About Me

I’m a designer who finds energy in collaboration—sharing ideas, exploring possibilities, and shaping concepts into meaningful solutions. I’m drawn to design for its balance of aesthetics and utility, and I focus on creating experiences that make everyday interactions clearer, easier, and more thoughtful.

Areas of Expertise

Design

User experience, User interface, Design Thinking, Design Systems, Responsive Design, Mobile, E-commerce, SaaS, Healthcare design, Prototyping, Accessibility

I approach every design problem with a user-first mindset and a strong foundation in design principles. I take ideas from rough concepts and wireframes through to refined, high-fidelity prototypes. My process is grounded in research—translating user insights into thoughtful, intuitive experiences. I’m at my best when collaborating cross-functionally to shape solutions that are both seamless and impactful.

Brand

Photo styling, Logos, Print design, Social media, Art direction, Creative direction

I’ve created full brand experiences and campaigns from concept to launch—crafting visual identities, digital assets, signage, interiors, and promotional content. I focus on layout, color, and detail to ensure every touchpoint feels cohesive, intentional, and visually compelling.

Leadership

Cross-functional Collaboration, Design Strategy, Coaching & Mentorship, Establishing Design Principles & Standards, Team Building, Performance Management, Strategic Prioritization, Stakeholder Communication

I’m a UX design leader who thrives on collaboration and creative problem-solving. I’ve led multidisciplinary teams—designers, writers, photographers and researchers—balancing clear direction with space for exploration. I believe in leading with empathy, nurturing talent, and fostering a culture where great ideas can grow into meaningful experiences.

Resume

I am a highly experienced designer who specializes in user experience design and user interface design. I also have a thorough knowledge of visual design, branding, and identity development. My background in psychology and clinical social work has always helped me to be an advocate for the people using the products I design.

Experience

Signet Jewelers
Assistant Creative Director and Lead UX Designer - Purchase
Austin, TX
Oct 2021 to present

Express Scripts
UX Manager & Senior Designer
Austin, TX
Jan 2018 to Oct 2021

Amazon.com
Senior UX Designer - Amazon.com Purchase Flow and Subscribe & Save
Seattle, WA
May 2011 to October 2013

Freelance UX & Visual Designer
kathleenjohnsondesign.com
Albuquerque, NM
Oct 2013 to Jan 2018

PayScale.com
Creative Director
Seattle, WA
Oct 2004 to May 2011

Education

M.S.W. - Clinical Social Work
University of Washington

B.A. - Psychology
University of New Mexico

Software and Design Skills

  • Highly skilled in Figma, Sketch, and the Adobe Creative Suite: Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator

  • Experience with using and contributing to Design Systems

  • Advanced protoyping in Figma, Axure and InVision

  • Work with Agile teams to deliver iterative product improvements

  • Responsive design experience

  • Mobile design experience: iPhone, Kindle Fire, iPad, limited Android

  • Understanding of JAVASCRIPT, HTML, and CSS

  • Proficiency in designing for WCAG 2.0 accessibility standards

Outside of work…

Wellness

I love staying updated on the latest wellness trends, experimenting with creating natural skincare concoctions, and different forms of exercise, especially weight lifting and practicing yin yoga. I’ve also developed a new obsession with understanding the art and science behind perfume.

Art & Design

I work closely with my husband on his art and design studio, contributing to everything from concept development to visual storytelling. Together, we develop concepts for furniture, lighting, and decor for a range of clients. I also manage his social media presence, design business materials, and create art books and other branded visual content to support and elevate his work.