About Me

I thrive on fostering vision and motivation. Having led international teams and established boutique studios, two invaluable lesson stands out – vitality and honesty. Regardless of the challenge, openness within a team allows any adversity to be overcome. Whether it's burning the midnight oil, engaging in tough critiques, or navigating differences, all obstacles can be surmounted when every team member clearly understands the shared goal.

Having the skill to create is invaluable, and sometimes, you need to embrace the hands-on approach. I bring firsthand experience collaborating with not only complex publicly traded companies but also skilled artisans worldwide. Whether it's within billion dollar institutions, a vast complex of international factories, the intimacy of boutique artisan studios, or the studio of local makers, I've navigated it all. Regardless of language barriers or cultural differences, enthusiasm for craftsmanship prevails. My understanding of materials, mastery of tools and processes, and honed hand skills, coupled with the keen ability to convey ideas through sketch, have allowed me the gratification of hand finishing bronze components in Switzerland, weaving leather in France, crafting sandals in Pakistan, carving buffalo horn in America, and envisioning the future in Detroit. The common thread? Passion, excitement, and the hands of people that bring dreams to life.

Effective communication can make or break a project. I’ve crafted my career around the ability to be ready at a moment's notice. Whether it's a sudden call asking, 'Are you in NYC? I need you to meet with X tomorrow,' or unforeseen opportunities demanding quick action. Being nimble, adaptable, confident and comfortable communicating in any situation is a must. Sometimes, you have to jump into the ring, and I've had the privilege of sharing that ring alongside luminaries like Tom Ford, Ralph Lauren, Tory Burch, Christopher Bailey, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen,  and Georgio Armani.

There is a process to making things well. Focus, Filter, Define, Create. Once learned, anything is on the table. I approach every opportunity with vitality, curiosity, and sincerity, regardless of the challenge:

• “Let’s create a toaster worthy of being on the counter.” Let’s go.
• “Let’s create a new brand based in South Side Chicago” Let’s go. 
• “Let’s create an award-winning turntable.” Let’s go.