Lorraine Smigielski is a product design leader who guides enterprise platforms from maintenance to modernization.
As a proven leader in product design and design systems, I bring over 20 years of experience translating business goals and user needs into cohesive, scalable solutions. I specialize in building and evolving platform systems that drive product modernization, accessibility, and visual excellence. I bridge strategy with execution to deliver meaningful impact.
When not working, you can usually find me setting type for my 1880s printing press, reading speculative fiction or practicing my German at a virtual Stammtisch.
Where I shine
Leadership
I am a seasoned manager and designer, who is equally comfortable owning the design direction and strategy as I am leading people. I have run accessibility programs, served on company-wide task forces, and led cross-functional teams. Most recently, I’ve hired and trained new teams abroad, but I have also trained interns and new hires as well as helped folks grow in their careers. My teams have ranged in size from 4–9 designers, and have supported anywhere between 2–25 product teams.
Mentorship
I fully embrace my role as a mentor to the designers on my team. I share feedback on their work, and also help them progress along their career path. Every spring, I speak to college students about embarking on a career in the design industry. (If you’re interested in having me come to your class, reach out!)
Inclusion
My passion for building accessible experiences extends to how I grow teams: using empathetic mentorship and open collaboration to build a culture where people feel genuinely valued. There's nothing more joyful than watching designers I've coached breakthrough, grow, and deliver work that transforms both products and people.
Interested in learning more?
I’d love to share more about how I can help your business grow.