DESIGNED FOR USE
Product Strategy & Design Leader
I got my start in digital product design over two decades ago. The potential of pushing the boundaries of product experiences in those early years set me on a career path that has led me to work with a number of innovative tech startups, some of the world’s most recognizable brands, and, in particular, some inspiring mission-driven companies. Along the way I have learned what I love, what I do well, and why I do it. My portfolio showcases the breadth of my past work experiences and what I'm most proud of.
Hi, I'm Charles Hi, I'm CharlesI’m a Massachusetts College of Art and Design alumnus and am currently the Head of UX and Design for the Openfit digital fitness platform where I oversee a team of talented designers passionate about the fitness and wellness space.
Previously I have worked for Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Thomson Reuters, and Sony Music Entertainment, as well as at award-winning creative agencies Lloyd Northover (London), Isobar (Boston), and RED Interactive (Los Angeles) where I led the product strategy and design of experiences for global brands such as adidas, Motorola, HBO and WW (formerly Weight Watchers).
I am a product designer at heart with formal training in physical product and industrial design. Being both analytical and pragmatic, my approach to design is rooted in human-centered design principles. My key passion lies in creating innovative solutions to complex problems through data-informed design methods.
Originally from South Africa, I moved to the U.K. after college before making my way to the States, living first in Boston and now in sunny SoCal.
Work
Product design spotlight & case studies. View all past work, case studies, and blog posts.
Reimagining the Scuba Training Experience
Case Study
Chasing Innovation, Part 2
Blog Post
Global brands I’ve worked with. View my full resume.
Recommendations
Words from former colleagues. All testimonials.
Charles not only has the ability to run a strong UX and visual design team but he has a strong appreciation for how the products should be built. He helped us reimagine our digital experience and scale design activities across the enterprise.
Christian Nimsky, Former Head of Product at PADI Worldwide
What truly sets Charles apart is his ability to translate concepts into actionable outputs for product design. What’s great about Charles is his passion for design and tech. He’s a top-notch designer, passionate thinker and an amazing strategist.
Brian Yoder, Director of User Experience at Autodesk
It is thoroughly refreshing to come across UX professionals that manage to execute their creative vision while still grounding their work with a data-driven approach. I was impressed by Charles’ sound and methodical mindset when building a design framework rooted in research and facts.
Paul Astrom, Senior Solutions Consultant at Adobe
Charles approaches UX problems with a level of positivity and precision that elevates him above the vast majority of designers I’ve worked with. He is a true product designer and sees the broader strategic goals without losing sight of the details.
Lee Hillman, Design Leadership at Amazon
Contact
I’m always interested in connecting with other product, strategy or design leaders and practitioners to share insights, build relationships, and explore opportunities.
Let’s connect Let’s connect