General Info:

User Experience professional: interaction + visual design and front-end development

Hello, I'm Matt DeRusha, a User Experience professional with 25 years of experience collaborating with industry leaders such as eXp Realty, Mary Kay, GameStop, and consulting for top companies like US Bank, Expedia, and Bank of America. My passion lies in crafting exceptional digital and offline experiences that drive user satisfaction and business growth. Let's work together to create memorable user interactions that exceed expectations.

Capabilities:

  • UX Research
  • Interaction Design
  • Visual Design
  • Information Architecture
  • A/B Testing
  • User Testing
  • Mentoring / Team Leader
  • Figma, Sketch, Axure, XD, etc.
  • Adobe Product Suite
  • Mac and PC experience
  • Microsoft Office

Experience:

Lead Product Designer
eXprealty.com formerly Showcase IDX

As the Lead Product Designer, I played a pivotal role in elevating exprealty.com to a prominent competitor in the real estate industry, aligning it with established platforms such as Redfin and Zillow. With a substantial monthly traffic of ~ 5 million visitors (making eXpRealty.com the world's 4th largest real estate search platform), and 90,000+ agents, my responsibilities for the testing, wire-framing, and design of the website’s search and agent experiences.

Furthermore, I actively contributed to a collaborative effort that yielded the development of a patent-pending system designed to facilitate seamless connections between our agents and potential clients, enhancing the platform’s functionality and delivering a distinctive edge in the real estate market.

Skills used:
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • INTERACTION DESIGN
  • VISUAL DESIGN
  • WIREFRAMING
  • USER TESTING
  • USER RESEARCH

Dallas, TX

Jul 2021 - Sep 2023

Lead User Experience Architect
Rightpoint

During my tenure as a consultant for Rightpoint, I honed my expertise in an array of critical UX disciplines, including specialized UX research, precision-focused UX design, meticulous wire-framing, and strategic information architecture. I had the privilege of working with clients such as U.S. Bank, Humana, Abbott Labs, One Call Care Management, Goldman Sachs, Merrill Lynch, and DaVita.

Skills used:
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • INTERACTION DESIGN
  • WIREFRAMING
  • USER TESTING
  • USER RESEARCH

Dallas, TX

Apr 2020 - Feb 2021

Lead User Experience Designer
TandemSeven

In my role, I had a variety of responsibilities, either as the sole User Experience Designer (UED) or leading a small team of User Experience Architects (UEAs) in various engagements. My skill set includes strong client-facing presentation and communication skills, both written and verbal, and I actively participated in structuring engagements and preparing cost estimates as a vital member of our sales pursuit team.

I adeptly handled multiple projects and proposals simultaneously, while also managing and facilitating user research, persona development, usability testing, contextual inquiry, task analysis, and field studies. Additionally, I provided valuable insights throughout the course of client discovery sessions, business requirements development, persona and archetype creation, as well as the interpretation of user goals and priorities.

I am skilled at conducting audits of existing systems and websites, preparing detailed reports with improvement recommendations based on clarity and usability best practices. Furthermore, I actively contributed to requirements definition activities, assisting in gathering, prioritizing, documenting, and securing stakeholder buy-in.

My work involved architecting complex content and information systems into usage scenarios, use cases, wireframes, content outlines, mockups/storyboards, and functional specifications, encompassing both paper and interactive prototypes. I specialized in developing content and workflow maps that indicate process and system implications, navigation, and content relationships. Additionally, I provided heuristic evaluations and reviews of early visual mockups and prototype designs, while also dedicating time to mentor and guide less experienced team members.

Skills used:
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • INTERACTION DESIGN
  • VISUAL DESIGN
  • WIREFRAMING
  • USER TESTING
  • USER RESEARCH

Dallas, TX

Dec 2014 - Apr 2020

Senior UX Team Lead
Santander Consumer USA

Santander Consumer USA, a renowned leader in the automotive finance sector, entrusted me with a pivotal role in their digital transformation efforts. I was tasked with the design and development of a new product website, and I provided leadership to a team of designers and front-end developers. Additionally, my responsibilities encompassed the maintenance and enhancement of existing online properties, ensuring their continued effectiveness and alignment with the company’s evolving objectives.

Skills used:
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • VISUAL & INTERACTION DESIGN
  • FRONT-END-DEV (HTML, CSS, PHP, JQUERY/JAVASCRIPT)
  • A/B TESTING
  • USER TESTING

Dallas, TX

Nov 2013 - Dec 2014

User Experience Designer
projekt202

projekt202, a pioneering design research-led User Experience consultancy, provided me with the opportunity to collaborate with prominent clients, where I played crucial roles in enhancing user experiences. At Expedia.com, I assumed the position of a UX Designer/Developer, contributing to the optimization of their digital interface. Additionally, I took on the role of design lead at BackgroundChecks.com, facilitating user-centric design strategies. In my engagement with Southwest Airlines, my responsibilities spanned research, design, and prototyping, playing an integral part in elevating their digital interactions.

Skills used:
  • DESIGN RESEARCH
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • VISUAL & INTERACTION DESIGN
  • FRONT-END-DEV (HTML, CSS, PHP, JQUERY/JAVASCRIPT)
  • A/B TESTING
  • USER TESTING

Dallas, TX

May 2012 - Nov 2013

Senior User Experience Designer
GameStop.com

GameStop, the global leader in video game and software retail, entrusted me with the role of Senior UX Designer. My responsibilities were twofold, encompassing the transformation of their UI design to meet world-class e-commerce standards, and the enhancement of front-end code to ensure a seamless and exceptional user experience.

Skills used:
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • VISUAL & INTERACTION DESIGN
  • FRONT-END-DEV (HTML, CSS, PHP, JQUERY/JAVASCRIPT)
  • A/B TESTING
  • USER TESTING

Dallas, TX

May 2010 - May 2012

Director of Interactive Marketing for North America
Siemens Gigaset USA

Gigaset Communications USA, the North American subsidiary of Siemens Gigaset GmbH, presented a multifaceted role as Director of Interactive Marketing. My primary responsibilities were twofold:

E-commerce Site Establishment: I played a pivotal role in the establishment of e-commerce sites designed for the promotion and sale of Gigaset products across multiple North American markets. These platforms were crucial for expanding the brand’s presence and facilitating product accessibility.

Global Strategy Collaboration: Collaborating closely with Gigaset’s global headquarters, I worked to develop and implement global strategies. This involved aligning the North American operations with the overarching company vision, ensuring a cohesive and effective approach across international markets.

Skills used:
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • VISUAL & INTERACTION DESIGN
  • FRONT-END-DEV (HTML, CSS, JQUERY/JAVASCRIPT, SHOPIFY E-COMMERCE SYSTEM)
  • A/B TESTING
  • USER TESTING

Dallas, TX

Jul 2009 - Apr 2010

Senior Interactive Art Director / Global Interactive Marketing
Mary Kay Inc.

My time at MaryKay.com began with a formidable undertaking: orchestrating a comprehensive global overhaul of both the global subsidiary websites and an expansive network of over 700,000 Independent Consultant e-commerce sites. This endeavor presented a series of specific challenges, including:

Heritage and Modernity: One of the foremost challenges involved designing a visual identity that not only paid homage to Mary Kay Inc’s rich heritage but also steered the brand towards a more sophisticated and contemporary direction. Striking the right balance between tradition and innovation was paramount.

Customization and Consistency: To cater to a diverse array of subsidiary markets, spanning 32 countries and still expanding, we needed to craft an interface that permitted customization at the local level while upholding the overall global brand direction. Maintaining a consistent yet adaptable brand identity was a critical objective.

In the day-to-day operations, I assumed the responsibility of overseeing the web creative team, ensuring seamless collaboration and efficient project management. Furthermore, my role entailed the production of content for quarterly releases and special promotions, contributing to the continuous evolution and enhancement of MaryKay.com’s digital presence.

Skills used:
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • VISUAL & INTERACTION DESIGN
  • PHOTOSHOOT ART DIRECTION
  • FRONT-END-DEV (HTML, CSS, ACTIONSCRIPT 2.0, .NET)
  • FLASH

Dallas, TX

Jun 2006 - Jul 2009

Senior Interactive Art Director / North America
Uniden America

In my role, I held the position of leading a dedicated team comprising both designers and programmers. Together, we embarked on a transformative journey to revamp the online presence of Uniden.com, as well as the Uniden outlet stores. This endeavor involved a comprehensive overhaul of their digital interfaces, ensuring they aligned with contemporary standards and customer expectations.

In addition to our in-house efforts, I fostered collaborative relationships with external partners, such as Microsoft & Sony. These partnerships allowed us to coordinate and execute online marketing initiatives for cross-branded products, expanding our reach and promoting a cohesive brand image.

Skills used:
  • INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
  • VISUAL & INTERACTION DESIGN
  • FRONT-END-DEV (HTML, CSS, ACTIONSCRIPT 2.0, COLD FUSION)
  • FLASH

Fort Worth, TX

May 2005 - Jun 2006

Senior Interactive Art Director
sgstudio (Superior Graphics)

At sgstudio, an innovative venture launched by Superior Graphics, our primary aim was to explore the realm of creative and interactive marketing, catering to both our established and prospective digital printing clients. My role encompassed a spectrum of crucial responsibilities, including:

Team Leadership: I spearheaded the process of assembling and managing a proficient creative and front-end development team. Our collective efforts were instrumental in driving the success of the venture, fostering innovative and client-centric solutions.

Client Engagement: A significant component of my role involved direct interaction with clients. I engaged in collaborative discussions, understood their unique requirements, and adeptly translated their needs into actionable strategies. These interactions often culminated in the drafting of tailored proposals that addressed their specific objectives.

sgstudio served as a dynamic platform through which we extended our creative and interactive marketing expertise to our clientele, contributing to the overall growth and diversification of Superior Graphics.

Dallas, TX

Aug 2003 - May 2005

Interactive Art Director
Expidant/Theoris (closed)

I had the privilege of working for an award-winning interactive services firm, where my role extended beyond traditional web design and development. My responsibilities encompassed the full spectrum of client-centric services, including:

Design and Development: I took charge of crafting websites that not only met but exceeded the unique requirements of our diverse regional and national clients. This involved leveraging innovative design and development techniques to deliver exceptional digital solutions.

Client Engagement and Conceptualization: I actively engaged with clients, offering them tailored concepts that resonated with their objectives and vision. This included pitching innovative ideas and strategies during client meetings, ensuring alignment with their needs and expectations.

Concept Execution: Beyond the conceptual stage, I executed these ideas with precision, translating them into tangible, results-driven solutions. This holistic approach allowed us to bring our clients’ visions to life and establish strong, enduring partnerships.

Indianapolis, IN

Aug 2000 - Jul 2003

Interactive Marketing
Summex Corp (closed)

My role encompassed a diverse set of responsibilities, which included:

Graphic Design: I was tasked with creating compelling marketing collateral that effectively communicated the company’s message to its target audience.

Website Design and Development: I not only designed but also developed the company’s very first website. This marked the beginning of my journey in the field of web design and development, setting the stage for my ongoing passion and expertise in this domain.

Indianapolis, IN

Oct 1998 - Aug 2000

Education:

Bachelor of Science, Marketing
Indiana University Kelley School of Business

I maintained a rigorous commitment to my education by working full-time while pursuing year-round studies at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business. This dedication allowed me to gain valuable practical experience while simultaneously advancing my academic and professional skills.

Indianapolis, IN