I’m Heather Jansen. I’m an award-winning designer based in Oakland with over eight years of
experience in brand storytelling and collaborating across teams to design user-focused products.
I am brave and take risks, and doing so is the only reason I have gotten to where I am today. One example is my return
to design as my second career in 2013. I have also recently completed a UX Bootcamp to solidify my web expertise. Doing so
confirmed design is my thing, agnostic of form. I’m adaptable and know how to make a path forward.
One of my first jobs was answering 1-800 hotline calls for Ball Canning. It taught me how to problem-solve on the spot and
also gave me great empathy for users. When I worked internationally with National Geographic licensing brand and book publishing
rights in other languages, I carried that thinking with me. I lean on that knowledge now when I advocate for user-testing and research analyzation
that ensure products are made for the people using them.
I am a collaborator at heart. Working with others motivates me, but I also know from experience
that a genuine team effort makes a more significant product. I believe that helping others
succeed, having a positive outlook, and thinking of the big picture leads to more success for everyone.
I am a curious self-starter; I never stop learning and I’m good at it. I am fueled by figuring out how things work
and then finding ways to make them better. I love the discovery and development process of building a brand or experience.
Troubleshooting code with developers actually sparks joy. Time spent testing button states and interaction makes me tick.
The secret to my success as a designer is my diverse experience, a proven research and iteration process for achieving
results and my relationship building skills. I'm recognized as resourceful, a great mentor and group facilitator and a clear communicator.
I'm currently unlearning the use of a double space after punctuation. ;)
My mission: make awesome things and get stuff done.
What can we make together?
Fun Facts: I'm a Cubs fan, indie music nerd, and an Instagram photographer (much to the chagrin of my darkroom loving soul). I can't resist a triple layer chocolate cake. In my free time, I like to sew clothing, pet cats, and mentor others.
