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Makeda Drennan
UX Program Manager, Accessibility at Google
Professional Background
Makeda Drennan is a distinguished professional with a robust background in user experience (UX), advertising, and program management. With a long-standing tenure at Google, she has made significant contributions across multiple teams, demonstrating her versatile skill set and ability to adapt to various roles. As a UX Program Manager focusing on Accessibility and Next Billion Users, Makeda played a pivotal role in ensuring that Google's products are user-friendly and inclusive, thus enhancing user experience for a diverse global audience. Her commitment to accessibility reflects her dedication to making technology usable for everyone, regardless of their abilities or circumstances.
Prior to her impressive journey at Google, Makeda began her career in the creative industry as a Junior Strategist and Media Planner at Goodby Silverstein & Partners, a renowned advertising agency. Here, she honed her skills in strategic planning and media execution, laying a strong foundation for her transition into user experience and program management. Her creative background enriching her analytical ability creates a unique combination that enhances her effectiveness in project management roles.
Education and Achievements
Makeda Drennan earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Advertising from the University of Oregon. This educational foundation has equipped her with essential knowledge and skills necessary for understanding the complexities of consumer behavior and engaging with audiences effectively. Her academic experience in Advertising has also fostered her creative thinking abilities, which are pivotal in her work within user experience and program management roles.
Makeda's work at Google is complemented by her previous roles in People Operations, which involved recruiting top talent and facilitating effective human resource practices. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a commitment to enhancing team performance and fostering an inclusive workplace, particularly as it pertains to accessibility and diversity in technology.
Notable Achievements
During her time at Google, Makeda successfully managed programs that directly impacted user experience for millions worldwide. As the UX Program Manager for Accessibility, she spearheaded initiatives that fostered inclusive design principles, ensuring that all users valued their interaction with Google's products. Her work with the Next Billion Users team focused on providing tailored experiences for emerging markets, creating a more globally connected user base.
Her transition into UX Program Management from a creative advertising background showcases her adaptability and depth of expertise. This journey from Goodby Silverstein & Partners to one of the largest tech companies in the world illustrates Makeda's ambition and drive to effect meaningful change within the technology space.
Makeda's proficiency in program management, coupled with her advocacy for accessibility, positions her as a thought leader in her field. With an acute understanding of how to create user-centric solutions, she continues to inspire and empower her teams to focus on diverse audiences. As an emerging voice in the conversation around accessibility and user experience, Makeda Drennan stands as a remarkable example of how creativity and technical expertise can harmoniously coexist in the pursuit of better user experiences in technology.
