Colleague spotlight: meet Dan Summerill
In July’s colleague spotlight, Dan Summerill, UX Lead at Leighton shares insights into his role, his journey in user experience, and what keeps him inspired beyond the screen.
Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities as a UX Lead?
As a UX Lead, I am responsible for shaping and guiding our UX practice – supporting our designers in their growth, defining what good UX looks like within the business, and helping to embed user-centred thinking across both our team and customer projects. A big part of my role is balancing leadership with hands-on design work. I work closely with our designers to mentor, align on best practices, and create a shared vision for UX at Leighton. At the same time, I’m actively involved in delivery, providing strategic consultancy support to both Greggs and Hays Travel. Since our designers are embedded across multiple client teams, it’s essential to maintain cohesion and ensure we’re consistently delivering quality experiences.
How long have you been with Leighton and what drew you here initially?
I’ve been with Leighton for almost six years now. When I joined, there wasn’t an established UX function or even a dedicated design team in place, which for me, was actually a huge part of the appeal. At that time, Leighton was in the early stages of building an internal HR SaaS product, and it was clear there was an opportunity to help shape not just the product, but the design capability around it. What really stood out during the interview process was the clear vision Leighton had, not only for that particular product, but for the kind of work and culture they were building for the future. From my very first conversations, I had a strong connection with the people I spoke to. It felt like we were aligned in our thinking around design, collaboration, and impact. I was excited by the chance to help lay the foundations of UX at Leighton, to influence how design would be valued and integrated, and to make a meaningful contribution to a growing function from the ground up.
What inspired you to pursue a career into UX?
I’ve always been quite a creative person, even from an early age. I loved drawing, building things, and coming up with ideas. I remember designing my own pair of football boots as a kid, that moment really stuck with me as it was one of the first times I realised how much I enjoyed thinking visually and creatively. That early curiosity grew into a passion for design. I began my career as a graphic designer at an immersive experience agency. It was there that my interest in design really took shape – not just from a visual perspective but from a user one too. I become fascinated by how people interact with both physical and digital environments, and how thoughtful design can enhance those experiences. That role helped me develop a true design mindset that’s centred on the end user. It taught me to constantly consider how something looks, feels, and functions, how design choices can directly shape the way people experience a product or space. That user-focused thinking has stayed with me ever since and continues to shape the way I approach design today.
What are the most important skills you’ve had to develop in your role?
Strategic thinking has become increasingly important in my role. While it might sound obvious, stepping into a leadership position has required me to think more critically about how design decisions align with broader business goals, impact cross-functional teams, and contribute to long-term outcomes. Designers inherently need a strategic mindset, but as a UX Lead, that thinking needs to be more intentional and forward-thinking. It’s about having a clear vision and being able to communicate effectively.
Stakeholder management has also taken on great significance. While it’s always been a core part of UX, in a leadership role, there’s an increased expectation to build trust, influence decisions, and ensure that design is championed across the organisation.
That said, the skills I’ve developed most in this role are coaching and mentoring. As our design team grows, it’s become essential to balance hands-on delivery with supporting and empowering others. Being available to guide, answer questions, and provide reassurance has been just as important as the design work itself it’s about creating an environment where others can thrive, feel supported, and grow in their own careers.
What project or accomplishment are you most proud of in your career to date?
I’m proud to have worked with brands like Barbie and Google early in my career. Collaborating with such globally recognised names at that stage gave me invaluable experience and confidence. More recently however one of my standout accomplishments has been a recent project with Greggs. At the outset, it felt like a significant challenge and a really complex piece of work with high expectations. But we were able to deliver not only to scope, but ahead of schedule. For me, being able to step in, establish clear processes, and introduce effective ways of working that helped make that success possible was a real personal achievement.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The variety of work and the fact that no two days are ever the same. Whilst it can sometimes be challenging, working across two customer projects and managing our growing team of designers means priorities can shift almost hourly, but that keeps things dynamic and engaging. I also enjoy working with a wide range of stakeholders across different parts of a business, helping to bridge the gap between users’ needs and strategic goals. Finally, I find the research aspect of the role incredibly rewarding. Getting under the skin of user behaviours, uncovering insights, and using that to inform design decisions where the real value of UX comes to life. It’s where creativity meets evidence, and I think that’s a vital part of building experiences that truly work for people.
What’s one thing about Leighton that stands out to you?
That’s an easy one, the willingness of everybody to help. No matter the challenge or situation, there’s always someone ready to lend a hand, share their knowledge, or go the extra mile to support what I’m working on. It’s not just about being approachable, there’s a genuine culture of collaboration here and that makes a real difference. I think that’s what makes Leighton truly unique. There’s a shared sense of purpose and a strong team mentality, where people are invested not just in their own work, but in each other’s success. It creates an environment where you feel supported, trusted, and empowered to do your best.
What’s your favourite memory or moment from your time at Leighton so far?
One of the standout moments from at my time at Leighton so far was being given the opportunity to lead a full UX deep dive, where I was able to explore end-to-end user journeys, reviewing how content and navigation are structured. This was a significant milestone because it was the first time I’d been able to approach UX as a dedicated, standalone piece of work, not just a step in a broader delivery process.
What made it particularly meaningful was that I wasn’t rushed. The project was treated with the time and focus it needed, which allowed me to really demonstrate the full value UX can bring when it’s given space to be done properly. In a lot of the places I’ve worked previously, and even in some client environments today, UX is often seen as just one component of a much larger workflow. It can easily get diluted or overlooked.
This project gave me the chance to challenge that mindset and show what a well-executed, user-led discovery and design process can achieve. Being able to influence that thinking and see the impact first-hand made it a real highlight in my time at Leighton so far.
What’s one thing you want to accomplish in your career that you haven’t yet?
I’d love to be in a position where I can embed a data-driven UX approach within teams or organisations. One of the biggest challenges I’ve seen is that UX is often viewed purely through a visual lens, focusing on how things look rather than how they function or perform for users. My goal is to shift that perception by applying my skills and experience to highlight the value of insight-led design. By embedding myself within a business, I want to help uncover and showcase the often overlooked, analytical side of UX, one that drives smarter decisions and delivers more meaningful experiences.
What’s a fun fact about you that most colleagues might not know?
Swapping my soft hands for manual labour, I successfully renovated my house (with a bit of help from my dad) and am now tackling the garden, with plans to build an outdoor kitchen. It’s all been self-taught, too thanks to countless YouTube videos and the power of Google.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy running, taking my dog out for walks, cooking (Michelin still haven’t rung me yet) and spending time with my son.
What’s something people might not know about your role?
UX isn’t just about what you see on the surface, it involves research, data, and a solid understanding of user needs, constraints, and business goals. Often, when people think of UX, they focus solely on the visual aspects, but true UX is about how something works just as much as how it looks.
What’s the best piece of career advice you have ever received?
Earlier in my career I was told by a previous manager to “listen more than you speak.” Interestingly in my role that’s the most valuable piece of advice that I could ever have been given, as I’m constantly listening to user and stakeholder needs without muddying the water with jargon.
What advice would you give someone starting in this industry?
Take feedback without taking it personally. UX in inherently collaborative, and every piece of feedback is an opportunity to improve or adapt your work, it’s never a reflection of you as a person. Designers often take pride in what they create so it’s important to separate yourself from the work and understand that feedback is about making the end product better, not criticising you.
And finally, if you don’t know the answer to something, ask. Even if it feels like a basic question, asking early can save you a lot of time, stress, and rework later on. No one expects you to know everything, and curiosity is a strength in this field.
In July’s colleague spotlight, Dan Summerill, UX Lead at Leighton shares insights into his role, his journey in user experience, and what keeps him inspired beyond the screen.
Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities as a UX Lead?
As a UX Lead, I am responsible for shaping and guiding our UX practice – supporting our designers in their growth, defining what good UX looks like within the business, and helping to embed user-centred thinking across both our team and customer projects. A big part of my role is balancing leadership with hands-on design work. I work closely with our designers to mentor, align on best practices, and create a shared vision for UX at Leighton. At the same time, I’m actively involved in delivery, providing strategic consultancy support to both Greggs and Hays Travel. Since our designers are embedded across multiple client teams, it’s essential to maintain cohesion and ensure we’re consistently delivering quality experiences.
How long have you been with Leighton and what drew you here initially?
I’ve been with Leighton for almost six years now. When I joined, there wasn’t an established UX function or even a dedicated design team in place, which for me, was actually a huge part of the appeal. At that time, Leighton was in the early stages of building an internal HR SaaS product, and it was clear there was an opportunity to help shape not just the product, but the design capability around it. What really stood out during the interview process was the clear vision Leighton had, not only for that particular product, but for the kind of work and culture they were building for the future. From my very first conversations, I had a strong connection with the people I spoke to. It felt like we were aligned in our thinking around design, collaboration, and impact. I was excited by the chance to help lay the foundations of UX at Leighton, to influence how design would be valued and integrated, and to make a meaningful contribution to a growing function from the ground up.
What inspired you to pursue a career into UX?
I’ve always been quite a creative person, even from an early age. I loved drawing, building things, and coming up with ideas. I remember designing my own pair of football boots as a kid, that moment really stuck with me as it was one of the first times I realised how much I enjoyed thinking visually and creatively. That early curiosity grew into a passion for design. I began my career as a graphic designer at an immersive experience agency. It was there that my interest in design really took shape – not just from a visual perspective but from a user one too. I become fascinated by how people interact with both physical and digital environments, and how thoughtful design can enhance those experiences. That role helped me develop a true design mindset that’s centred on the end user. It taught me to constantly consider how something looks, feels, and functions, how design choices can directly shape the way people experience a product or space. That user-focused thinking has stayed with me ever since and continues to shape the way I approach design today.
What are the most important skills you’ve had to develop in your role?
Strategic thinking has become increasingly important in my role. While it might sound obvious, stepping into a leadership position has required me to think more critically about how design decisions align with broader business goals, impact cross-functional teams, and contribute to long-term outcomes. Designers inherently need a strategic mindset, but as a UX Lead, that thinking needs to be more intentional and forward-thinking. It’s about having a clear vision and being able to communicate effectively.
Stakeholder management has also taken on great significance. While it’s always been a core part of UX, in a leadership role, there’s an increased expectation to build trust, influence decisions, and ensure that design is championed across the organisation.
That said, the skills I’ve developed most in this role are coaching and mentoring. As our design team grows, it’s become essential to balance hands-on delivery with supporting and empowering others. Being available to guide, answer questions, and provide reassurance has been just as important as the design work itself it’s about creating an environment where others can thrive, feel supported, and grow in their own careers.
What project or accomplishment are you most proud of in your career to date?
I’m proud to have worked with brands like Barbie and Google early in my career. Collaborating with such globally recognised names at that stage gave me invaluable experience and confidence. More recently however one of my standout accomplishments has been a recent project with Greggs. At the outset, it felt like a significant challenge and a really complex piece of work with high expectations. But we were able to deliver not only to scope, but ahead of schedule. For me, being able to step in, establish clear processes, and introduce effective ways of working that helped make that success possible was a real personal achievement.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The variety of work and the fact that no two days are ever the same. Whilst it can sometimes be challenging, working across two customer projects and managing our growing team of designers means priorities can shift almost hourly, but that keeps things dynamic and engaging. I also enjoy working with a wide range of stakeholders across different parts of a business, helping to bridge the gap between users’ needs and strategic goals. Finally, I find the research aspect of the role incredibly rewarding. Getting under the skin of user behaviours, uncovering insights, and using that to inform design decisions where the real value of UX comes to life. It’s where creativity meets evidence, and I think that’s a vital part of building experiences that truly work for people.
What’s one thing about Leighton that stands out to you?
That’s an easy one, the willingness of everybody to help. No matter the challenge or situation, there’s always someone ready to lend a hand, share their knowledge, or go the extra mile to support what I’m working on. It’s not just about being approachable, there’s a genuine culture of collaboration here and that makes a real difference. I think that’s what makes Leighton truly unique. There’s a shared sense of purpose and a strong team mentality, where people are invested not just in their own work, but in each other’s success. It creates an environment where you feel supported, trusted, and empowered to do your best.
What’s your favourite memory or moment from your time at Leighton so far?
One of the standout moments from at my time at Leighton so far was being given the opportunity to lead a full UX deep dive, where I was able to explore end-to-end user journeys, reviewing how content and navigation are structured. This was a significant milestone because it was the first time I’d been able to approach UX as a dedicated, standalone piece of work, not just a step in a broader delivery process.
What made it particularly meaningful was that I wasn’t rushed. The project was treated with the time and focus it needed, which allowed me to really demonstrate the full value UX can bring when it’s given space to be done properly. In a lot of the places I’ve worked previously, and even in some client environments today, UX is often seen as just one component of a much larger workflow. It can easily get diluted or overlooked.
This project gave me the chance to challenge that mindset and show what a well-executed, user-led discovery and design process can achieve. Being able to influence that thinking and see the impact first-hand made it a real highlight in my time at Leighton so far.
What’s one thing you want to accomplish in your career that you haven’t yet?
I’d love to be in a position where I can embed a data-driven UX approach within teams or organisations. One of the biggest challenges I’ve seen is that UX is often viewed purely through a visual lens, focusing on how things look rather than how they function or perform for users. My goal is to shift that perception by applying my skills and experience to highlight the value of insight-led design. By embedding myself within a business, I want to help uncover and showcase the often overlooked, analytical side of UX, one that drives smarter decisions and delivers more meaningful experiences.
What’s a fun fact about you that most colleagues might not know?
Swapping my soft hands for manual labour, I successfully renovated my house (with a bit of help from my dad) and am now tackling the garden, with plans to build an outdoor kitchen. It’s all been self-taught, too thanks to countless YouTube videos and the power of Google.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy running, taking my dog out for walks, cooking (Michelin still haven’t rung me yet) and spending time with my son.
What’s something people might not know about your role?
UX isn’t just about what you see on the surface, it involves research, data, and a solid understanding of user needs, constraints, and business goals. Often, when people think of UX, they focus solely on the visual aspects, but true UX is about how something works just as much as how it looks.
What’s the best piece of career advice you have ever received?
Earlier in my career I was told by a previous manager to “listen more than you speak.” Interestingly in my role that’s the most valuable piece of advice that I could ever have been given, as I’m constantly listening to user and stakeholder needs without muddying the water with jargon.
What advice would you give someone starting in this industry?
Take feedback without taking it personally. UX in inherently collaborative, and every piece of feedback is an opportunity to improve or adapt your work, it’s never a reflection of you as a person. Designers often take pride in what they create so it’s important to separate yourself from the work and understand that feedback is about making the end product better, not criticising you.
And finally, if you don’t know the answer to something, ask. Even if it feels like a basic question, asking early can save you a lot of time, stress, and rework later on. No one expects you to know everything, and curiosity is a strength in this field.
In July’s colleague spotlight, Dan Summerill, UX Lead at Leighton shares insights into his role, his journey in user experience, and what keeps him inspired beyond the screen.
Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities as a UX Lead?
As a UX Lead, I am responsible for shaping and guiding our UX practice – supporting our designers in their growth, defining what good UX looks like within the business, and helping to embed user-centred thinking across both our team and customer projects. A big part of my role is balancing leadership with hands-on design work. I work closely with our designers to mentor, align on best practices, and create a shared vision for UX at Leighton. At the same time, I’m actively involved in delivery, providing strategic consultancy support to both Greggs and Hays Travel. Since our designers are embedded across multiple client teams, it’s essential to maintain cohesion and ensure we’re consistently delivering quality experiences.
How long have you been with Leighton and what drew you here initially?
I’ve been with Leighton for almost six years now. When I joined, there wasn’t an established UX function or even a dedicated design team in place, which for me, was actually a huge part of the appeal. At that time, Leighton was in the early stages of building an internal HR SaaS product, and it was clear there was an opportunity to help shape not just the product, but the design capability around it. What really stood out during the interview process was the clear vision Leighton had, not only for that particular product, but for the kind of work and culture they were building for the future. From my very first conversations, I had a strong connection with the people I spoke to. It felt like we were aligned in our thinking around design, collaboration, and impact. I was excited by the chance to help lay the foundations of UX at Leighton, to influence how design would be valued and integrated, and to make a meaningful contribution to a growing function from the ground up.
What inspired you to pursue a career into UX?
I’ve always been quite a creative person, even from an early age. I loved drawing, building things, and coming up with ideas. I remember designing my own pair of football boots as a kid, that moment really stuck with me as it was one of the first times I realised how much I enjoyed thinking visually and creatively. That early curiosity grew into a passion for design. I began my career as a graphic designer at an immersive experience agency. It was there that my interest in design really took shape – not just from a visual perspective but from a user one too. I become fascinated by how people interact with both physical and digital environments, and how thoughtful design can enhance those experiences. That role helped me develop a true design mindset that’s centred on the end user. It taught me to constantly consider how something looks, feels, and functions, how design choices can directly shape the way people experience a product or space. That user-focused thinking has stayed with me ever since and continues to shape the way I approach design today.
What are the most important skills you’ve had to develop in your role?
Strategic thinking has become increasingly important in my role. While it might sound obvious, stepping into a leadership position has required me to think more critically about how design decisions align with broader business goals, impact cross-functional teams, and contribute to long-term outcomes. Designers inherently need a strategic mindset, but as a UX Lead, that thinking needs to be more intentional and forward-thinking. It’s about having a clear vision and being able to communicate effectively.
Stakeholder management has also taken on great significance. While it’s always been a core part of UX, in a leadership role, there’s an increased expectation to build trust, influence decisions, and ensure that design is championed across the organisation.
That said, the skills I’ve developed most in this role are coaching and mentoring. As our design team grows, it’s become essential to balance hands-on delivery with supporting and empowering others. Being available to guide, answer questions, and provide reassurance has been just as important as the design work itself it’s about creating an environment where others can thrive, feel supported, and grow in their own careers.
What project or accomplishment are you most proud of in your career to date?
I’m proud to have worked with brands like Barbie and Google early in my career. Collaborating with such globally recognised names at that stage gave me invaluable experience and confidence. More recently however one of my standout accomplishments has been a recent project with Greggs. At the outset, it felt like a significant challenge and a really complex piece of work with high expectations. But we were able to deliver not only to scope, but ahead of schedule. For me, being able to step in, establish clear processes, and introduce effective ways of working that helped make that success possible was a real personal achievement.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The variety of work and the fact that no two days are ever the same. Whilst it can sometimes be challenging, working across two customer projects and managing our growing team of designers means priorities can shift almost hourly, but that keeps things dynamic and engaging. I also enjoy working with a wide range of stakeholders across different parts of a business, helping to bridge the gap between users’ needs and strategic goals. Finally, I find the research aspect of the role incredibly rewarding. Getting under the skin of user behaviours, uncovering insights, and using that to inform design decisions where the real value of UX comes to life. It’s where creativity meets evidence, and I think that’s a vital part of building experiences that truly work for people.
What’s one thing about Leighton that stands out to you?
That’s an easy one, the willingness of everybody to help. No matter the challenge or situation, there’s always someone ready to lend a hand, share their knowledge, or go the extra mile to support what I’m working on. It’s not just about being approachable, there’s a genuine culture of collaboration here and that makes a real difference. I think that’s what makes Leighton truly unique. There’s a shared sense of purpose and a strong team mentality, where people are invested not just in their own work, but in each other’s success. It creates an environment where you feel supported, trusted, and empowered to do your best.
What’s your favourite memory or moment from your time at Leighton so far?
One of the standout moments from at my time at Leighton so far was being given the opportunity to lead a full UX deep dive, where I was able to explore end-to-end user journeys, reviewing how content and navigation are structured. This was a significant milestone because it was the first time I’d been able to approach UX as a dedicated, standalone piece of work, not just a step in a broader delivery process.
What made it particularly meaningful was that I wasn’t rushed. The project was treated with the time and focus it needed, which allowed me to really demonstrate the full value UX can bring when it’s given space to be done properly. In a lot of the places I’ve worked previously, and even in some client environments today, UX is often seen as just one component of a much larger workflow. It can easily get diluted or overlooked.
This project gave me the chance to challenge that mindset and show what a well-executed, user-led discovery and design process can achieve. Being able to influence that thinking and see the impact first-hand made it a real highlight in my time at Leighton so far.
What’s one thing you want to accomplish in your career that you haven’t yet?
I’d love to be in a position where I can embed a data-driven UX approach within teams or organisations. One of the biggest challenges I’ve seen is that UX is often viewed purely through a visual lens, focusing on how things look rather than how they function or perform for users. My goal is to shift that perception by applying my skills and experience to highlight the value of insight-led design. By embedding myself within a business, I want to help uncover and showcase the often overlooked, analytical side of UX, one that drives smarter decisions and delivers more meaningful experiences.
What’s a fun fact about you that most colleagues might not know?
Swapping my soft hands for manual labour, I successfully renovated my house (with a bit of help from my dad) and am now tackling the garden, with plans to build an outdoor kitchen. It’s all been self-taught, too thanks to countless YouTube videos and the power of Google.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy running, taking my dog out for walks, cooking (Michelin still haven’t rung me yet) and spending time with my son.
What’s something people might not know about your role?
UX isn’t just about what you see on the surface, it involves research, data, and a solid understanding of user needs, constraints, and business goals. Often, when people think of UX, they focus solely on the visual aspects, but true UX is about how something works just as much as how it looks.
What’s the best piece of career advice you have ever received?
Earlier in my career I was told by a previous manager to “listen more than you speak.” Interestingly in my role that’s the most valuable piece of advice that I could ever have been given, as I’m constantly listening to user and stakeholder needs without muddying the water with jargon.
What advice would you give someone starting in this industry?
Take feedback without taking it personally. UX in inherently collaborative, and every piece of feedback is an opportunity to improve or adapt your work, it’s never a reflection of you as a person. Designers often take pride in what they create so it’s important to separate yourself from the work and understand that feedback is about making the end product better, not criticising you.
And finally, if you don’t know the answer to something, ask. Even if it feels like a basic question, asking early can save you a lot of time, stress, and rework later on. No one expects you to know everything, and curiosity is a strength in this field.
In July’s colleague spotlight, Dan Summerill, UX Lead at Leighton shares insights into his role, his journey in user experience, and what keeps him inspired beyond the screen.
Can you tell us about your role and responsibilities as a UX Lead?
As a UX Lead, I am responsible for shaping and guiding our UX practice – supporting our designers in their growth, defining what good UX looks like within the business, and helping to embed user-centred thinking across both our team and customer projects. A big part of my role is balancing leadership with hands-on design work. I work closely with our designers to mentor, align on best practices, and create a shared vision for UX at Leighton. At the same time, I’m actively involved in delivery, providing strategic consultancy support to both Greggs and Hays Travel. Since our designers are embedded across multiple client teams, it’s essential to maintain cohesion and ensure we’re consistently delivering quality experiences.
How long have you been with Leighton and what drew you here initially?
I’ve been with Leighton for almost six years now. When I joined, there wasn’t an established UX function or even a dedicated design team in place, which for me, was actually a huge part of the appeal. At that time, Leighton was in the early stages of building an internal HR SaaS product, and it was clear there was an opportunity to help shape not just the product, but the design capability around it. What really stood out during the interview process was the clear vision Leighton had, not only for that particular product, but for the kind of work and culture they were building for the future. From my very first conversations, I had a strong connection with the people I spoke to. It felt like we were aligned in our thinking around design, collaboration, and impact. I was excited by the chance to help lay the foundations of UX at Leighton, to influence how design would be valued and integrated, and to make a meaningful contribution to a growing function from the ground up.
What inspired you to pursue a career into UX?
I’ve always been quite a creative person, even from an early age. I loved drawing, building things, and coming up with ideas. I remember designing my own pair of football boots as a kid, that moment really stuck with me as it was one of the first times I realised how much I enjoyed thinking visually and creatively. That early curiosity grew into a passion for design. I began my career as a graphic designer at an immersive experience agency. It was there that my interest in design really took shape – not just from a visual perspective but from a user one too. I become fascinated by how people interact with both physical and digital environments, and how thoughtful design can enhance those experiences. That role helped me develop a true design mindset that’s centred on the end user. It taught me to constantly consider how something looks, feels, and functions, how design choices can directly shape the way people experience a product or space. That user-focused thinking has stayed with me ever since and continues to shape the way I approach design today.
What are the most important skills you’ve had to develop in your role?
Strategic thinking has become increasingly important in my role. While it might sound obvious, stepping into a leadership position has required me to think more critically about how design decisions align with broader business goals, impact cross-functional teams, and contribute to long-term outcomes. Designers inherently need a strategic mindset, but as a UX Lead, that thinking needs to be more intentional and forward-thinking. It’s about having a clear vision and being able to communicate effectively.
Stakeholder management has also taken on great significance. While it’s always been a core part of UX, in a leadership role, there’s an increased expectation to build trust, influence decisions, and ensure that design is championed across the organisation.
That said, the skills I’ve developed most in this role are coaching and mentoring. As our design team grows, it’s become essential to balance hands-on delivery with supporting and empowering others. Being available to guide, answer questions, and provide reassurance has been just as important as the design work itself it’s about creating an environment where others can thrive, feel supported, and grow in their own careers.
What project or accomplishment are you most proud of in your career to date?
I’m proud to have worked with brands like Barbie and Google early in my career. Collaborating with such globally recognised names at that stage gave me invaluable experience and confidence. More recently however one of my standout accomplishments has been a recent project with Greggs. At the outset, it felt like a significant challenge and a really complex piece of work with high expectations. But we were able to deliver not only to scope, but ahead of schedule. For me, being able to step in, establish clear processes, and introduce effective ways of working that helped make that success possible was a real personal achievement.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The variety of work and the fact that no two days are ever the same. Whilst it can sometimes be challenging, working across two customer projects and managing our growing team of designers means priorities can shift almost hourly, but that keeps things dynamic and engaging. I also enjoy working with a wide range of stakeholders across different parts of a business, helping to bridge the gap between users’ needs and strategic goals. Finally, I find the research aspect of the role incredibly rewarding. Getting under the skin of user behaviours, uncovering insights, and using that to inform design decisions where the real value of UX comes to life. It’s where creativity meets evidence, and I think that’s a vital part of building experiences that truly work for people.
What’s one thing about Leighton that stands out to you?
That’s an easy one, the willingness of everybody to help. No matter the challenge or situation, there’s always someone ready to lend a hand, share their knowledge, or go the extra mile to support what I’m working on. It’s not just about being approachable, there’s a genuine culture of collaboration here and that makes a real difference. I think that’s what makes Leighton truly unique. There’s a shared sense of purpose and a strong team mentality, where people are invested not just in their own work, but in each other’s success. It creates an environment where you feel supported, trusted, and empowered to do your best.
What’s your favourite memory or moment from your time at Leighton so far?
One of the standout moments from at my time at Leighton so far was being given the opportunity to lead a full UX deep dive, where I was able to explore end-to-end user journeys, reviewing how content and navigation are structured. This was a significant milestone because it was the first time I’d been able to approach UX as a dedicated, standalone piece of work, not just a step in a broader delivery process.
What made it particularly meaningful was that I wasn’t rushed. The project was treated with the time and focus it needed, which allowed me to really demonstrate the full value UX can bring when it’s given space to be done properly. In a lot of the places I’ve worked previously, and even in some client environments today, UX is often seen as just one component of a much larger workflow. It can easily get diluted or overlooked.
This project gave me the chance to challenge that mindset and show what a well-executed, user-led discovery and design process can achieve. Being able to influence that thinking and see the impact first-hand made it a real highlight in my time at Leighton so far.
What’s one thing you want to accomplish in your career that you haven’t yet?
I’d love to be in a position where I can embed a data-driven UX approach within teams or organisations. One of the biggest challenges I’ve seen is that UX is often viewed purely through a visual lens, focusing on how things look rather than how they function or perform for users. My goal is to shift that perception by applying my skills and experience to highlight the value of insight-led design. By embedding myself within a business, I want to help uncover and showcase the often overlooked, analytical side of UX, one that drives smarter decisions and delivers more meaningful experiences.
What’s a fun fact about you that most colleagues might not know?
Swapping my soft hands for manual labour, I successfully renovated my house (with a bit of help from my dad) and am now tackling the garden, with plans to build an outdoor kitchen. It’s all been self-taught, too thanks to countless YouTube videos and the power of Google.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy running, taking my dog out for walks, cooking (Michelin still haven’t rung me yet) and spending time with my son.
What’s something people might not know about your role?
UX isn’t just about what you see on the surface, it involves research, data, and a solid understanding of user needs, constraints, and business goals. Often, when people think of UX, they focus solely on the visual aspects, but true UX is about how something works just as much as how it looks.
What’s the best piece of career advice you have ever received?
Earlier in my career I was told by a previous manager to “listen more than you speak.” Interestingly in my role that’s the most valuable piece of advice that I could ever have been given, as I’m constantly listening to user and stakeholder needs without muddying the water with jargon.
What advice would you give someone starting in this industry?
Take feedback without taking it personally. UX in inherently collaborative, and every piece of feedback is an opportunity to improve or adapt your work, it’s never a reflection of you as a person. Designers often take pride in what they create so it’s important to separate yourself from the work and understand that feedback is about making the end product better, not criticising you.
And finally, if you don’t know the answer to something, ask. Even if it feels like a basic question, asking early can save you a lot of time, stress, and rework later on. No one expects you to know everything, and curiosity is a strength in this field.
