Yes, that’s me in the squirrel mask.
I love solving problems.
I have over fifteen years of experience in human-centered product and UX design, agile development, lean UX, design thinking and qualitative user research. Additionally, I have worked to help build other designers’ careers through mentorship, teaching, speaking, and management, through both direct reports and leadership on projects.
Most recently, I was a Senior Manager of Strategic & Product Design for Bain & Company’s Innovation & Design team. Drawing on a diverse background in various startups and enterprise companies, I created experiences, capabilities and strategies for some of Bain’s top clients in a variety of industries, such as retail, restaurants, utilities, nonprofits, and enterprise technology. Alongside my case work, I was responsible for the professional development of a team of 4-5 designers and several others on an ad-hoc/unofficial basis.
And I love helping others.
I began mentoring early-career designers in 2016 and quickly found a passion for applying my empathy and problem-solving skills to helping others achieve their dream careers. Since joining ADPList in 2021, I’ve volunteered over 4,000 mentorship minutes to designers, strategists and innovators from all over the world, and am consistently named as a top mentor within the community.
People say lovely things about me
“Jess is very humble, kind and friendly. She is very attentive listener and gives honest feedback. I received very insightful pointers from her which will help me grow as a designer and improve my portfolio too.”
“Jess is insightful, thoughtful, and perceptive. Not only does Jess draw from a wealth of experience, but she also listens carefully and tailors her advice and feedback based on what's shared. The community is fortunate to have Jess share her talents as a mentor!”
“Jess has been one of the most supportive, positive designers I've ever had as a mentor. Not only is she a seasoned designer, but she also has the attributes that make her an incredible one -- charismatic positivity, resonating empathy, and supportive of all her colleagues and friends.”
I believe in showing up as your whole self.
My identity is intersectional: I am a woman, a mother, a STAR, neurodivergent and part of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
That’s why I strive to provide inclusive, equitable and welcoming environments for my teams. My specific personal focus is on embracing and encouraging neurodiversity, gender equity and nurturing environments for parents.
Outside of my work, I focus on raising a small human, eating my way around the world, putting together jigsaw puzzles (yes, I’m serious!), perfecting my latte-making skills, and baking.
I’m also a HUGE marine biology nerd — so much so that I have a full-sleeve tattoo of a C. colorata jellyfish with nudibranchs, and when I travel I specifically seek out the nearest aquarium… So far, I’ve been to aquariums in 4 US states and 2 other countries… and counting ;)