Hi, I’m Monica and I’m passionate about design.

I began drawing as soon as I could hold a pencil in my hand. At age 10, one of my art works was featured in an exhibit at the San Jose Museum of Art. I still love art, especially the interactive kind.

Most recently I was at Anaplan where I spent the better part of the last decade. As of 2018, I had the opportunity to be the lead designer for Anaplan's AI/ML efforts, where I worked on four AI/ML projects.

While at Anaplan, I completed Anaplan's UXR training for designers and successfully conducted dozens of research studies autonomously. Additionally, I led product strategy by designing and facilitating several workshops both for my internal team and externally with customers. One such workshop was on first time use, an area I have a soft spot for. I believe if you can win with your users up front, they'll stay for the long run.

I’m excited to bring the very research-driven, customer-first philosophies I learned at Anaplan, and all of my experience to my next role.

Previously, I worked at Intuit, designing QuickBooks Online. While there, I completed their Design for Delight and Design Thinking trainings.

I started my career in San Diego at Comet Creative (formerly Studio 2055) a traditional design firm. I went on to Hewlett Packard’s R&D group, where I worked on a variety of hybrid UI and print projects. I moved back to the Bay Area to work on the UX product team at Deem Inc., (formerly Rearden Commerce) before moving on to the QBO team at Intuit.

At San Jose State University I studied creative advertising and graphic design.

I believe the greatest design inspiration comes from stepping outside the office to see and experience new environments and perspectives. I regularly travel abroad to dive into foreign arts and culture. At home, I paint, (acrylics, oils, water color) draw, and work on art projects year-round as part of an art collective. I also love to give back by mentoring.

I'm always open to learning about new opportunities. I'd love to hear from you! Say hi by emailing me at monicagirel@gmail.com