Product design is a diverse field with numerous opportunities. Sometimes, it feels like being a businessperson, detective, artist, mathematician, and psychologist all in a single project. It hasn't been a straightforward journey for me, but that's the beauty of product design – you're constantly learning and adjusting. Every bit of knowledge and experience enriches your approach to each new project.
Ksenia Kozlova
Product designer based in London
I’ve wanted to become a fashion designer since I was around 7 years old.
Then I got my computer at the age of 13 and it twisted everything.
I have been a solo web designer in retail and led a small team during the expansion of a business from e-commerce to a chain of offline shops. I spent three years in a creative agency, worked with charities, mentored interns, and played a pivotal role in a startup's growth from seed level to Series A.
My professional story in a nutshell.
Education
ITMO University
2007-2012, Specialist
Information systems and Technologies
University under The IPA of EURASEC
2010-2014, Specialist
Graphic design
Work
Graphic designer
kideria
2012-2014
I landed this job to assist the new online store for kids' goods with advertising banners on their website. However, the business grew and I ended up as the Head of a small team of designers, responsible for the online store, the app, offline store marketing, and a small team of designers. This experience allowed me to understand the entire spectrum of a product and the impact of implementing the right strategy and visual representation. This role was similar to what we now call “CX design” but back then I had no clue about it.
Graphic designer, Web designer
Cake.ru
2014-2017
Engaging in a wide range of projects (UX, UI and Branding mostly), from bakeries to steel producers and TV channels, I have had the opportunity to both lead teams and act as a supporting designer. It has been a valuable experience working with internal and external stakeholders, honing my skills in interpreting briefs, and presenting and advocating for the results.
Brand designer, Web designer
freelance
2017-2018
As I moved to London i kept myself busy with various project from my existing clients while I got used to UK’s business culture and improved my english.
Brand designer, Graphic designer, Mentor
Sapphire Community Group, Performing Production
2019
Joined these two amazing charity organizations (which primarily focus on helping young people with education and employment) to assist with promotions and social media. Ended up taking on re-branding responsibilities and coaching interns who eventually succeeded me. It was an incredibly enjoyable experience. I hope to reconnect with Sapphire soon to pursue my design course for teenagers.
Product Designer
Drovo (ex Adverttu)
2019-2023
Joining the startup at its seed level, I had a significant impact on Drovo's growth. I handled diverse design and optimization aspects, including app development, website improvements, user testing, and offline customer experience. Witnessing the company's user base and team expand, I played a vital role in onboarding key members of the Product and Creative teams. It was an exciting opportunity to deliver and continuously enhance the product alongside the Product and Dev teams.