GovTech 100The challenge // Build a suite of products to support issuers and investors in the municipal bond market, allowing more money to go back into supporting cities and towns.
My role // Over six years, I led the design work for BondLink’s entire product suite, completely overhauling every aspect of the platform to establish the company as a leader in the government technology space while helping our clients issue over $115 billion in municipal bonds.
"Michael has been an incredible mentor and collaborator, equipped with a powerful combination of talent, leadership, patience, and insight. His ability to provide clear, constructive feedback has helped me grow not only as a designer but also as a creative thinker. He’s very easy to talk to, making brainstorming and working through problems productive and fun. I’m lucky to have gotten to work so closely with him for 6 years, and I guarantee anyone who works with him will feel the same way."
Cass Hebert // Senior Product Designer at BondLink
Digital MediaThe challenge // Create a tool that enables people to improve their financial well-being by helping them understand and manage where their money is going.
My role // I led this major digital banking project from initial concept to final design and execution. Over 13 million customers now have instant access to the easiest spending tool in the market.
"There are very few UX managers as talented, driven, and inspiring as Michael. In his capacity as a VP of XD, I viewed Michael as equal parts mentor, manager, and friend. In addition to nurturing a productive and inclusive team culture, he inspired great work and was a stalwart teammate and manager who wasn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves. He made me feel heard and respected, helped my work grow, and gave me confidence."
Michael Kontopolous // Senior Experience Designer at Foundation Medicine
Best UX The challenge // Take an old-school corporate website and redesign it to reflect the spirit of innovation that embodies Goodyear's mission.
My role // I led the experience design team in close collaboration with art directors, copywriters, and developers to create this dynamic site experience.
"Michael is one of my favorite people both personally and professionally. Whenever he was allocated to a project I was on, I knew that the work would be beautiful, the team would feel they had a dedicated creative leader, and our clients would be happy to have a partner who is both innovative and thoughtful. Any creative team would be lucky to have Michael at the helm."
Meghan Ward // Account Director at GroupeConnect
The challenge // Bring mobile ordering into customers' hands in a brand new Dunkin' app.
My role // I co-led the design team, completely re-envisioning the Dunkin' Donuts app with a modern design and the ability to order your favorites on-the-go.
"Michael is a leader who genuinely supports his team, in words and most importantly in actions. He goes out of his way to empower and recognize his team, and makes sure even the most junior voice is heard. Both the team and the creative work become stronger in the environment he creates."
Laura Materna // Senior Experience Designer at DigitasLBi
Best of Industry
Silver PrizeThe challenge // Make it easy for would-be jet buyers to find and fall in love with their next aircraft.
My role // I led the UX design work and prototyping for a full redesign of Cessna's site.
"Beyond being a great manager and mentor to me while working together, Michael just knew how to get things done. He had a way of persevering even when clients pushed back on what he believed to be a great idea that I've always admired. I loved working on projects with him because I knew he would always have our back and he made it a priority to care for the people around him."
Amanda Santello // Senior Experience Designer + Manager at Intrepid Pursuits
Best B2C Technology Winner
Best UXThe challenge // Bring the Goodyear site to every device and set the stage for buying tires online.
My role // I led the experience design work for a responsive re-design of Goodyear.com, and I assisted in the implementation of e-commerce functionality.
"Trust me, you want Michael on your team. He makes any project better through his diligence, collaboration and profound insights. He is a true professional in all regards and in my years working with him, there was never a challenge that he didn't surpass."
Mike Eaton // Associate Creative Director at GroupeConnect
Website Excellence Winner
Honoree
The challenge // Share the buzz and positive press around the launch of the new Buick Regal.
My role // I was the UX lead for the design of this hub, which let customers view and share reviews, comments, photos, and videos.