Throughout my tenure at Architech, I had the opportunity to demonstrate my leadership skills by guiding a talented Junior designer through a transformative journey of learning the intricacies of the Westshore design system and navigating the complex internal politics of the organization. My goal was not only to foster their growth and development but also to leverage their potential in contributing to a project of great significance: rebuilding the design library for improved functionality, consistency, and seamless integration with the material front-end system.

Working closely with the Junior designer, I took on a mentorship role, ensuring they received comprehensive guidance in understanding the nuances of the Westshore design system. Together, we explored its principles, guidelines, and best practices, while simultaneously immersing them in the organizational dynamics and stakeholder interactions that played a crucial role in the design process.

As we embarked on the task of rebuilding the design library, I encouraged the Junior designer to take ownership of the project while providing support and encouragement every step of the way. We worked collaboratively to identify areas for enhancement, striving for a design system that not only upheld consistency but also facilitated improved user experiences and efficiency in development. Through regular check-ins and constructive feedback, the Junior designer gradually gained confidence in their abilities, leading to the successful realization of a refined and cohesive design library.

Building upon this accomplishment, our team set out to tackle an ambitious project for Westshore Terminal: creating a complex new Train Forecasting section within their application. This undertaking involved integrating multiple schedules, coordinating with different companies, and meticulously tracking inventory while ensuring adjustability to accommodate dynamic variables. As the leader of this endeavour, I facilitated seamless communication and collaboration between team members, fostering a harmonious environment that nurtured creativity and innovation.

When the initial designs for the Train Forecasting section faced resistance from the client, I took accountability for the situation and led the team in reevaluating the requirements and feedback. Together, we brainstormed and iterated on fresh solutions that addressed the client's concerns while upholding the project's objectives. Our collective efforts resulted in a remarkable transformation that the client not only appreciated but also praised for its user-centricity and intuitive functionality.

This experience of guiding the Junior designer, rebuilding the design library, and leading the team through the Train Forecasting project served as a pivotal moment in my career. It reinforced my belief in the importance of mentorship and collaboration, and the value of user-centered design. Furthermore, it solidified my aspiration to continue pursuing leadership roles, where I can leverage my skills, knowledge, and passion to drive transformative projects that exceed client expectations and positively impact end-users. The opportunity to work closely with the Westshore Terminal team allowed me to further refine my expertise in navigating complex organizational landscapes, resulting in a more holistic and strategic approach to design leadership.