W. Brett Polonsky

Philosophy, Team Leadership & Vision

Great leadership is adaptive, humble, and clear-eyed. It means knowing when to step in, when to step back, and how to read the room. I believe in setting a strong vision—grounded in clear processes, high standards, and a culture of collaboration. My goal is to build teams that are aligned, engaged, and empowered to deliver outstanding work that makes a difference.

Availability
Good leaders don’t disappear. I stay present and accessible—guiding, unblocking, and encouraging creative growth. I give teams room to explore while keeping alignment tight. Flexibility, individual style, and curiosity are not just welcome—they’re necessary.

Communication
Say what matters, listen for what’s missing, and adapt quickly. I prioritize direct, one-on-one communication to build trust and keep teams on the same page. Clarity and honesty are essential, especially when navigating change.

Accountability
Ownership is everything. I lead by example—owning outcomes, celebrating wins, and learning from setbacks. I hold myself and others to a high standard while creating space for safe, productive exploration.

Mentorship
Design leadership is mentorship. That means advocating for your team, protecting their space to grow, and giving them the tools they need to succeed. When people feel supported and seen, they do their best work—and they bring others with them.

Design is at its best when it's rooted in empathy. I believe in deeply understanding the user—their context, motivations, and emotional landscape. When we do that, we’re not guessing. We’re building experiences that actually connect. And when teams feel supported and aligned around that shared purpose, the results speak for themselves.