Dena Portuesi

With over 20 years of experience across CX/UX research and design, product management, marketing, and creative direction, I’ve had the privilege of shaping digital experiences across industries and continents from Pittsburgh to Dubai. This global perspective has deepened my ability to design purposeful, high-impact solutions that balance user needs with business strategy.

I’m passionate about building products that are not only functional, but genuinely intuitive and human-centered. My approach bridges UX, product strategy, and emerging AI innovation to uncover insights, guide smarter decisions, and deliver meaningful outcomes.

As a certified UX Researcher and Designer (Nielsen Norman Group), Dale Carnegie–trained leader, and experienced communicator through Toastmasters, I thrive at the intersection of empathy, strategy, and technology. Whether leading cross-functional teams, aligning stakeholders, or driving transformation, I’m drawn to projects that push boundaries, apply responsible AI, and create experiences that truly improve people’s lives.

Training / Certifications

La Roche University, Pittsburgh, PA – Bachelor of Science, Computer Graphic and Communication Design

Certifications: Oracle AI Foundations Certification, Nielsen Norman Group UXMC Master Certification

Professional Development & Training: Adobe MAX, Business Writing, Dale Carnegie, Figma Config, FOSI, HOW Design Live, LinkedIn Learning (AI, Product Management, UX Research), Pittsburgh TechFest, Product Camp, Toastmasters International, UXRC (Learners), WITCON

Continuous Learning: AI/ML, Research, Strategy, Product Management, Leadership, and Digital Wellness

Organizations

getWITit (Women in Tech)
Steel City UX Ladies
Ladies the UX
Interaction Design (IxDA/AIGA)
AI@Work
PGH.AI
Pittsburgh Robotics Network
Pittsburgh Technology Council
Product Development & Management (PDMA)
Product Management Institute (PMI)
Digital Wellness Initiatives