Profile & Story

About Me

I’m Dr. Leo Primero, PhD, MSHCI — a UX/UI Design Manager, consultant, educator, and decorated military veteran with over 30 years of multidisciplinary experience.

I’m motivated by the opportunity to make technology more human. In every role — teaching, designing, or leading teams — I work to create experiences that are clear, inclusive, and genuinely helpful, while empowering others to advance confidently in their design journeys.

What I Do

I lead UX strategy and design innovation at Cognizant TriZetto Software Group, translating complex business requirements into intuitive prototypes, wireflows, and user journeys. I oversee usability testing and UX validation to ensure every release delivers measurable results, and I champion Agile practices as a Certified ScrumMaster and Product Owner.

Teaching & Mentorship

I’m a UI/UX Course Facilitator at Cornell University’s eCornell program and an Instructional Specialist at 2U edX. I guide learners through interactive discussions, live Q&A, and project-based feedback—simplifying complex concepts and fostering inclusive, practice-oriented learning. I believe great design begins with empathy, purpose, and curiosity.

Consulting

As the founder of 1stwebs Services, I deliver cost-effective, user-centered solutions that improve engagement and streamline workflows through design and analytics. Earlier roles at SecondMarket, TravelClick, and Logical Design Solutions strengthened my focus on usability, accessibility, and product coherence.

Service & Leadership

Before design, I served as a Captain in the Armed Forces of the Philippines, commanding Special Forces units in critical operations. Honors include the Distinguished Conduct Star, Gold Cross, and multiple Military Merit and Commendation Medals. That mission-driven mindset continues to guide how I lead teams and solve problems under pressure.

Academic Foundation

I hold advanced degrees in Organizational Leadership, Human-Computer Interaction, and Professional & Technical Communication. This mix of research rigor and hands-on practice helps me connect design strategy, technology, and human experience.

How I Work

  • Evidence-based design: research, usability testing, and measurable outcomes.
  • Systems thinking: scalable design systems, governance, and accessibility (WCAG 2.2).
  • Agile collaboration: cross-functional alignment with Product, Engineering, and stakeholders.
  • Mentorship: growing designers through clear feedback, templates, and repeatable workflows.