MELISSA MANAK

Qualifications

Anywhere RE | Lead accessibility Designer

Nov 2o22 - PRESENT

In this role, I lead the accessibility program and drive product changes for Anywhere RE by shaping the accessibility vision and strategy roadmap. I use data-driven insights to influence stakeholders and lead a cross-functional working group that includes engineering, QA, and Product Managers. Together, we address pain points and remove blockers. By spearheading strategic initiatives, I ensure that accessibility improvements are integrated into the product roadmap, transforming challenges into better, more inclusive products. I also collaborate closely with global teams to ensure that designs are scalable and effectively executed across diverse real estate markets.

Amazon Prime | Senior UX Designer, Accessibility  |

May 2o22 - Nov 2023

In this role, I specialize in the accessibility vision and product design strategy for Amazon Prime. I use our data results to influence our stakeholders to drive inclusive experience by leading a working group working with engineering, QA, and Product Managers, impacting strategic initiatives that tackle current pain points and blockers, evolving them into improved products. I collaborate by ensuring designs are executed so that they can scale across global teams by working with our locale and marketing teams.

Ad Hoc LLC | Senior UX Designer, Mobile Accessibility  

NOV 2020 - May 2022

In this role, I iterate on a native mobile app, MVP, by refining the design system and shipping new features. Leveraging my expertise, I review any accessibility issues that come up during the design stage. I also collaborate with other a11y specialists on specific projects to foster cultural competency within my workplace.

Projects: VA Flagship app | White House honorable mention | Ad Hoc A11y Playbook

Freelance |  UI/ UX Design Consultant 

SEP 2018 - MAY 2021 

As a freelancer for companies like CVS, Dozanü Innovations, Sorbie Co, and Whai Technology, I created compelling designs and digital products across a gradient of online industries. I achieved business and user goals at all design stages while owning the project’s management. 

United Airlines | UX Interaction Designer

SEPT 2019 - MAR 2020 

I led a team in expanding accessibility on United's award-winning app. Additionally, I devised and championed organization-wide accessibility standards, leading proprietary staff training.

Projects: United mobile app | Webby Award

Convo Communications | UI/ UX Designer 

JAN 2017 - OCT 2018 

Convo Communications exclusively creates relay apps for people with hearing disabilities, and I helped the company build its UX/UI capabilities by educating them on best design practices. 

Projects: MacOS launch | iOS launch

Chicago Public Schools Web and Mobile Experience Assistant 

SEP 2014 - JAN 2015

I transformed an internal site into a responsive mobile-friendly web app for teachers to use in the classroom while embarking on an accessibility-forward rebrand. 

Projects: Knowledge Center