SONIA SIERRA
Experience & Innovation Strategist
Working at the intersection ofUser ExperienceMachine Learning & AIAccessibilityBusiness StrategyUX ResearchFutures Thinking
Hi there! I am an Experience & Innovation Strategist based in San Francisco. I help companies design end-to-end product experiences that are scalable and technology-inclusive.
Besides my endless energy and positivity, I provide an interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving. I blend user-centered design with business strategy, future-thinking methodologies, emerging technology (concentrated on AI), and accessibility advocacy. My systems thinking mindset allows me to balance big-picture vision with practicality.
My approach falls under a mix of these categories: strategy, experience design, and technology.
Strategy
I combine business and innovation strategies to implement effective change and adapt to evolving customer needs. I can provide guidance on emerging trends, spotting opportunities for growth, and developing solutions for long-term success.
Experience Design
I combine 13+ years of design expertise to deliver end-to-end experiences. I approach challenges with design thinking and a user-centered mindset.
Technology
I’m passionate about the use of technology to enhance customer experiences. I am particularly intrigued by how emerging tech can enhance, hinder, or disrupt human needs. With the rapid advancements in AI, I believe it’s important to prioritize ethical and equitable implementations to ensure positive impacts on society.
My ultimate goal is to create impactful and accessible product experiences prioritizing ethical and equitable implementations of emerging technologies.
About
WHO I AM
I am a designer with an MBA, coding chops, and 6+ years of experience with AI/ML. I lead with innovation, empathy, and authenticity to build a culture of trust.
Some highlights of my experience: I have facilitated design thinking workshops with Google and Adobe, researched and recommended strategies for the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center, and led user experience and creative projects for AI startups.
About
EDUCATION
MBA in Design Strategy
California College of the Arts, San FranciscoMFA, Interdisciplinary Arts Education
University of Barcelona, SpainExperimental Arts & Visual Education
University of Barcelona, Spain
Brands & Companies
Over the years I have had the opportunity to work or collaborate with very inspiring people and companies!
Sam's Club
Experience Strategy
I lead the end-to-end experience, assisting with its change management strategy.
Airtable
Sam's Business Partner
Weekly collaboration to strategize, develop, and scale the new Sam's enterprise data management product.
Capital One
Design Strategist
My role provided product vision, innovation, strategy, actionable insights, accessibility advocacy, and roadmap planning to evolve the enterprise data platforms and digital transformation across Capital One.
Charles Schwab
Sr. UX Research
I created a research strategy to develop a new digital product experience to support the long-term investment goals of Schwab’s highest net worth clients ($1M+ investable assets).
Google
Design Thinking Facilitator
I assisted facilitating a Design Thinking workshop for executive MBAs.
Delft University of Technology
Strategic Foresight Facilitator
Taught students the intersection of technology, design, and strategic foresight.
Connected Camps
Consultant
As a team of four we helped Connected Camps expand their business model
Adobe
Design Thinking Facilitator
Assisted in a three day sprint for the highest executives.
Nasdaq Entrepeneurial Center
Design Researcher & Strategist
I developed the education program strategy to connect tech startups with students who needed access to technology, tools, and entrepreneurial networks.
GE Healthcare
Multi-language designer
Lead technical and complex designs in 12+ languages ensuring design quality from agencies and peers.
TEDx San Francisco
Operations
Volunteered to help operations for conference
Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Multi-language designer
Lead designs in 20+ languages ensuring design quality from agencies and peers.
Rebbl
Design Strategist Consultant
As a team of five we created a growth strategy plan for their supply change operations.