Open to opportunities

samantha blady

@samanthablady

Message

I am an aspiring product designer focused on user empathy.

South Africa

Message

What I'm looking for

I seek an Apprentice Designer role on a collaborative, user-focused team where I can apply product management and UX principles, grow through mentorship, and contribute to intuitive, customer-centered products.

I am an analytical and creative problem solver with a Diploma in Product Management and a strong background in customer-centric roles. My experience blends hands-on user observation with formal coursework in product lifecycle and UX principles.

As a small business owner since 2018, I managed projects end-to-end—sourcing, branding, operations—and used customer feedback and behavior analysis to improve product offerings and store layout, driving better user experiences and sales.

Earlier roles as a shop attendant and caregiver refined my customer empathy, needs analysis, and communication skills; I observed user flow, solved immediate problems, and adapted quickly to new products and systems.

I am self-motivated, a quick learner, and skilled in project management and cross-functional communication. I am eager to contribute as an Apprentice Designer, apply my product management knowledge, and help build intuitive, user-centered products.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Small Business Owner

Current

Self-Employed

Jan 2018 - Present (8 years 5 months)

Owned and operated a retail business, analyzing customer behavior to inform product selection and store layout which improved sales and customer experience. Managed end-to-end projects including sourcing, branding, and operations.

Project Management Customer Research Branding Operations Management Merchandising Customer Service User Research

Shop Attendant

Marsavive Fruit and Veg Shop

Jan 2015 - Nov 2017 (2 years 10 months)

Communicated with diverse customers to identify needs and implemented layout and service recommendations that improved the shopping experience. Observed customer flow and adapted product offerings to increase customer satisfaction.

Customer Service Customer Empathy Retail Operations Merchandising Communication Problem Solving

Caregiver

Vukuzimele Elderly Home

Jan 2012 - Sep 2017 (5 years 8 months)

Provided personalized care and problem-solved daily challenges to improve client wellbeing and routines. Maintained high empathy and attention to detail while coordinating care activities.

Caregiving Empathy Personal Care Time Management Communication Problem Solving