Why I wrote this guide.
For more than 20 years I sat on the hiring side, most recently as VP of UX at JPMorgan Chase. Again and again, I watched strong designers lose a director role in the interview, when everything they needed to win it was already in their own work. They just didn’t know what the room was listening for.
This guide is what I’d tell you over coffee before your next round. And when you want someone in your corner, I coach experienced designers through the jump into leadership. Some of my past clients now lead teams at Amazon, Meta, Spotify and Google.
“Marina helped me get interview-ready, coaching me on how to authentically tell my story and handle the tough ‘why the switch?’ questions.”
Coaching client, Design Leader at a global investment bank
“There was no generic advice. Marina gave sharp insights and frameworks I could apply right away.”
Coaching client, Design Leader at a global productivity app
“I have worked with several coaches and Marina is the first to really cut to the chase.”
Coaching client, Lead Product Designer at a Big Tech company
“Marina put so much work in, to figure me out professionally and to see things about me that I could not see in myself.”
Coaching client, Lead UX Architect at a UK engineering institution
“Marina’s encouragement and swift support rebuilt my confidence during challenging times and fueled my career progress.”
Coaching client, Design Leader at a consumer tech company
“Marina helped me get to the root of my problem and showed me the direction I needed to take.”
Coaching client, UX Strategist at a startup