design leadership

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ux careersux careers
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DtG #10: Creating equitable hiring systems in design

DtG #10: Creating equitable hiring systems in design

We talk a lot about inclusive design, but rarely about the systems we use to build inclusive teams. This piece unpacks how to make hiring more equitable, from portfolios and panels to cultural fit.

Ben Martin
Ben Martin
design leadershipdesign leadership
+5+5
DtG #7: The visibility tax of design management.

DtG #7: The visibility tax of design management.

Design managers do a lot that never shows up in a roadmap. Here’s why that work matters—and why we need to start recognizing it.

Ben Martin
Ben Martin
design leadershipdesign leadership
+4+4
DtG #6: The fine line between leadership and gatekeeping.

DtG #6: The fine line between leadership and gatekeeping.

Gatekeeping in design leadership often comes from a good place—shielding teams from unnecessary friction. But too much protection can limit growth, stifle influence, and prevent designers from developing the skills they need to thrive.

Ben Martin
Ben Martin
staff designerstaff designer
+5+5
DtG #5: The rise of the Super IC and what it means for design

DtG #5: The rise of the Super IC and what it means for design

As design organizations evolve, more designers are advancing without becoming managers. But what does the rise of the Super IC mean for career growth, team dynamics, and the future of design leadership?

Ben Martin
Ben Martin
design leadershipdesign leadership
+4+4
DtG #4: Is a design manager just a product manager with less authority?

DtG #4: Is a design manager just a product manager with less authority?

Design managers shape product strategy just like product managers, but often without the same decision-making power. How can we shift from reactive to proactive leadership?

Ben Martin
Ben Martin
figmafigma
+6+6
DtG #3: Are design tools really making design less valuable?

DtG #3: Are design tools really making design less valuable?

Figma and design systems changed the way we work. But have they also changed how design is valued?

Ben Martin
Ben Martin
design leadershipdesign leadership
+3+3
DtG #2: Stop throwing the C-word around so recklessly

DtG #2: Stop throwing the C-word around so recklessly

The word “craft” gets tossed around in design conversations, but do we actually agree on what it means?

Ben Martin
Ben Martin
design leadershipdesign leadership
+4+4
DtG #1: Why leading designers is different from leading other roles

DtG #1: Why leading designers is different from leading other roles

Leading designers requires more than just managing work—it’s about balancing creativity, structure, and influence.

Ben Martin
Ben Martin