Hi, I'm Jessica Darby
A bit more about me with some Q+A!
With nearly 20 years of expertise in creating human-centered, functional, and visually compelling designs I take a holistic, empathetic approach and strong critical thinking skills that go beyond *just* designs. User experience is a company wide skill that sets a business up for success both internally and with it’s customers. It’s truly that important.
I am passionate about improving the quality of life in and out of the work place and feel very fortunate that the career path I have chosen has allowed me to do this on a professional level, as well as given me the perspective to apply my skills and thinking outside of the workplace.
User Experience is crucial because it shapes how people feel about a product or interaction, driving engagement, satisfaction, and loyalty. No product can succeed with out experience design in some way, shape or form. A strong user experience that is human centered helps builds trust, adds real value to user’s lives, and converts on business goals creating a sustainable business model for any company.
My project portfolio spans SaaS products, native apps, pioneering first-in-class applications, and responsive web design, all with a focus on creative direction, UX/UI, and human-centered design. I lead projects from inception through completion, successfully managing timelines, budgets, and cross-functional teams. I also bring extensive experience in client branding design, and marketing, creating cohesive and impactful company identities, along with knowledge in physical product design and print processes.
As a design manager who doesn’t believe in micro-managing, I empower my team to take ownership of their work and explore their unique strengths, providing guidance rather than constant oversight. I believe in creating a supportive space where team members feel motivated to push their creative boundaries and grow independently. While I trust my team’s expertise, I’m always ready to dive into the work alongside them when needed, whether brainstorming, problem-solving, or tackling complex challenges together. This balance lets us achieve great outcomes collaboratively without sacrificing anyone’s autonomy.
Culture is everything. Full stop.
While skills can be taught and careers can be developed, a person’s personality and alignment with team culture are something that I have seen cause conflict again and again if they are misaligned. Hiring people who genuinely fit the culture can make or break not only your team but also the company as a whole. I believe that a strong cultural fit is essential for fostering effective collaboration and for producing exceptional work—not just good, but truly great.
Recently I’ve been working on home updates, tackling much of the work myself. This journey has involved acquiring a range of new skills, such as sanding and painting trim, installing ceiling fans, replacing under-cabinet lighting and other electrical fixtures, as well as patching drywall with mudding, taping, and applying knockdown texture. Gaining these hands-on skills has been an empowering experience, allowing me to produce results that, I hope, approach a professional standard. I’m always eager to learn practical skills and broaden my capabilities whenever possible both personally and professionally.
One hobby outside of work is my equestrian life. I have two off track thoroughbreds that I have retrained and competed with in Dressage and Eventing. Horses are incredibly humbling, and require a relentless pursuit of learning, endless patience and perseverance, and the ability to constantly pivot and expect the unexpected. I am fortunate to be able to create such an incredible bond with these amazing animals that has benefitted every area of my life.