I'm Stephen, a design leader with over fifteen years building brand systems, directing creative production, and telling sustainability stories at scale.
I lead by example, staying hands-on with design work because it makes me a better director, a more credible collaborator, and a stronger advocate for the people on my team.
I currently lead the in-house creative team at TerraCycle, one of the world's most recognized recycling and sustainability brands. Our work spans digital campaigns, UX/UI, brand identity, print, and retail solutions, all in service of making recycling and reuse feel less like a sacrifice and more like a smart, easy choice.
Before TerraCycle, I spent five years shaping the IKEA brand across the US, leading sustainability communication strategy, directing in-store brand systems across 50+ locations, and bridging the space between commerce and environmental responsibility at retail scale.
believe the most effective creative work is clear, purposeful, and honest about what it's asking of its audience. That's what I try to build, whether I'm designing a system, directing a team, or figuring out how a single image should make someone feel.
What others say about me
“Stephen struck a rare balance between being a strong creative force and a steady, supportive leader—offering clarity, direction, and insight that consistently moved projects forward. His calm presence, genuine support, and deep care for both people and purpose made a lasting impact on my growth.”
Philipos Erikos Angelopoulos UX/UI Designer at Comcast (formerly TerraCycle)
“Stephen blends strategic thinking with creative excellence—bringing meticulous attention to detail, thoughtful leadership, and a deep understanding of visual culture. His work consistently exceeded expectations and elevated every project he touched, making him an invaluable asset to our team.”
Victor Castro Director of Video and Photography at Thorlabs (formerly TerraCycle)
“Stephen elevates our creative team with his strategic insight, sharp art direction, and deep understanding of how to shape compelling brand experiences. From mentoring junior designers to shaping TerraCycle’s first-ever motion brand guidelines, his leadership consistently raised the bar for innovation and quality.”
Kevin Downey Creative Director, TerraCycle