Hello, I’m Sara!
I’m a Product Designer, eating and hiking my way through Seattle. I’m currently working at Kiva.org as a Senior Product Designer, working on products that make financial opportunities accessible to everyone.
ON DESIGN
I have a particular knack for untangling complex webs and balancing systems-level thinking with the nitty-gritty details.
Over the years, I’ve developed the mindset that good, life-bettering technology starts with a user-first company culture. To me, this includes ensuring cross-functional teams are speaking the same language, establishing systems that lead to holistic experiences, and elevating the importance of listening to users. Basically, the things that help people build better products for people.
Listen to a podcast I did with Usertesting about design at Kiva.org
ON LEADERSHIP
I believe that user-centric design decisions come from a trusting and safe working environment, so I strive to provide that to those I mentor and manage. As a leader, I value a balance between idealism and pragmatism. Applying this in practice has been equal parts humbling, nerve-wracking, and rewarding.
ON LEARNING
I’m well-travelled – I’ve visited over 50 countries – and enjoy learning about other cultures, especially if it involves eating and learning history.
Having lived in 3 countries, I’ve learned to traverse differing social values and customs that have made me adaptive and open-minded. It’s been a wonderful privilege to see the world, and I feel beyond lucky that I grew up in a household that considers travel necessary for growth. To this day, I’m a strong believer that the best ideas are formed by stepping away from the desk and talking to people with diverse perspectives.
Let’s chat
Send me a message or reach out to me on LinkedIn. Don’t forget to ask me about my dog, Pepper!
