Open to work

Currently looking for remote product design opportunities. Learn more

Open to work

Currently looking for remote product design opportunities. Learn more

Open to work

Currently looking for remote product design opportunities. Learn more

Dave

Leal

Dave

Leal

Dave

Leal

Meet Dave

Hello, internet friend.

Pronouns

he/his/him

Remote Location

North Carolina

Origin

Portugal

Last Name Pronunciation

/Lee•Al/

Degree

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

Experience

16+ years

Core Skills

Product Design

Product Designer

Dave is a seasoned designer based in Manteo with over 16 years of experience. He’s contributed to a variety of in-house teams across industries like fintech and e-commerce, helping businesses reach ambitious goals. Known for his developer-like mindset, collaborative spirit, and ability to simplify complex problems, Dave brings a unique set of skills to every project.

A champion for human-centered design, Dave is committed to creating inclusive, accessible experiences that resonate with all users. He believes in putting people at the heart of his work, blending empathy with strategy to meet both user needs and business objectives.

Dave (with short hair) at WebstaurantStore HQ

On any project, whether sketching ideas, brainstorming in FigJam, or building prototypes, Dave consistently delivers quality, creativity, and attention to detail. Outside of work, he finds inspiration in family hikes, learning to surf, camping adventures, and documenting life’s moments. His curiosity fuels his creativity and keeps him connected to the world around him.

Skills

Product Design

Wireframing

User Research

Prototyping

Brainstorming

Design Systems

Code-Friendly

Responsive Design

Coaching

Strategy

Leadership

Design Ops

Principles

be Curious

Driven by curiosity, I push boundaries and explore new ideas to craft user-centered solutions that are both innovative and impactful.

be Analytical

I examine complex systems carefully, deconstructing and rebuilding them to create simpler, stronger, and more effective solutions.

be Open

Believing in the power of diverse perspectives, I foster an inclusive environment where every voice is valued, leading to more effective teamwork and innovative outcomes.

be Strategic

I believe in sustainable innovation with clear communication, documentation, and long-term vision, ensuring all collaborators can build confidently on a shared foundation.

Tiny office

Once a small walk-in closet, my now cozy home office serves as my creative mission control. This snug space, measuring just shy of 5 by 8 feet, is where minimalism meets inspiration.

Dave Leal sitting a desk at work, collaborating with team members.

Every item has a purpose, and clutter is banished (well, mostly). It houses the essentials, including my leafy green coworkers. This tiny office is beyond a physical space; it’s a reflection of my passion, intentionality, and love for design.

My Green Coworkers

Zuzu Plant
ZZ Plant
Devil's Ivy
Pothos – Golden
Sweetheart Plant
Philodendron – Cordatum
Fiddle Leaf Fig
Ficus Lyrata
Rubber Plant
Burgundy Ficus
Desert Rose
Adenium Obesum
Crocodile Fern
Crocodile Fern
Corn Plant
Dracaena Fragrans
String of Bananas
Curio Radicans

FAQ

How did you start in design?

My journey into design began in 2008 when I stumbled upon the world of design and programming. Captivated by their potential to shape meaningful interactions and make a positive impact on people’s lives, I dove into learning everything I could. Self-taught and driven by curiosity, I started with tools like Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft FrontPage, and Macromedia Flash, refining my skills and expanding my creative toolkit. This early fascination laid the foundation for my career, evolving into a commitment to crafting seamless, user-centered experiences where every detail counts.

What is your approach to collaboration?

How do you maintain continuous growth in your work?

What does stewardship mean to you in a team setting?

How do you ensure your designs are future-proof?

What is your communication strategy in collaborative projects?

Can you explain your 'Break and Rebuild' philosophy?

How does your knowledge of HTML and CSS benefit your design process?

What inspires you to stay curious and innovative?

How did you start in design?

What is your approach to collaboration?

How do you maintain continuous growth in your work?

What does stewardship mean to you in a team setting?

How do you ensure your designs are future-proof?

What is your communication strategy in collaborative projects?

Can you explain your 'Break and Rebuild' philosophy?

How does your knowledge of HTML and CSS benefit your design process?

What inspires you to stay curious and innovative?

How did you start in design?

What is your approach to collaboration?

How do you maintain continuous growth in your work?

What does stewardship mean to you in a team setting?

How do you ensure your designs are future-proof?

What is your communication strategy in collaborative projects?

Can you explain your 'Break and Rebuild' philosophy?

How does your knowledge of HTML and CSS benefit your design process?

What inspires you to stay curious and innovative?

Thanks for stopping by.

Get in touch

Drop me a message if you have any questions or want to chat about design! Follow me on social media to stay connected.

Made in Manteo, NC ⚓

Thanks for stopping by.

Get in touch

Drop me a message if you have any questions or want to chat about design! Follow me on social media to stay connected.

Made in Manteo, NC ⚓

Thanks for stopping by.

Get in touch

Drop me a message if you have any questions or want to chat about design! Follow me on social media to stay connected.

Made in Manteo, NC ⚓