifications Healthcare industry experience or demonstrated interest in healthcare innovation Graduate degree in Design, Business, or related field Experience with service design and systems thinking approaches Familiarity with lean startup and business model innovation approaches Experience with digital accessibility standards and inclusive design practices Knowledge of emerging technologies and their potential applications in healthcare This role offers the opportunity to drive meaningful innovation in healthcare while working with a talented, mission-driven team. The successful candidate will help shape the future of healthcare delivery while growing their expertise in innovation and design leadership. The target hiring compensation range for this role is $55–$60 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 . 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr