Bringing together design executives from some of the world’s largest companies, the summit offered a platform for in-depth discussions on the role of design in shaping business and society. Attendees explored key themes such as the rise of design in the AI era, business transformation, metrics, benchmarks, craft evolution, and the integration
of design into the C-Suite and Boards.
The Design Executive Council is dedicated to advancing the influence of strategic design leadership at the highest levels of business. Through meaningful collaboration among global design executives, the summit helped drive the next phase of growth for design functions and empowered the leaders shaping its future.
Together, our Council represents companies driving over $1 trillion in annual revenue, and design executives with an average of 23 years of experience, making this a pivotal moment to redefine the future of strategic design leadership on a global scale.
Our first day at Miraval Austin shifted from calm to vibrant as members united to advance strategic design leadership. The opening ceremony set a reflective tone, followed by a dynamic fishbowl networking session that sparked connections and lively conversations. Members then explored The Art of Letting Go through Suminigashi, creating marbled ink art—a metaphor for embracing uncertainty in leadership. This creative exercise helped members connect on a deeper level, setting a collaborative spirit for the days ahead. The day wrapped up with a heartfelt group dinner, reinforcing the sense of community.
Day two focused on leadership identity and future needs. It began with the “Art of Imperfection,” where members practiced kintsugi, a metaphor for resilience, breaking and repairing bowls with gold. This hands-on session encouraged leaders to embrace flaws and see beauty in imperfection. Design executives mapped out their journeys, reflecting on pivotal moments and sharing insights through workshops. These reflections sparked deeper discussions on the personal and professional experiences that shape effective leadership. Discussions revealed common themes like navigating change and personal growth. The day concluded with a collaborative vision for next-generation leadership, setting clear priorities for the Council’s impact.
The final day turned insights into a roadmap for the future of strategic design leadership. Members voted on the key competencies for design leaders, then outlined actionable steps for the Council’s initiatives. This process ensured that everyone’s perspectives were included in shaping the future path. A powerful closing session solidified commitments to advancing the Council’s mission, fostering a sense of shared ownership beyond the summit. The collective energy and dedication marked a strong foundation for what comes next.
Miraval, Austin is known for its serene, wellness-oriented setting surrounded by nature—an ideal space for authentic, intentionality, deep conversations and practice-enriching discussions.
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Miraval offers the optimal retreat for reflection, mindfulness, and focus, allowing us to step back from the daily grind of executive life to generate new clarity and breakthroughs for leadership.
When I started DXC, I envisioned a forum where design executives would lead critical conversations on shaping the future of business and society. In one year, we have emerged with incredible momentum, unity, and influence.
Design executives have a unique role to imagine and make futures tangible. This isn't just about design but about the world we are building through our work and the values we lead with. Our members serve companies that have a significant influence on business and society, and with this responsibility, comes the question — how do we want to use this influence?
Imagine. You’re sitting in front of Fortune 500 CEOs at the World Economic Forum. What message would you share? How would you want them to change their business practices? How might we shift from short-term profit maximization to long-term value creation?
What qualities do design executives need to be effective and sought after at the highest levels of business? What deep work must we undertake to show up as clear, influential, and impactful leaders?
What deep work must we undertake to show up as clear, influential, and impactful leaders?
What actions does the Design Executive Council need to take collectively to elevate the conversation on business and design? How can we advocate for the value of strategic design leadership in the C-Suite and on Boards?
This is why we are gathering: to expand the vision, capacity, and potential of design executives, and consequently, the thinking, values, and capabilities of businesses. Ultimately, we aim to shape a world we can be proud to pass on to future generations.
To get there, we need space for honest conversations, and this is where we’ll have them together as members of this Council.
