Design Forward.
I turn human insights into transformative products—and help startups build the teams, culture, and systems that make innovation scalable.
I’m a Fractional UX Design Leader, partnering with founders and product teams who want senior design leadership without the cost or commitment of a full-time executive. I step in when clarity, alignment, and momentum matter most—shaping product strategy, guiding discovery, and leveling up teams.
I also lead UX Speakeasy, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the largest UX organization in Southern California, representing 7,500+ designers across San Diego and Orange County. As an Alliance partner, we helped secure San Diego–Tijuana’s World Design Capital 2024 designation and create spaces where designers connect, grow, and elevate the impact of design.
At Walmart Design, I led UX for Health & Wellness and Associate Experiences across one of the world’s most advanced supply chains—modernizing tools for millions of frontline workers and influencing how the world’s largest retailer operates at scale.
At Intuit, I guided the evolution of their Self Help & Search Platform, empowering 150M+ customers annually across QuickBooks, TurboTax, and Mint, while coaching teams as a certified Innovation Catalyst.
Throughout my career, I’ve built and scaled high-performing design organizations at $1B+ companies including CareFusion, The Active Network, and American Specialty Health.
My 15 patents reflect a consistent focus on solving deep user problems with elegant, scalable solutions. What sets me apart is my ability to uncover tacit and latent user needs—the insights most organizations miss—and translate them into decisive product opportunities. This is where design becomes a force multiplier for growth.
Available for fractional UX leadership, advisory, and hands-on engagement with startups.
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Testimonials
There have been so many projects and events that have been made even better because of that sprinkle of Chris magic. Thank you for being a terrific partner, ally, colleague, and pal. – Val Casey, Chief Design Officer, Walmart
Chris is a design rock star. He significantly raised the bar of our UX group. –Jason Broughton, Chief Design Officer, Elsevier & LexisNexis
I can confidently say Chris is one of the most exceptional design leaders I’ve encountered. With his calm and professional demeanor, Chris instills confidence in everyone around him. He combines a deep understanding of design with a steady sense of purpose, making him a leader you can trust to navigate even the most complex challenges. – Scott Saunders, Sr. Director of Design, Best Buy
During our time together, the team earned numerous Fast Company Innovation by Design awards, a testament to the impact of the work Chris helped drive. His contributions were pivotal to achieving these milestones and to the broader success of Walmart Design during a period of incredible growth and innovation. Chris is not only a talented and experienced Design leader but also a fantastic person to work with—good-natured, approachable, and endlessly supportive. I wholeheartedly recommend him and would gladly work with him again. Any organization would be fortunate to have him on their team. – Leigh Brett, Sr. Director of Design, Walmart
A passionate designer who truly connected with the users and understood their pains, their needs, and what would delight them. – Lance Elchlepp, Intuit
During our time together, the team earned numerous Fast Company Innovation by Design awards, a testament to the impact of the work Chris helped drive. His contributions were pivotal to achieving these milestones and to the broader success of Walmart Design during a period of incredible growth and innovation. Chris is not only a talented and experienced Design leader but also a fantastic person to work with—good-natured, approachable, and endlessly supportive. I wholeheartedly recommend him and would gladly work with him again. Any organization would be fortunate to have him on their team. – Leigh Brett, Sr. Director of Design, Walmart
A passionate designer who truly connected with the users and understood their pains, their needs, and what would delight them. – Lance Elchlepp, Intuit
Chris stands out as a leader, always looking for new ways to improve process and expand the culture of UX & design thinking. I enjoy his sense of humor and admire his pluck... challenges me to be better at what I do. – Ha Phan, Director of Design Tech, Zillow
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