Jenn Upton
 
 

from myspace layout designer to design leader

When I was a kid, I spent my weekends designing webpage layouts for my online digital Neopets. And then a few years later, social media became the next big thing and I spent even more time on the family computer playing around with Myspace layouts, custom blog layouts, and figuring out how to use Photoshop to apply to art school for Graphic Design.

And as I went through college, I convinced myself that I’d get into print design and media, only to find upon graduation post-recession that those jobs were few and far between, leading me into digital agencies. I turned my print design skills into digital design skills, and then as my job started to change, taught myself about interface and experience design tools where I’ve now found a sweet spot in product design. Now I get to manage a small group of designers on a large team while still being really close to project work.

When I’m not at my desk, I’m usually in the kitchen trying new recipes, scribbling in my planner, or goofing around with my family. Currently, I’m based in Charlottesville, Virginia with my husband, daughter, and rescue dog.

 
 
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resumé

I’m a print designer turned product designer with a unique blend of humor, empathy, and creativity. I’ve spent the last decade championing for the best and most accessible user experiences that still meet business goals while also helping to grow some of the most talented designers.

Experience

Insomniac Design
Design Director
October 2023 to present

WillowTree
Design Director
July 2022 to October 2023

Senior Product Designer
2019 – July 2022

DMI (formerly Pappas Group)
Senior Designer
2017 – 2019

Designer
2014 – 2017

WebMechanix
Designer
2013 – 2014

 

Education

B.F.A. Graphic Design
Savannah College of Art and Design
Magna Cum Laude

 

Featured Work

10G Website

Winner Graphic Design USA Best in Web + Digital + UX Design: Website
May 2019

Dollywood: Park App

Webbys 2019 Honoree
Apps, Mobile + Voice: Entertainment

Winner Graphic Design USA
Best in Web + Digital + UX Design: Apps May 2018

Harlem Globetrotters

Winner Graphic Design USA
Best in Web + Digital + UX Design: Apps
May 2019

Clyde's Commitment to Better Campaign

Gold AAF DC ADDY - Cross Platform
March 2018

Silver AAF DC ADDY - Out of Home & Ambient Media
March 2018

 
 

nice things people have said about my work (or me)

 
 

On leadership

Jenn’s team leadership is evident in the ultimate success of the team. She is supportive and provides direction where needed while giving people autonomy to own their deliverables. Under her leadership, the team successfully normed and delivered everything on time.

Senior Program Director

Jenn’s incredible empathy shines through in her interactions with her team members. She goes above and beyond to connect with and listen to her colleagues, taking the time to understand the context, and problem solving when needed.

Product Designer (Direct Report)

On design work

She is always going the extra mile to make sure us Front End Developers and really the entire team, understand the direction of the designs. It makes a huge difference in the overall project running smoothly when everyone is on the same page.

Senior FE Engineer

On other things

Jenn’s ability to provide both humor and unwavering support during challenging situations is truly commendable. She consistently offers this valuable combination to all of her direct reports, creating a positive and uplifting work environment

Product Designer (Direct Report)

Her ability to bring ideas, inspire change, and support the team is paramount. Her ability during budget discussions to propose ideas that work best for us and the client has helped steer leadership and the team on a path forward that is spearheading the success of the project.

Associate Engineering Director

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