What If I Convinced the CEO to Embrace Design? An Interview with Chris Bernard.

Chris is an executive focused on design, technology and strategy based in Chicago. Chris has 15+ years as a leader applying design thinking principles to organizational change, entrepreneurship, emerging technology, digital transformation, devices, software, and technical platforms. Chris has spoken on design thinking, user experience and innovation at numerous global conferences including IxDA Interactive, TEDx Penn Quarter, The AIGA Design Conference and SxSW. He’s co-author of a book on lean UX principles called Dynamic Prototyping (With an introduction written by Bill Buxton) and has written on innovation in International Design Magazine and the Journal of Business Strategy. Chris has taught as an adjunct at the Institute of Design and lectured at Ringling College of Art & Design, Kellogg School of Management, The University of Chicago Booth School of Business, School of the Art Institute Chicago and the Savannah College of Art & Design.

Jim Hertzfeld is Area Vice President, Strategy for Perficient. For over two decades, he has worked with clients to convert market insights into real-world digital products and customer experiences that actually grow their business. More than just a strategist, Jim is a pragmatic rebel known for challenging the conventional and turning grand visions into actionable steps. His candid demeanor, sprinkled with a dose of cynical optimism, shapes a narrative that challenges and inspires listeners.

Kim Williams-Czopek is GM of Global Commerce at Perficient. She works with clients to devise digital experience strategies and how to translate strategies to tactics. She specializes in digital commerce, digital product development, user research and testing strategies, and digital responsibility.