Leading By Design

Leading by Design: Your Blueprint to Executive Design Leadership in Tech

Are you a creative tech leader who believes that exceptional design drives success but isn't sure how to reach and succeed at the executive level? This book is a practical guide to executive design leadership. With nearly thirty years of experience in interaction design, design management, and executive roles at startups and tech giants like Apple, Yahoo, and Meta, the author equips the next generation of design leaders with the confidence, influence, and preparation needed to navigate the unique challenges of C-suite leadership.

First, you'll learn how to secure the top role, covering everything from building a strong professional foundation to mastering the complexities of the tech hiring process. Then, in "How to Keep the Top Job," you'll find key strategies for demonstrating your value, measuring your impact, and developing a compelling personal brand that resonates at the executive level. You'll receive practical advice on positioning yourself strategically, building strong cross-departmental relationships, and leading effectively, including forming alliances, overcoming challenges, and motivating your team. The final chapters guide you on how to position your design team effectively and establish vital partnerships with key stakeholders.

This book offers a rare look into what it takes to reach the top. You'll get exclusive insights from six tech leaders as they share their journeys and the wisdom they've gained along the way. The lineup includes:

• Robert Girling, Co-Founder of Artefact
• Colin Grigson, Design Director at Remitly
• Julie Baher, VP of Digital Health at Myriad Genetics
• Phil Clevenger, VP of Product Experience at DocuSign
• Ajay Thakur, Head of Cognitive Computing at Uber
• Anshuman Kumar, SVP and Head of Design at Asana

Forget the long climb. This book is your shortcut to the executive table, providing the wisdom you need to elevate your influence, accelerate your growth, and build a legacy that defines your leadership.