Hi, I'm Leon
My path to leadership began with a passion for creativity. I started in graphic design, wandered into web and full-stack development, and eventually found my home in product design and UX.
What stayed constant was curiosity — using data to inform decisions, analyzing patterns in user behaviour, and pushing for strategies that make products both useful and meaningful.
Over time, as I worked with diverse teams, I realized my real calling wasn’t just in making products, but in creating environments where talented people thrive, solve real problems, and grow together.
I often say I work where design meets engineering. But really, it’s at the intersection of people, technology, and impact.
On Leadership
For me, leadership starts with trust. It’s the foundation everything else is built on: authenticity, empathy, and clarity.
That looks like:
- Open communication and space for questions
- Encouraging ideas, even when they fail
- Removing blockers so teams can focus on what matters
- Championing growth and creating psychological safety
I still get hands-on when it makes sense — especially with AI and new tools — so I can lead with informed empathy and stay sharp in a rapidly changing industry.
On AI
I see AI as an amplifier, not a replacement. Right now, its real value is in extending our thinking, accelerating exploration, and freeing up time for deeper human connection.
In my work, I use AI tools to prototype faster, synthesize research, and test new interactions — but always with a critical lens. AI can inform decisions, but it can’t replace judgment.
This is how I see it today, and likely for the next few years. I’ll keep revisiting it as the technology and how we use it evolves.
On Core Values
I’ve had a piece of paper pinned to my wall, filled with notes and principles. Iterated over time, they’ve become the values I live and work by:
Authenticity
Staying true to myself, encouraging genuine dialogue, and never shying away from honest feedback.
Empathy
Truly understanding the people behind the screens — both users and colleagues — and making sure their voices shape our direction.
Integrity
Acting ethically and transparently, holding myself and my team accountable to do what’s right.
Curiosity
Embracing new ideas, data, and technologies as opportunities to learn, adapt, and grow.
These aren’t buzzwords. They’re my compass for how I collaborate, make decisions, and recover from mistakes.
On Experience
- Current: Lead Product Designer, Dye & Durham
Elevated UX maturity across global legal-tech products by driving design system adoption, embedding data-driven practices, and coaching teams to deliver customer-centric experiences. - Previous: Lead Developer, Beginning Boutique
Led a small team through rapid global e-commerce growth, cutting page load from 4s to 0.3s, streamlining order and warehouse systems, and delivering creative campaigns that fueled brand expansion.
(See my Resume or Case Studies for more detail.)
On A Personal Note
At the time of writing (late 2025), I’ve stepped back from most social media to focus on family, growth and deep work. This site is where I’m sharing again — reflections on leadership, UX, and how the industry is shifting.
Away from the desk, you’ll usually find me outdoors on multi-day hikes, tinkering with DIY projects at home, or spending time with my family. Those moments keep me grounded and remind me why authenticity and balance matter just as much as strategy and design.
And if you’ve made it this far, maybe we should connect. Find me on LinkedIn, or drop me a message.