Hi, I'm Neha Paranjpe

Realize opportunity. Align strategy. Deliver value.

I believe design is most powerful when it is leveraged strategically — transforming complexity into clarity, aligning vision with execution, and ensuring outcomes that create lasting impact.

With a background in industrial design and design management, my approach bridges the gap between user needs, technological capabilities, and business objectives.

As an extrovert, I thrive in collaborative environments where diverse perspectives challenge me to think boldly. I draw inspiration from everything around me — technology, art, fashion, food, culture, architecture, and even coffee chats on career journeys — to continually shape the way I approach design and strategy.

View my CV (opens in a new tab)

Synthesizing research notes on colored cards during a workshop session — In the field — research synthesis in progress

Affiliations

MITArjun Rathi DesignADPListSCAD

How I work

A systems-driven designer who is part —

Part

Sherlock Holmes

…observes things others often wouldn’t notice.

I lead with curiosity, always questioning, noticing the details, and connecting unexpected dots.

Part

Marie Kondo

…enjoys creating structure and simplicity.

I thrive in complexity but design for clarity. I use structure to bring order to ideas and streamline creative chaos.

Part

Thomas Edison

…sees challenges as a way to learn something new.

I’m a fast learner and iterative thinker. I test, refine, and grow with each new problem I tackle.

Part

Steve Jobs

…turns bold ideas into working realities.

I combine vision with action — building structure around ambitious goals and pushing ideas through to execution.

My mentorship journey

Even a single conversation can change a career.

Top 10

ADPList mentor, Oct–Dec 2024 & Jan–Mar 2025

50+

Mentorship sessions completed

2000+

Mentorship minutes logged

When I first decided to pursue my master's abroad, the process was overwhelming — navigating schools, specializations, and career options without much guidance. I spoke to over 30 professionals before choosing SCAD, and realized how valuable even a single conversation can be during moments of transition. That experience inspired me to become a mentor for early-career design professionals.

Over the past two years, I've supported 50+ mentees through career pivots, portfolio building, and personal development, offering the kind of clarity I once sought.

Mentorship has shaped me as a leader. It's taught me to listen deeply, communicate with empathy, and guide others through ambiguity. Just as I aim to support others, I'm constantly learning from their stories, challenges, and resilience — which, in turn, makes me a more thoughtful creative and collaborator.

View my ADPList profile

Life outside design

Experiences that spark creativity and keep curiosity alive.

Each of these passions shapes how I see the world and the energy I bring into my work.

Exploring cultures through food, wherever I go.
Celebrating every moment through dance.
Training my mind and body to move forward.

Shared platters of injera and stews at a restaurant counter — Exploring cultures through food