Matt Blank - Design Director at Microsoft

Microsoft

Principal Design Director

2014 - Present (10y, 10m)

TL;DR

I lead the design teams for Microsoft Teams Free and Teams for SMB, focused on delivering high-quality, user-centric, and AI-driven experiences. Previously, I led design for Skype, GroupMe, and the Teams mobile apps. The latter reached over 100 million daily users, topped app store charts, and became Microsoft’s highest-rated mobile product.

I began my journey at Microsoft as a Senior Designer on Skype before leading the design team responsible for the iOS, iPadOS, and Android apps for Microsoft Teams. During this time, I was promoted to Principal Design Manager. Under my leadership, the mobile app achieved global success—topping app store charts, serving over 100 million daily active users, and became Microsoft's highest-rated mobile app.

Now, as the Director of Design, I lead the international teams for Microsoft Teams Free and Microsoft Teams for SMB, shaping experiences across all platforms for non-profits, community groups, prosumers, and small businesses. This includes overseeing the design of AI-powered experiences and agents that help users accomplish tasks more efficiently, stay connected, and discover value faster. Previously, I led design for Microsoft’s two consumer communication apps, Skype and GroupMe, guiding both products through pivotal transitions. I am passionate about creating products that are accessible, simple, and delightful to use, holding a high bar for craft.

Additionally, I led the design team for the public launch of Copilot in Teams (Microsoft’s AI assistant). As a member of the Design leadership team, I have helped define Microsoft's mobile design language, earned several patents, and continuously advocate for innovation and excellence in our designs.

Previous work

2001 - 2014

2013 - 2014 (10m)

Lead UX Designer (Metro)

I was responsible for keeping the user at the center of all digital consumer products for the UK’s most-read free newspaper and one of its most visited news sites. My role emphasized mobile-first, responsive design and a shareable approach to content. I led the UX/UI design for Metro’s native apps, including serving as the principal designer for its Android app, Metro10. I worked closely with teams across the business to ensure user experience guided every stage of product development, from initial concept through to post-launch.

2010 - 2013 (3y, 9m)

Senior UX Designer (AOL)

I helped lead UX and UI design for branded experiences and major product redesigns, including HuffPost. I created AOL’s first iPad app and led the full redesign of one of the UK’s most popular parenting sites, overseeing everything from concept wireframes and user journeys to final designs and implementation. Post-launch, I used data to iterate and improve the experience. I also worked on responsive video templates used across AOL properties and designed the fully responsive grid and structure for the main AOL UK website. Alongside my design work, I served as a Cultural Ambassador, supporting recruitment efforts and helping to champion the company’s values.

2007 - 2010 (3y, 1m)

Senior Web & Flash Designer (Dennis Publishing)

I worked on the websites for several of their flagship magazines, including Maxim, Men’s Fitness, PC Pro, and Auto Express. My work included designing and developing microsites, custom channels, HTML newsletters, and Flash promos and banners. I also created full-page Flash animations for their digital magazines, designing campaigns for brands such as 20th Century Fox, Sony, Nintendo, Coca-Cola, Disney, and Ford, among many other global clients.

2006 - 2007 (1y, 1m)

Web Producer (AKQA)

I was part of a small team at this digital design agency responsible for maintaining the Microsoft Xbox European websites. My work included creating graphics, editing Flash content, and designing layouts across various sections of the site. I also served as Lead Producer for the Nike Plus website, promoting the collaboration between Nike and Apple’s iTunes.

2001 - 2006 (5y)

Web Designer (Freelance)

I have designed, built, and maintained a range of e-commerce and editorial websites for clients spanning corporate groups to West End musicals. My work has helped clients grow their revenue and secure major contracts by strengthening their online presence.

About me

Born and raised in London, I now call Seattle home, where I live with my wife, our daughters, and our very spoiled dog. When I’m not designing, you’ll probably find me exploring the beauty of Washington state or reading the latest tech news. I co-founded a charity, run a fan club, and hosted a radio show for over ten years.