Driven by curiosity. Known as Darby.

I lead research that helps teams build smarter, more inclusive digital experiences rooted in real user needs.

My Approach

As a UX research leader, I bring together people, practice, and purpose to drive meaningful impact. I lead a global team of researchers, fostering a culture of collaboration, growth, and operational excellence. My approach combines mixed-methods rigor with cross-functional alignment—ensuring that research doesn’t just inform decisions, but shapes strategy. I’m especially passionate about scaling inclusive, user-centered practices that deliver measurable outcomes—from optimizing GenAI experiences to supporting initiatives with multimillion-dollar impact.

  • Holistic Research Methods

    From usability testing and surveys to contextual inquiry and card sorting, I apply mixed methods tailored to each challenge—whether optimizing loyalty programs, designing with GenAI, or increasing revenue and success towards business KPIs.

    Cross-functional Collaboration

    I work closely with product owners, engineers, and executive stakeholders to define roadmaps, validate concepts, and guide product development with user-centered evidence.

    Inclusive and Global Design

    I’ve spearheaded inclusive research programs and led international studies to inform localization and accessibility best practices.

  • Research Roadmapping

    I lead the development of long-term research roadmaps that align with evolving product and business priorities—managing 8–10 concurrent projects while delivering insights that directly inform design and development.

    Cross-Functional Alignment

    Partnering with product, design, engineering, and executive leadership, I define research opportunities that support both MVP iterations and long-term vision. My planning ensures that research efforts deliver not just insights—but outcomes.

    Scalable Frameworks

    I’ve built and scaled research practices across teams, including processes, documentation, and mentorship structures that grow team capabilities and support consistent, strategic output.

    Business Impact

    Strategic planning in my work is always tied to outcomes: from supporting initiatives that generated $70M+ in quarterly revenue to informing localization and accessibility strategies across global markets.

  • Global Team Leadership

    I currently lead a distributed team of 7 researchers across multiple time zones. I focus on fostering a collaborative environment where everyone contributes, grows, and delivers high-impact work.

    Mentorship & Growth

    From mentoring early-career UX apprentices to building team skill sets at scale, I’m passionate about supporting the professional development of researchers. I’ve designed onboarding frameworks, career ladders, and peer-review processes that encourage continuous learning.

    Operational Excellence

    I’ve implemented systems using tools like Jira and Confluence to streamline research planning, documentation, and visibility—ensuring research is accessible, actionable, and aligned with strategic priorities.

    Influence & Advocacy

    I represent research in executive and cross-functional settings, advocating for user needs while balancing business goals. I make sure research is embedded in decision-making, not just a support function.

Darby presenting at the design team all hands alongside her service dog who is standing next to her.

  • 6+ years of product planning

    Collaborating with cross-functional product teams to deliver projects that meet business KPIs, exceptional customer experiences, and meets user needs.

  • 6+ years of management

    Fostering a collaboratve environment and elevating my teams insights to senior leaders to impact business strategy.

  • 8+ years end-to-end user research

    Scoping, planning, and executing user research of digital loyalty products and emerging technology such as VR and GenAI.

What my team and collaborators have to say:

"I'm grateful for the culture of the team that you have helped shape. I really value how you lead - trusting me to run independently and do my best work. At the same time, knowing you're always there for guidance. It's rare to have manger who's both hands-off and deeply supportive."

"I *so* appreciate all the work you've done to better educate our stakeholders on your team's capabilities - I know it's been so valuable to so many new people. I know you didn't necessarily sign up for all the additional time you've spent with our teams, but we have really enjoyed it and are so appreciative!"

"Thank you for everything you do for our team and our company—not just this week, but every single day! Your Leadership, positive energy, attention to detail, commitment to our guests and also collaborating with others are truly appreciated and I should be thanking you every single day for all that you do!"

"Thank you for your leadership, passion, positivity, inquisitiveness, and creative energy regardless of the project we're working on! I appreciate you and you make Hilton a great place to work!"