About me
I'm a product design leader who transforms complex B2B systems into intuitive, human-centered experiences that drive measurable business results. Currently at PandaDoc, I design critical workflows and onboarding journeys that accelerate user adoption and reduce friction across the customer lifecycle.
Over 7 years, I've led design initiatives across B2B SaaS companies from startups to enterprise, consistently delivering solutions that balance user needs with business objectives. I guide design initiatives through their entire lifecycle, from strategic ideation to post-launch optimization, while building robust research practices that validate decisions and inform product direction.
My approach centers on clarity, intentionality, and deep user understanding. I believe exceptional design emerges from rigorous research, cross-functional collaboration, and the discipline to solve the right problems. Whether leading design sprints, mentoring team members, or presenting to executives, I focus on creating alignment around user-centered solutions that scale.
Outside of product work, I'm committed to continuous growth, from conducting user research to teaching AI-powered design, exploring new languages to training for marathons.
I'm driven by curiosity and the conviction that great design requires both systematic thinking and genuine empathy.
Tidbits
End-to-end Designer
I am engaged in every stage of the design process, from discovery through post-release iteration. I adopt a holistic approach to each initiative, ensuring that every aspect of the user experience is meticulously crafted and continuously refined.
1% Better Than Yesterday
I am my biggest competition, and stagnation is not an option. I strive to improve every day, even if just by 1%, constantly pushing myself to achieve greater heights.
Always up to date
I ensure I stay up to date with the latest design tools, particularly Figma. I frequently organize workshops for my team, teaching them how to leverage the newest updates and features, ensuring we all remain at the cutting edge of design.
Excellence by Design
I never settle for good; I always strive for the best possible solution. I am committed to delivering exceptional user experiences and outstanding UI, ensuring every initiative achieves the highest standards of design excellence.
Teamwork Gets You to the Finish Line
Design work is never a solo endeavor; I rely on my team to deliver the best results. From fellow designers to product managers and engineers, I involve everyone in the design process and value their input.
Together, we achieve excellence.
I am Not the User
I consistently involve users throughout the design process, whether through interviews or usability tests. Understanding user problems and motivations is crucial for crafting effective design solutions.
What people say about me
Mariana’s work is incredible and it was always a pleasure to go over all the designs with you and implementing them. I can only hope that my work flow with designers in the future is as half as great as it was with her.
Luís Bernardo, Front-End Developer (Colleague)
Mariana […] is an exceptional manager, designer, and individual. She consistently delivers innovative and impactful solutions to complex design challenges. Her attention to detail and passion for excellence set the bar high for our team, pushing us to constantly strive for better solutions.
Helena Maia, Product Designer (Direct report)
Mariana’s strategic vision for the design team and her ability to foster strong relationships with leadership were key in driving our product forward. Mariana also collaborated effectively with Account Managers to maintain strong relationships with critical clients, always ensuring that our design initiatives aligned with client needs.
Mariana's ability to define the strategy and scope of design initiatives ensured that our projects were not only innovative but also aligned with our overall business goals.
Amma MacMartin, Customer Success Manager
I’ve known Mariana as a very hard working and smart colleague, always interested in learning new things while, at the same time, aiming to achieve the best solutions to whatever challenges that may appear in her path.
Mariana is very organized, pro-active, a great team player and always has an excellent critical attitude towards her work.
André Carmo, UX/UI Designer (Colleague)