PHILIP BURGESS

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader Servant Leadership often brings to mind images of someone standing at the front, directing the team with authority. Yet, my experience as a UX Research Manager has taught me that leading from behind can be far more powerful. Embracing the role of a servant leader has reshaped how I guide my team, foster collaboration, and deliver meaningful user insights. This post shares my journey, practical lessons, and the impact of servant leadershi

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader Servant leadership is a powerful approach that focuses on supporting and developing team members rather than controlling every detail. Yet, many leaders struggle to find the right balance between guiding their teams and stepping back enough to allow autonomy. Micromanagement can stifle creativity and motivation, while too little involvement may leave teams feeling unsupported. This post explores how leaders can empower their teams effect

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader Leadership is often seen as a position of authority, where managers direct tasks and ensure goals are met. Yet, the most effective leaders go beyond managing—they mentor. Moving from a manager role to a mentor role means changing how you interact with your team, focusing on growth, guidance, and long-term success. This shift can transform your leadership style and create a more engaged, capable team. A leader mentoring an employee during

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader Agile teams thrive when leadership focuses on supporting and enabling team members rather than directing them. Servant leadership fits naturally within Agile frameworks by putting the needs of the team first and helping individuals grow. This approach creates an environment where teams can deliver real impact through collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement. Team collaborating in an Agile workspace What Servant Leadership Me

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader Leadership often brings to mind authority, control, and decision-making power. Yet, a different approach has gained attention for its focus on serving others first. Servant leadership flips traditional leadership on its head by prioritizing the growth and well-being of people and communities. This style creates environments where individuals feel valued, supported, and motivated to contribute their best. Understanding the core principles

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader User experience (UX) research shapes how products and services meet real human needs. Yet, the success of UX research depends not only on methods and tools but also on how teams work together. Servant leadership offers a powerful way to support UX researchers and their teams, creating an environment where everyone can contribute fully and deliver meaningful results. Servant leadership focuses on serving the team first, helping members gr

By Philip Burgess | UX Research Leader User experience (UX) research leaders play a crucial role in shaping products that truly meet user needs. Their work goes beyond gathering data; it involves guiding teams, influencing stakeholders, and driving strategic decisions. To succeed, UX research leaders must develop a specific set of skills that balance technical expertise, leadership, and communication. This post explores the core competencies every UX research leader should bu

By Philip Burgess – UX Research Leader Being a great manager isn’t just about delivering results—it’s about building the kind of environment where your team can thrive, grow, and feel valued. The best managers are also mentors, guiding their people not only toward business goals but toward personal and professional fulfillment. After years of leading and mentoring teams, here’s what I’ve found matters most: How to be the Best UX Research Manager 1. Put People Before Projects

By Philip Burgess – UX Research Leader When I think about my role as a leader, one thing always comes to mind: I work for my team, not the other way around.  That mindset is at the heart of servant leadership , and it’s shaped every decision I’ve made in my career. Over the years, I’ve led teams of every size—from one person to fifteen—and in every scenario, my focus has been the same: remove barriers, build trust, and help people grow into their best selves. What Servant Lea