Kate Stanchak: Service Designer in Location Independent, GA

* Industry Trend Research * Concept Creation * Techpack and Specs for Prototypes * Color/Material Palette Creation and Lookbooks * Graphic/Pattern Design

Identified and fostered new market opportunities focused on 3-10 years out through planning, conducting, and synthesizing primary and secondary research to identify trends in user behaviors, needs, and expectations Led team (business and technology counterparts) through synthesis to develop clear and actionable findings from research to drive consensus and future business Developing inspiring presentations for internal stakeholders and other audiences to communicate recommendations and importance to the business

Identified trends relevant to custom lifestyle business and presented to larger team for buy-in and connection to overall business. Created the product experience for our on-line customizable footwear through trend relevant color and material palettes and inspirational products showcased on our website Established connection between our customization offering and our in-line product to create stronger brand initiatives and become a trend leader in the customization market

Developed new technology platform for the cross-training business to gain entry into the youth market and resulted in expansion of our performance training line Created brand strategy for the women’s training market to provide focus and identify opportunities, this led to our first 100K pair training shoe above $70, and entry into major retailers that had not previously carried our product Established self as trend research/forecasting expert for cross-training and casual outdoor categories, including development of seasonal aesthetic trends, color and material palette development and merchandising Worked with cross-functional teams on a range of product, from high volume drivers (2M pairs!) to innovate brand builders

Led consumer research plan and created product development strategy for entry into the Age-in-Place market; resulted in successful launch of multiple products and increased Kohler’s exposure in the accessibility market Developed new aesthetic direction for our plastic shower wall sets to compete with the tile and solid surface market; this included market and trend analysis, developing time lines and testing plans, and working directly with the factory on implementation