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.

Throughout my career, I have engaged in all phases of the project lifecycle with a wide array of companies, multicultural teams, and international projects.

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.

And I help organize TypeCon as part of the S{o}TA board.

“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.