Hi, I'm Mackenzie

I'm a Minneapolis-based UX Leader who leads cross-functional teams while staying deeply hands-on in the work. I solve complex problems, simplify the messy, and deliver solutions that drive real business impact—all while making sure the process doesn't lose sight of the people we're designing for.

My Story

I've spent 9+ years leading UX strategy for Fortune 500 brands including American Express Global Business Travel, Cochlear, Mack Trucks, and Sunrise Senior Living. My work spans ecommerce optimization, B2B platforms, mobile apps, and enterprise systems—delivering measurable results like 80% conversion increases, 44% lead growth, and projects recognized as company-defining successes.

Before I found my way to UX, I spent over a decade as a professional musical theatre actress. That background taught me to deeply understand human behavior, tell compelling stories, and connect with people—skills that make me a more empathetic designer, a stronger presenter, and better at building the kind of client relationships that turn good projects into great ones.

How I Work

I thrive in the space where strategy meets execution. Sometimes that means setting the vision and directing cross-functional teams through complex initiatives. Sometimes it means rolling up my sleeves to ensure every interaction stays true to the user experience from concept through launch.

I start with alignment

I facilitate sessions with stakeholders to rebuild problems around how customers actually think—not how organizations are structured. That alignment becomes the foundation for every decision, and from there I orchestrate UX across disciplines to keep execution cohesive.

I simplify complexity

I get to the heart of the problem by challenging assumptions, aligning stakeholders around what users actually need, and focusing relentlessly on what matters. The goal is always to design solutions that feel effortless—even when the work behind them isn't.

I design for impact

Real usability improvements, conversion lifts, leads generated. Beautiful design is table stakes, but if it doesn't work for users and move business metrics, it's just decoration.

Beyond Work

When I'm not working, my partner and I are probably at a brewery or heading to the lake. Minneapolis comes alive in the warmer months—festivals, outdoor events, the kind of energy that makes you never want to be inside. At home, I'm usually midway through a book, testing out a new recipe, or knees-deep in whatever craft project seemed like a good idea at the time.

Let's Connect

I'm always open to conversations about interesting UX challenges, speaking opportunities, or collaborations.

Get In Touch