Lead Program Manager, Design

Airbnb

3d•$156,000 - $193,000•Remote

About The Position

Airbnb’s Design Operations team enables the Design organization to run effectively and at scale, partnering with Design, Product Management, Engineering, Marketing, Creative, and business leaders. The environment is collaborative, fast-moving, and focused on scaling design impact through operational excellence. As a Lead Design Program Manager, you will own end-to-end program management for a design team delivering critical product initiatives. You will scope, plan, execute, and launch programs that affect Airbnb hosts and guests while aligning work with roadmap commitments. The role focuses on cross-functional alignment, proactive risk management, and operational consistency so Design can deliver measurable outcomes at scale. This position is US remote-eligible and requires working West Coast hours. Occasional work at an Airbnb office or attendance at offsites may be required, as agreed with your manager. You must reside in a state where Airbnb, Inc. has a registered entity.

Requirements

12+ years of experience in Consulting, Program Management, Product/Project Management, or related fields.
Proven ability to manage and deliver impactful design initiatives in large digital product organizations.
Ability to navigate ambiguity, structure solutions, and drive initiatives from conception through launch.
Strategic mindset and ability to balance long-term thinking with near-term execution.
Demonstrated leadership in mediation, negotiation, and conflict resolution, including influencing senior stakeholders.
Experience establishing systems and scalable processes where little exists, with a flexible, solutions-oriented mindset.
Passion for organizational excellence, attention to detail, and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, hyper-growth environment.
Deep appreciation for the Product Design process and experience working within cross-functional, product-driven organizations.

Responsibilities

Partner with Design Managers, Directors, and cross-functional leaders to align on program scope, timelines, and deliverables.
Establish operating rhythms across design teams, including communication cadences, resource planning, and leadership check-ins.
Lead planning and execution of large product launches, ensuring design workstreams are delivered with quality and on time.
Bridge Design, Engineering, Product Marketing, and Business teams to ensure visibility, communication, and risk management.
Run internal initiatives to improve operational excellence and cross-functional collaboration.
Anticipate and resolve obstacles across teams, proactively elevate risks, and implement solutions.