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Sara Lunder
Design Lead @Google
Professional Background
Sara Lunder is a remarkable Design Lead and Manager at Google, based in London, where she spearheads the user experience for various wellbeing products and cross-platform initiatives. Known for her strong collaborative approach, Sara believes that design is more than a profession; it is an attitude that empowers users to reach their maximum potential. Her current role focuses on making technology accessible and useful for everyone, promoting a healthier lifestyle through innovative design solutions.
With over ten years of experience in the design and tech industry, Sara has made significant contributions to major tech firms such as Google, renowned consultancies like IDEO, and public entities including the NHS. Through her leadership positions and hands-on design work, she has positively impacted the lives of billions of people by creating cohesive product ecosystems that foster wellbeing and encourage engagement.
Sara's journey in design began with a strong educational foundation, including a Master's degree from the prestigious Royal College of Art in London and another Master's degree from Aalto University in Helsinki. She also holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Ljubljana. Her diverse academic background equipped her with a unique perspective on design, which she leverages to mentor the next generation of design students at Aalto University, promoting innovative thinking and creativity in her mentees.
Education and Achievements
Sara's academic pursuits laid the groundwork for her successful career in design. She obtained her Bachelor's degree from the University of Ljubljana, where she honed her early skills and initial understanding of design principles. Following this, she pursued her Master's degree from Aalto University, further refining her expertise in design methodologies. At Aalto, Sara developed a passion for user-centered design, a fundamental aspect that she carries into her professional life today. Her education culminated in her Master's degree at the Royal College of Art in London, recognized globally as one of the leading institutions in art and design, where she acquired advanced skills in design thinking, strategy, and execution.
In addition to her academic credentials, Sara's professional achievements are numerous. As a Design Lead at Google, she has overseen numerous successful projects that blend technology with user experience, solidifying her reputation as an industry leader. Her ability to work across various platforms and product lines has proven essential in promoting wellbeing-focused products. At Google, Sara has excelled in her previous role as a Senior UX Designer for Health and Fit, making significant contributions to enhancing health-related applications, believing that good design can lead to healthier choices.
Before her tenure at Google, Sara was a Product Design Lead at Helix Centre, where her focus was on applying design principles to solve complex healthcare challenges. As Head of Design at Farewill, she navigated the complexities of digital design in end-of-life planning, showcasing her versatility and commitment to making a meaningful impact through design. Her experience as an Interaction Designer at IDEO further fortified her ability to create engaging user experiences that resonate with users' needs.
Sara's impressive background extends to her freelance work, where she utilized her skills as an Interaction Designer and Digital Designer at various organizations, including Monami Agency and Celtra, Inc. This diverse experience highlights her adaptability and creativity in solving diverse design challenges across different industries.
Sara continues to share her wealth of knowledge and insights by mentoring master’s students at Aalto University, fostering creativity, and inspiring the next generation of designers to embrace user-centered approaches in their work.
Achievements
Sara Lunder's career is marked by numerous accomplishments that set her apart in the design industry. One of her most impactful roles has been at Google, where she leads significant user experience initiatives related to wellbeing products. Her leadership not only enhances the user experience but also emphasizes the importance of design in promoting health and wellbeing through technology.
Her contributions in previous roles, such as at Helix Centre and Farewill, played a crucial part in sculpting innovative solutions for complex problems, showcasing her ability to merge design and healthcare effectively. Sara has participated in using design as a tool for social good, which is reflected in her tenure with the NHS, where she helped create solutions that benefit public health.
Sara’s professional journey is characterized by a passion for collaborative design practices, which she shares with her mentees at Aalto University, helping guide future designers to hone their skills and pursue their own impactful careers. Her influence extends beyond her immediate workplace, as she imparts valuable lessons about the role of design in today's technology-driven world.
Sara Lunder’s impressive background, extensive experience in the design industry, and commitment to making a positive impact resonate through every project she engages in, establishing her as a notable figure in the intersection of technology, health, and wellbeing.