Kate Johnson

Background

About Kate Johnson

DESIGN & STRATEGY LEADER | ENTERPRISE DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION | HUMAN-CENTRED INNOVATION | DESIGN THINKING ADVOCATE I’m a design and transformation leader who works at the intersection of people, strategy, and systems. Across roles in finance, health, and education, I’ve helped organisations embed human-centred design into how they think, operate, and deliver. I thrive on turning complexity into clarity and insight into action. What drives me is building cultures where design isn’t just a function but a way of leading and working. I’ve built enterprise design capabilities from the ground up, created strategic frameworks that last, and supported teams to grow with curiosity, confidence, and care. Most recently, I led the digital strategy, design and planning function at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, bringing together architecture, design, and business analysis to shape public-facing services aligned with organisational purpose. I believe that great strategy starts with culture, that architecture is built on trust as much as tech, and that design, when done well, can shape outcomes that are not only effective but equitable and enduring. I’m open to leadership roles where I can guide people, practice, and purpose, whether as a design manager, strategic lead, or principal designer embedded in transformation. Let’s connect.