STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
MBA Student, Fonz Morris: Digital Experiences and Inspiring Designers
In the fast-paced and ever-evolving world of digital design, Fonz Morris stands out as a beacon of creativity and innovation. As a Lead Product Designer at Netflix and an entrepreneur, Fonz’s journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a passion for design. With a foundation in computer science and a self-taught mastery of design skills, he has successfully navigated roles at industry giants like Comcast and Coursera before making his mark at Netflix. Currently pursuing an MBA at Quantic School of Business and Technology, Fonz continues to evolve, aiming to complement his product expertise with strategic business acumen. His story is one of continuous learning, resilience, and inspiration, which he now shares as a public speaker and future author.
The Journey from Brooklyn to Silicon Valley
Fonz Morris’s path to becoming a leading figure in digital design is a testament to his determination and adaptability. Growing up in Brooklyn, Fonz pursued a degree in computer science, which laid the groundwork for his technical prowess. However, it was his burgeoning interest in design that truly set him on a unique trajectory. Driven by this passion, Fonz became a self-taught designer, acquiring the necessary skills through hands-on experience. This unconventional approach not only honed his design capabilities but equipped him with a problem-solving mindset that would prove invaluable in his career.
In his roles at Comcast and Coursera, he contributed to enhancing user experiences and driving product innovation. These experiences solidified his expertise and prepared him for the challenges of leading design at one of the world’s foremost entertainment companies, Netflix.
Impacting Millions at Netflix
At Netflix, Morris leverages his extensive background in design and technology to create compelling and intuitive user experiences. His role as Lead Product Designer involves crafting interfaces and interactions that enhance the viewing experience for millions of subscribers worldwide. This position requires a deep understanding of user needs and behaviors and the ability to anticipate and set trends in digital consumption.
Fonz’s certification as a ‘Design Thinking Professional’ from Stanford University further complements his role at Netflix. Design thinking, a methodology that encourages innovative problem-solving and user-centric design, is integral to his approach. According to a study by the Design Management Institute, companies that integrate design thinking into their strategies see significantly higher innovation success rates and returns on investment. Fonz’s application of these principles ensures that Netflix remains at the cutting edge of digital entertainment.
Embracing Business Leadership at Quantic
In 2023, Fonz Morris embarked on a new chapter in his professional development by enrolling in an MBA program at Quantic School of Business and Technology. This decision reflects his ambition to blend his design expertise with robust business acumen. Quantic’s innovative, tech-first approach to business education aligned with Fonz’s career goals, providing him with strategic insights and leadership skills essential for the next stage of his career.
The MBA program is designed to foster a business leader mindset, enabling Fonz to think more strategically and holistically about product development and business operations. This education will ultimately enhance his contributions at Netflix while empowering him to take on broader leadership roles within the tech industry.
Inspiring Others through Public Speaking and Writing
Beyond his corporate achievements, Fonz Morris is dedicated to sharing his journey and insights with others. As a public speaker, he travels globally, inspiring designers and tech enthusiasts at events like UX+. His talks often focus on his unique path from Brooklyn to Silicon Valley, the importance of self-education, and the impact of design thinking.
Fonz’s upcoming memoir, ‘Self Design,’ promises to be a profound exploration of his life and career. In this book, he aims to provide a roadmap for others who wish to follow a similar path, emphasizing the power of self-belief, continuous learning, and resilience. The memoir is sure to offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to make their mark in design, business, and tech.