Sowal Bicycles Photo Shoot 2020
Hi, I’m Todd Rice
Design Leadership Across UX, Product Strategy, Research, and Digital Transformation
With over two decades in human interface design, I bring together creative thinking, UX depth, and product strategy to deliver scalable, user-centered outcomes. My approach is grounded in research and shaped by real-world experience.
Design is rarely linear. It requires exploration, iteration, and the space to test ideas before making confident decisions. I believe in digging deep early, staying curious throughout, and owning the metrics that define whether a solution is working. Data guides direction, but discovery fuels progress.
I’ve built and managed high-performing teams, led hiring efforts, and coached designers at all levels. I’ve helped shape design culture, establish scalable practices, and connect individual growth to team and business goals. My leadership experience spans fintech, e-commerce, automotive, and wellness with brands like Volkswagen, USAA, Nike, and Ladder.
I stay hands-on across UX, UI, and design systems. I use insights from research and data to shape product vision, guide priorities, and collaborate with product, engineering, and business partners.
Leadership, to me, is about people. I lead with empathy, clear communication, and a focus on outcomes. Whether it's removing blockers, mentoring through ambiguity, or aligning teams around a shared goal, I work to create environments where great design can happen.
Outside of work, I’m a proud dad, a “getting-back-in-shape” bicyclist, and currently writing a youth novel.
Career Highlights
Nike: Led experimental design exploration during the conceptualization phase of Nike's virtual store, aiming to craft an immersive and innovative shopping experience by merging iconic brand elements with technology.
Best Friends Animal Society: Created a nationwide structure to support and organize advocacy efforts, amplifying their impact in promoting animal welfare across the United States.
Ladder: Developed tailored and personalized pathways for diverse audience segments, enhancing the overall experience by customizing the user journey based on individual interests and requirements.
Miro Facilitator Advisory Panel: Selected to join a global panel of 50 expert facilitators, contributing feedback and strategic insights to shape Miro’s product roadmap, support features for remote collaboration, and improve tools for inclusive, engaging workshop experiences.
No Kid Hungry
Developed strategic brand awareness initiatives and conceptualized the framework for Taste of the Nation events, promoting advocacy and driving donations to combat childhood hunger.
Fjord
Led service design efforts to streamline workflows, resulting in a 21% reduction in system time and automation of 74 processes. This unlocked an estimated $180 million in savings. Embedded design into operational strategy and positioned it as a trusted driver of efficiency and innovation.
Volkswagen
Collaborated on various projects, refining teamwork and process management skills to contribute effectively to the development and implementation of innovative solutions. Helped enhance the overall experience for customers and stakeholders.
The Firm
Partnered with this iconic talent management company to craft digital and e-commerce strategies for high-profile artists. Blended fan engagement with forward-thinking online experiences. Contributed to campaigns featuring music acts like The Chicks, blockbuster films such as Spider-Man, and top-tier talent including Samuel L. Jackson.
USAA: Conducted thorough audience research to develop an engaging and interactive annual report experience tailored to the USAA membership audience, effectively conveying the organization's progress and achievements.
BET Awards: Developed a secure and efficient voting system integrating both digital and physical processes, ensuring the integrity of the voting process while providing a seamless experience for participants.
Wagner Skis: Led a full digital transformation for this premium custom ski manufacturer, enhancing both the e-commerce experience and customer journey. The result was a more seamless path from ski personalization to purchase, reflecting the brand’s high-touch, performance-driven ethos.
Agency (Founder): Founded and grew a trusted multimillion-dollar agency that helped brands scale through design-led digital solutions. Built and managed a multidisciplinary team, working with clients across industries to craft award-winning websites, campaigns, and digital products.
Education and Professional Certifications
Fort Lewis College
Durango, CO
Major: Self defined Multimedia Design
Minor: Anthropology
The combination of design and the study of how people interact, celebrate, and live helped shape my passion. Understanding where those experiences intersect with products continues to inspire my work today.
Certifications
• ICAgile – Agile Fundamentals, Leading SAFe
• IBM – Enterprise Design Thinking (Practitioner and AI Co-Creator)
• IDEO U – Hello Design Thinking
• PMI – Project Management Professional (PMP)
These certifications reflect a hybrid approach to leadership, product thinking, and collaboration. They strengthen my ability to guide cross-functional teams, apply human-centered design at scale, and balance creative vision with delivery excellence.
Feel free to reach out for speaking opportunities, collaborations, or just to say hello.