Andy
Polaine
Leadership Coach
,
Dr. Andy Polaine is a design leadership coach, educator, speaker and writer who helps clients transform their organisations and themselves.
For several years he worked at Fjord where he was global Group Design Director of Client Evolution. He is co-author of the book, Service Design: From Insight to Implementation.
Andy has three decades of experience in design and innovation with clients across a broad range of industries. He holds a PhD from the University of Technology, Sydney and teaches on the MA Service Design at the Hochschule Luzern, Switzerland. He writes a popular newsletter called Doctor’s Note and hosts the Power of Ten podcast.
Kickoff Session
Navigating the journey into design leadership
Shifting from an IC role to design leadership is challenging, requiring you to take on business and people responsibilities while stepping back from hands-on craft. This shift often leads to a mid-career identity crisis as you transition from maker to enabler, shaking your confidence. In this session, Andy will explore the “design leadership dip,” share lessons from coaching 120+ leaders, and guide you through activities to define your leadership approach and build confidence in your role.
Day 1
Morning
Lisbon
Kickoff Session
Navigating the journey into design leadership
Shifting from an IC role to design leadership is challenging, requiring you to take on business and people responsibilities while stepping back from hands-on craft. This shift often leads to a mid-career identity crisis as you transition from maker to enabler, shaking your confidence. In this session, Andy will explore the “design leadership dip,” share lessons from coaching 120+ leaders, and guide you through activities to define your leadership approach and build confidence in your role.
Day 1
Morning
Lisbon
April 23-24, 2025
50 Spots
April 23-24
50 Spots
How has attending Leadership Ateliers helped others?
Ateliers offered a unique blend of networking opportunities, hands-on workshops, and practical takeaways that are essential for any leader.
Tommasso, UX Lead
The Leadership Atelier is a wonderful opportunity to combine "soft skill training for CX leaders" & finding interesting international peers.
Kristina G, Senior UX Manager
If you’re looking for answers to those burning questions about leadership – this is where you’re most likely to find them!
Elena, UX Lead
Amazing people, inspiring facilitators and a great location.
Felix, Lead UX Designer
I'm returning home with so many ideas and tools, having met many other leaders and learnt a lot from these discussions. Thank you so much!
Stefanie, Lead Designer
The format we were all looking for so desperately
Christian, UX Manager
I came away from the event with many new insights and strategies, and a profound sense of connection, knowing I've made friends with some truly inspiring and caring people.
Matt, Senior Designer
How has attending Leadership Ateliers helped others?
Ateliers offered a unique blend of networking opportunities, hands-on workshops, and practical takeaways that are essential for any leader.
Tommasso, UX Lead
The Leadership Atelier is a wonderful opportunity to combine "soft skill training for CX leaders" & finding interesting international peers.
Kristina G, Senior UX Manager
If you’re looking for answers to those burning questions about leadership – this is where you’re most likely to find them!
Elena, UX Lead
Amazing people, inspiring facilitators and a great location.
Felix, Lead UX Designer
I'm returning home with so many ideas and tools, having met many other leaders and learnt a lot from these discussions. Thank you so much!
Stefanie, Lead Designer
The format we were all looking for so desperately
Christian, UX Manager
I came away from the event with many new insights and strategies, and a profound sense of connection, knowing I've made friends with some truly inspiring and caring people.
Matt, Senior Designer
Tickets for 2025 are sold out
Pre-register for 2026 and get €120 off your ticket for next year. Announcements in October.
Tickets for 2025 are sold out
Pre-register for 2026 and get €120 off your ticket for next year. Announcements in October.