I’m a design leader and lifelong learner who treats each new challenge as an opportunity to do my very best work. As a player, mentor, coach I love collaborating with others to distill complex inputs into simple, beautifully crafted, human-centered solutions.
Work History
2021-Present
Lithia & Driveway
Principal Product Designer
As a design leader and principal-level individual contributor I established the design vision for numerous verticals, collaborating with peers to shape strategy based on pragmatic user research.
- I routinely distilled complex problems into intuitive experiences and crafted beautiful systems-based interfaces which increased conversion rates, boosted repeat transactions, and improved operational efficiency.
- As a servant leader and force multiplier I mentored teams, introduced skill development programs, leveled up design operations, and fostered an environment of empathy and excellence.
- I led, right-sized, and conducted user research, established foundational UX artifacts, launched numerous products, and iterated on features based on user insights for everything from car-buying and selling experiences to internal tools like AI and Reporting.
2018-2021
Transamerica
Product Design Manager/Product Design Lead
As Lead Product Designer, I collaborated within agile pods to create user-friendly software solutions for retirement plan participants.
- Leveraged generative research to collaboratively define product and design vision and bring MVPs to market.
- I delivered iterative product improvements based on observable user needs and pain points.
- Designed and tested user interfaces that significantly increased adoption rates of participant tools, enhancing overall user satisfaction.
- Streamlined core transactions, reducing call center volume by implementing intuitive workflows and consolidating redundant applications, leading to improved operational efficiency.
2010-2018
PR Newswire / Cision
Director of User Experience
In this leadership role, I built a team to address complex design challenges for PR and Marketing professionals.
- Implemented processes that improved business outcomes across desktop and mobile platforms, driving team efficiency and collaboration.
- Developed user personas and conducted comprehensive research to inform design decisions, ensuring products met the specific needs of end-users.
- Achieved measurable results, including increased customer acquisition and user satisfaction, contributing to a public offering valued at $2.4 billion and two successful acquisitions totaling $840 million.
2008-2010
Rabble+Rouser
Art Director
As Lead Designer and Art Director, I was responsible for creating award-winning digital and print solutions for high-profile clients.
- Designed and launched iPhone and iPad apps, websites, and advertising materials, consistently meeting client objectives under tight deadlines.
- Collaborated with multi-functional teams to develop engaging and functional interactive solutions, leading to enhanced client satisfaction and repeat business.
- Key achievements include winning the Communication Arts Interactive Design Award, being regularly featured in the Apple App Store for iPhone and iPad apps, and NYT Bestseller list.
2008-2021
Ecologick
Independent Consultant
In my consulting practice, I provided strategic design and digital marketing services to a diverse range of clients.
- Delivered tailored solutions in SEO, eCommerce, UX/UI design, and strategy, helping clients optimize their online presence and drive growth.
- Collaborated with various industries, including startups, non-profits, and corporations, to develop actionable insights and implement effective design strategies.
2005-2008
Refinery / G2
Senior Interactive Designer
As a Web Designer, I created compelling web materials for various client sectors, including food services and pharmaceuticals.
- Conceptualized and executed creative strategies that enhanced user experience and engagement across multiple platforms.
- Conducted user testing and feedback sessions to refine designs, ensuring that final products met client objectives and user expectations.
2001-2005
Project West
Art Director
In this role, I developed integrated marketing campaigns for a wide array of clients, from resorts to non-profits.
- Directed the design and production of print and web materials, ensuring consistency in branding and messaging across all channels.
- Collaborated closely with clients to understand their vision and goals, resulting in targeted campaigns that effectively engaged their audiences.
Hard Skills
The necessary skills to carry out the craft of Design, honed over the course of 20+ years in the field
- User Research
- Business Elicitation
- Strategy
- Concepting
- Wireframing
- Prototyping
- UI Design
- Design System
- Handoff Specs
- Markup
- CSS
- Progress Measures
- Usability Testing
- Success Measurement
Soft Skills
Arguably more impactful and harder to coach than their counterparts, soft skills enable teams to work as one to execute a vision.
- Design Leadership
- Culture Building
- Storytelling
- Presentation
- Building Coalitions
- Process Documentation
- Design Evangelism
- Innovation
- Team Building
- Workshopping
- Managing Social Capital
- Documentation
- User Empathy
- Business Empathy