People Leadership

With nearly a decade of experience in people leadership roles from 2015, I am dedicated to growing team members from interns to senior staff inclusive of managers and directors. I have managed design, UX research, behavioral methods, and data science teams.  My approach centers on focusing on impact, fostering a culture of feedback, and building strong relationships across cross functional teams.  My leadership philosophy revolves around creating inclusive environments, supporting individual development, and ensuring that team members thrive both professionally and personally.

Building Inclusion and Supporting Growth

I am committed to cultivating an environment where learning and knowledge transfer are prioritized. Through team knowledge transfer sessions and strategic staff assignments, I have facilitated the acquisition of new skills and expertise in emerging domains. My conscientious approach to managing transitions and handovers ensures that team responsibilities and work are seamlessly transferred, minimizing disruption and maintaining productivity. This proactive management style helps in building a supportive team culture, especially during times of organizational change.

In my role, I have always been thoughtful about the allocation of researchers, identifying gaps in staffing strategies and reallocating UX researchers to areas where they can make the most impact. This strategy not only enhances business outcomes but also supports the professional growth of team members, aligning their roles with their strengths and career aspirations. Feedback from my role as a UX Director at Meta highlighted my effectiveness in fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, which has been integral to my leadership approach.

Developing and Empowering Team Members

I prioritize enabling my team members to succeed as individuals by setting clear goals, providing ownership of projects, and delivering timely, constructive feedback. I actively seek input from cross-functional and matrix team members to gain a comprehensive perspective on performance and areas for improvement. I am attentive to whether team members need assistance or simply need to be heard, ensuring that their needs are addressed appropriately.

Recognizing the importance of continuous development, I am always on the lookout for training opportunities and diverse talent, both academically and demographically. I value long-term team members for their experience and insights, often involving them in mentoring junior researchers and facilitating shadowing of complex tasks. This approach not only enhances skill development but also strengthens team cohesion and knowledge sharing.

My commitment to people leadership extends to maintaining relationships with former team members and actively networking to ensure that talent is continuously nurtured and valued. I am diligent about addressing any issues that could impact my team or my boss, ensuring that challenges are communicated and resolved in a timely manner.

By focusing on removing roadblocks and designing research roadmaps that align with organizational goals, I ensure that the team’s work translates into impactful outcomes. My leadership approach is grounded in collaboration, continuous improvement, and a deep respect for the contributions of every team member.