Hello, I'mLena

I've been building digital products for a long time—from coding websites at a startup to refining design processes at a global company. Designing isn’t just my career—it’s what I love to do.

My journey so far

Here’s how it all started, with a few highlights along the way.

Discovering design

I played around with PowerPoint and MS Paint as a kid on my sister's laptop just for fun.

Early digital days

I taught myself HTML and CSS, experimenting with custom layouts and designs on early blogging platforms.

Formal education

I studied Web Design & New Media at Academy of Art University in San Francisco.

Startup days

I was the first employee at Jetlore, doing everything from coding and designing to crafting pitch decks.

Stepping up

I learned to navigate complex design processes, teamwork, and large-scale impact at PayPal.

Things I'm good at

Learning

I'm endlessly curious, always diving into new design tools, exploring fresh skills, and pushing myself to grow.

Collaborating

I’m a people person—I connect teams, facilitate communication, and bring ideas together.

Adapting

My diverse experience lets me flex into many roles, from hands-on coding to high-level strategy.

Working quickly

I'm highly efficient. By optimizing workflows and creating smarter processes, I help myself and others deliver faster.

My toolbox

Visual & interface design

Interaction design

Prototyping

Motion design

Design systems

Figma

Adobe

Sketch

HTML/CSS

Jira & Confluence

User research

Design operations

Design strategy

Business strategy

Information architecture

Career highlights

PayPal

6 years • Senior UX Designer

I led UX strategy for app navigation and the home screen, designed scalable systems for cross-org teams, and learned how to navigate complex projects at a global scale. Collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, I drove clarity and alignment on big initiatives.

Jetlore

8 years • Lead Designer

I was the first employee at Jetlore, handling everything from coding and UX design to branding and pitch decks. I helped grow the startup and played a key part in its successful acquisition by PayPal in 2018.

Want to see more?

Explore my portfolio or drop me a note—I'd love to hear from you!

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