What’s Happening to Product Design Hiring?
For two months, I’ve been searching for a leadership role in product design, leveraging 12+ years of experience. Yet, calls are scarce, and ghosting has become the norm.
Are we losing focus on the value of experienced design leadership? Hiring should be about impact and innovation, not just ticking boxes.
Let’s talk—what’s your take on this?
I don’t really understand the leadership role in design? Does it mean more or managerial or VP level position? Design is more of art and you have to be extremely creative and hands on. Even Johnny Ive like people spend most of their time in their workshop doing prototypes. I think in India the culture of experience means only managing and not doing hands on has become a norm. And this will destroy everyone here.
Thank you for your perspective! I completely agree that design is a deeply creative and hands-on process. Leadership in design doesn’t mean stepping away from the craft—it’s about scaling its impact.
Good design leaders inspire teams, set a clear vision, build systems that empower creativity, and ensure design drives innovation. Even Jony Ive balanced hands-on work with guiding a team to achieve greatness.
I believe leadership amplifies creativity rather than replacing it. Would love to hear your thoughts on balancing strategy and craft!
