After receiving my degree in Visual Communications from NIU, I broke into the design field at an entry level. Working my way up, I learned most of my skills practically, becoming very experienced in the field of UI/UX in particular. Over my career I've had the opportunity to learn a wide range of skills and work on a diverse set of projects.
VP of Creative & Digital Design at J.P. Morgan
2022–Current
I help lead a team that assists internal marketers develop strategies to promote their solutions. I am tasked with understanding our users and developing digital strategies to reach them through our digital presences. I create prototypes based on internal and external research which are tested and built, then retested and rebuilt.
Instructor of UI/UX @ Northern Illinois University
2022–Current
I develop lesson plans and lead in-person, semester long classes for any and every level of expertise in UI/UX design. My students learn how to run with a project from start to finish, including investigating and interviewing users, creating testable prototypes and iterating based on feedback and testing.
Senior Designer @ Cars.com
2016–2022
My responsibilities included meeting with clients, helping them to develop a scope and vision for their sites and leading our internal design team to execute on those expectations. I also assisted with building and maintaining our internal design system, used to create modular sites for clients more quickly.
Designer @ Driftless Glen Distillery
2015–2016
Owned by Brian Bemis—who also owned the dealer group—I was responsible for designing menus, labels, and other restaurant materials. I also created advertising and marketing materials, and focused on expanding the brand.
Digital Designer & Marketing Manager @ Brian Bemis Automotive Group
2014–2016
My responsibilities included developing assets for, and launching social media and web campaigns. I managed websites and vehicle inventory. I also acted as an expert consultant, contributing to decisions about digital platforms and presence.
Bachelor of Fine Arts, Visual Communication @ Northern Illinois University
2011–2014, graduated May, 2014
An in-depth graphic design program that focused on foundational design skills, how to develop projects, work within timelines, collaborate with others and work with clients.
After graduating NIU I began working at a car dealership, doing their digital marketing and managing their websites, when the owner started a distillery I had the opportunity to design their materials, including labels they still use. It wasn't long before I stumbled on a startup that was offering to provide us with a new website.
Impressed, I endeavored to join them despite knowing virtually nothing about UI or UX design, having received a traditional education. They gave me a chance, soon I was part of a group that understood that we either deliver by our own strength or we and the company fail.
It was in this environment that each of us worked extraordinarily to earn clients' business. in few years I designed hundreds of sites, becoming an expert in web and UX. Eventually we pivoted away from boutique sites, focusing inward on developing a product that allowed us to quickly create modular websites for our clients.
Our success drew attention from larger companies, before long one saw the potential in our solutions and acquired the business.
Once acquired the environment changed, I felt I had done all I could in my position. I began exploring other opportunities, receiving an offer from J.P. Morgan, who hoped to modernize their traditional business.
Currently I work for J.P. Morgan Chase as one of their VPs of Creative and Digital design. I work with our product teams to understand their solutions in order to better market them. I listen to my coworkers as they pitch ideas and help develop them into beautiful, impactful campaigns and designs.
I sincerely believe that design is not art. Art is self expression, design is expression on behalf of another. I consider myself a partner to my clients and coworkers. I will always tell you what I believe should be done and why, but I never forget that I'm doing this on your behalf.
I also believe in taking big chances and pitching big ideas, just to see if you can make them come true. I don't believe you should ever stop learning, iterating, creating and trying.
In my free time I've been known to draw people for fun. I've been an artist my entire life, getting my start by competing with my slightly more talented sister for attention (I won't lie about that).
I've sketched and doodled countless works, it's one of my favorite things to do. Drawing acts as a way for me to satisfy my creativity, therefore allowing me to be more impartial towards my daily work.
If you're interested in seeing more, reach out.
I also have what some people would consider to be a lot of dogs (3). Behold, my dogs, Beef Wellington, Cinnabun, and Judah. They make every day a special and unique experience and they're just so darn adorable. Here's some pictures so you too can experience their adorableness.
As you can see, I am quite impressive and I have the stats to back that up.
Do I have your interest?
Then let's talk, reach me at
Matt @ Matthew Design.net
