Open to opportunities

Jesse Kates

@jessekates

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Transformational UX leader driving innovation and user-centered design excellence.

United States

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What I'm looking for

Seeking a strategic leadership role in a collaborative environment where I can leverage my expertise in user-centered design and innovation to drive business growth and deliver exceptional user experiences.

As a seasoned leader in user experience and innovation, I have a proven track record of driving transformative change and fostering high-performing teams. Currently serving as the Director of UX Design at Cox Automotive, I have led the development of enterprise-wide design systems and established quantitative UX assessment programs that have significantly enhanced product roadmaps and user experiences.

With over two decades of experience, I have successfully managed cross-functional teams, led large-scale redesign projects, and implemented strategic initiatives that align with business goals. My achievements include being awarded the Rookie of The Year in 2022 for my contributions to Cox Automotive's Product & Technology division.

I am passionate about creating intuitive and impactful user experiences, leveraging research and data to inform design decisions. My expertise spans user-centered design, innovation management, and strategic planning, with a strong focus on collaboration and leadership development.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Director of UX Design

Current

Cox Automotive

Apr 2022 - Present (3 years 1 month)

Led UX for multiple platforms, established processes, and inspired a hybrid team of 13. Developed the first enterprise-wide dealer-facing design system and implemented a quantitative UX assessment program. Recognized as Rookie of The Year for 2022.

UX Design Team Leadership Design Systems User Research Product Roadmapping Cross Functional Collaboration Stakeholder Management Process Improvement Strategic Planning

Manager of Innovation

Walsworth Yearbooks

Apr 2009 - Apr 2022 (13 years)

Established the Innovation organization and managed product management processes. Led the redesign of a flagship software platform and implemented usability testing and customer experience measurement programs.

Product Management User Experience Design Innovation Usability Testing Market Analysis Team Management Strategic Planning Customer Research Roadmapping Process Improvement

Senior Manager, User-Centered Design

Sprint

Jan 2002 - Apr 2009 (7 years 3 months)

Managed design and research activities for product innovation. Led a team of designers, negotiated integration into development processes, and directed user experience for multimillion dollar initiatives.

User Centered Design Team Leadership Negotiation Product Innovation Stakeholder Engagement Design Overhaul Project Management Cross Functional Collaboration

Research Assistant

Carnegie Mellon University

Feb 1998 - Jan 2000 (1 year 11 months)

Assisted Dr. Klatzky in research within the Psychology department, contributing to various projects and gaining valuable experience in academic research methodologies.

Research Assistance Research Data Analysis Collaboration Psychology Communication Technical Writing Problem Solving Time Management

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Carnegie Mellon University

Master of Science, Human-Computer Interaction

1998 - 2001

Completed a Master of Science in Human-Computer Interaction, focusing on the design and evaluation of user interfaces and user experiences. Engaged in various projects that emphasized collaboration, human factors, and cognitive processes.

Carnegie Mellon University

Bachelor of Science, Technical Writing and Creative Writing

1996 - 2000

Earned a Bachelor of Science in Technical Writing and Creative Writing, which included coursework in communication design and pedagogy. Developed skills in technical documentation and creative expression.