Nicolas El Azzi
UX Design Lead

Over my 22-year career, I have developed a strong background in design, with a focus on aligning user needs with business objectives.

My experiences in France and abroad have allowed me to work at various stages of the design process and interact directly with individuals at all levels of the corporate ladder. I have learned to establish and maintain a relationship of trust with my team and to work with cross-functional partners, cultivating and promoting a sense of shared accomplishment.

Optimizing the team's design approach by crafting and implementing processes and toolsets that improve team skills and responsiveness while supporting business growth is a motivating challenge that provides me with great personal fulfillment.

Mentoring designers by listening, learning, and collaborating

During my time at Salsify, I built the European UX team from the ground up. I prioritized open and honest communication with each team member and held regular one-on-one meetings focused on key topics such as career development, personal growth, and the team's strengths and weaknesses.
Additionally, I collaborated with team members through pair design sessions to ensure visibility into their progress and provide support.

Operationalizing team processes

At Salsify and Ippon Technologies, I took the initiative to promote teamwork and collaboration by creating a comprehensive Product Design Toolbox. This toolbox includes various Product Design and UX Research methodologies, such as research templates, detailed workshop guidelines, and links to relevant collaborative boards. By implementing this resource into the product discovery and delivery frameworks, we have streamlined our design process and improved the overall experience for the team.

Delivering impactful products to your users

Prior to Product Design Management, I supported a diverse range of clients, including those in the banking, insurance, healthcare, and e-commerce sectors, assisting them with the redesign of their products. For instance, at AOL, I developed a modules' catalog that resembled an early version of a design system, aimed at creating consistency across all channels. At Commonwealth Bank of Australia, I worked on a wealth management product alongside agile teams, using lean methodologies. Additionally, I mapped existing customer journeys to identify business opportunities. Throughout these experiences, I have always focused on the overall ecosystem, considering what happens during product use, as well as before and after, and how these elements relate to the brand. This approach allows me to create and deliver experiences that align with both user needs and business objectives.

Experiences

  • 2021 - Now

    Salsify (previously Alkemics) - Senior Manager, User Experience

  • 2018 - 2021

    Ippon Technologies - Design Lead

  • 2016 - 2017

    Napoleon Agency - Lead UX Designer

  • 2014 - 2015

    Commonwealth Bank of Australia - Senior UX Designer, My Wealth

  • 2008 - 2014

    Axance - Senior UX Designer

  • 2001 - 2008

    AOL France - Graphic / UI Designer

Writing & speaking