About me
Hi, I'm Nick, a design and strategy leader with experience helping teams increase their capacity for impact.
I bring a unique set of skills, prioritizing business strategy, research, and organizational design to improve outcomes.
My passion lies in empowering teams through experimentation, creativity, and mentorship. I have experience unraveling complex systems and collaborating across diverse disciplines. I’m passionate about building strong team cultures, creating thoughtful products, and advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion in tech.
Throughout my career, I have engaged in all phases of the project lifecycle with a wide array of companies, multicultural teams, and international projects.
You can currently find me at Humana, as part of their Experience Center, and consulting & advising businesses on design and research through Nick & Scratch.
My journey in design started with the tattoo parlor in our basement when I was growing up.
I studied art history and worked in an art gallery doing research, translation, and archiving while making installation and public art for the city of Boston.
From public art, I learned firsthand how design profoundly impacts people's perspectives of their environment, each other, and themselves. This experience also informed my thesis.
Teaching sailing to individuals with a range of physical and cognitive abilities ignited my passion for accessibility and inclusive design, which I carry with me in all my endeavors.
Outside of work, I’m an avid traveler and love languages and typography, sailing, and making art. Community is important to me, along with creating opportunities for those who come after me.
I mentor designers with ADPList and start-ups with MassChallenge.
I’ve served as President of UXPA Boston, on the board of AIGA Boston as Director of Education and later as Director of Partnerships and Outreach, and as co-organizer of the Boston chapter Action Design with the awesome Astrid Chow.
“Thanks to Nick Di Stefano for all the work you’ve done with the board as president. You and the board have introduced so many new, thoughtful, and creative ways to support members. Some of these changes have been subtle yet important. I hope your successors keep these things going and continue to practice the servant leadership you’ve demonstrated in your time as an officer.”
Dan Zollman
Information Architecture & User Experience Consultant
Founder, Ethical Technology
Here are some key challenges that I specialize in:
Establishing standardized tooling and systems for project scoping, resourcing, tracking, and archiving.
Crafting effective meeting structures, agendas, and action item documentation.
Nurturing team development by recruiting, onboarding new talent, establishing skill-enhancing programs, and providing resources for growth.
Managing vendor relationships and contracts with external providers, skillfully defining the scope of work, negotiating terms, and collaborating closely with finance departments.
Proficiently forecasting and tracking budgets across projects, vendors, agencies, and freelancers.
Leading and organizing special projects, recognition ceremonies, or other initiatives that lack a natural owner.
Let's connect and explore how I can contribute to your organization's growth and make a meaningful impact.
My Values
Research & Strategy
Empowering innovation through in-depth research and strategic planning, laying the groundwork for successful design solutions.
Design & Execution
Blending creativity with precision, I deliver aesthetically compelling and functionally robust designs from concept to completion.
Leadership & Mentorship
Fostering a culture of growth and excellence, I lead by example and mentor with a focus on nurturing talent and inspiring ideas.