Head of Design Research

Related keywords: remote job researchdesign remote jobremote job hiring

Introduction

Canva is seeking a Head of Design Research, a vital role that merges leadership and innovative research methodologies to drive product strategies. This position offers the unique opportunity to shape the design research landscape within a company that values creativity and innovation. The role specializes in several key initiatives that cater to both product development and team leadership within the context of the rapidly evolving AI environment. This comprehensive overview breaks down the demands and offerings of the position to better guide potential applicants.

Employer Overview

Canva is a well-known design platform that facilitates graphic design for users who may not have advanced skills in the field. With flagship campuses in Sydney and Melbourne, as well as co-working spaces in Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide, Canva fosters a dynamic work environment that encourages creativity, flexibility, and collaboration among its employees.

Job Location

The position primarily located in Australia, reflects Canva's commitment to transparency and workforce autonomy by allowing employees flexibility in their working arrangements.

Contract Type

The Head of Design Research role is classified as a full-time position, highlighting the company's intention to invest substantially in its research capabilities and develop high-performance standards within the design division.

Role Responsibilities

As the Head of Design Research, candidates will find themselves leading a team of design researchers and developing a cohesive strategy. Each task comes with its own challenges and opportunities, specifically:

  • Team Leadership: Leading, mentoring, and growing the research team while fostering an environment that promotes psychological safety and excellence in research methods.

  • Research Strategy: Crafting a design research strategy that aligns with Canva's broader product vision and company goals, particularly as it pertains to integrating innovations brought by AI technologies.

  • Evaluative Research: Implementing a system to identify user issues and ensuring product quality by analyzing and closing feedback loops effectively.

  • Self-Serve Research: Facilitating product teams in executing their own research by providing essential tools and training, maintaining quality standards across all projects.

  • Quality Control: Establishing and sustaining a quality benchmark through direct involvement in research activities and providing oversight for the entire research process.

  • Autonomy: Allowing decisive input into project direction, balancing multiple teams' needs while adhering to the strategic goals of the company.

  • Stakeholder Communication: Effectively communicating with senior leaders across the organization to ensure research outcomes align with company objectives.

  • Research Ecosystem Management: Creating metrics for success in research and managing tools that enhance collaboration and understanding.

Required Skills

Candidates are expected to meet a range of qualifications that demonstrate their proficiency and preparedness for this leadership role:

  • Leadership Skills: Having a proven track record as a seasoned leader in design research, emphasizing generative, evaluative, and mixed-method methodologies.

  • Strategic Vision: A strong motive to shape product strategy through high-quality research and adeptly integrating AI capabilities into practical applications.

  • Adaptability: A passion for continual learning and the ability to evolve research methodologies in alignment with AI advancements.

  • Communication: Excellent skills in managing stakeholders and conveying research implications to cross-functional teams, especially in Product, Design, Engineering, and Data.

Salary Information

While specific salary information is not directly provided in the job description, candidates should anticipate a competitive compensation package in line with industry standards, combined with perks such as equity packages that allow employees to share in the company's success.

Benefits and Incentives

Canva is committed to ensuring employee wellbeing through a variety of benefits:

  • Equity Packages: To foster a sense of ownership and involvement in the company’s achievements.

  • Inclusive Parental Leave: A policy that is considerate and accommodating for all parents and caregivers.

  • Vibe & Thrive Allowance: An annual budget designed to support wellbeing, social connections, and workspace setups.

  • Flexible Leave Options: Encouraging a strong work-life balance and allowing employees to take necessary time off when needed.

Conclusion

The role of Head of Design Research at Canva presents an exciting career opportunity for seasoned professionals looking to lead and innovate in design research strategies within a creatively vibrant company. Applicants who possess the required qualifications and a passion for research will find a role that not only challenges them but also fosters personal and professional growth.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply and share their pronouns and any required adjustments during the interview process to reflect Canva's inclusive hiring philosophy.



This job offer was originally published on himalayas.app

Canva

Australia

Design and arts

Full-time

April 25, 2026

2 views

0 clicks on Apply Now


Similar job offers


This job offer summary has been generated using automated technology. While we strive for accuracy, it may not always fully capture the nuances and details of the original job posting. We recommend reviewing the complete job listing before making any decisions or applications.