Mariia Rymer is a Senior Product Designer at Object First, with 5+ years of experience creating user-centred digital products, currently based in Warsaw (originally from Ukraine).
Mariia design mobile apps, web platforms, and complex multi-page systems with a focus on usability, clarity, and product impact.
How did you land your current role? Was it planned?
About two years ago, I was looking for an opportunity to join a product company that creates meaningful value for its customers. I wanted to work on a product with real impact. When I discovered an open position at Object First, the role felt like a great match for my experience and interests, so I decided to apply. Looking back, it turned out to be the right decision, as it gave me the opportunity to grow both professionally.
What are the key roles in your field of work, and why did you choose your current expertise?
I bridge the gap between user needs, business goals, and technical constraints. My role involves leading the end-to-end design process: from research and problem definition to wireframing, prototyping, visual design, testing, and developer handoff. I chose product design because I enjoy solving complex problems and turning them into intuitive, user-centred interfaces. What excites me the most is working in unfamiliar domains, quickly understanding complex products, and designing solutions that create real value.
Did you (or do you) have a role model in tech or business in general?
Yes, I do have a role model in tech industry: Brian Chesky, the CEO and co-founder of Airbnb. What inspires me about him is that he comes from a design background and has used design thinking as a foundation for building an entirely new category in the travel industry. His journey shows that design is not just about creating interfaces or visuals, it can shape products, influence business strategy, and even create completely new markets.
What are you most proud of in your career, so far?
I’m proud of having the opportunity to contribute to the design of a completely new product at Object First from the very beginning. When I joined, the storage and backup domain was completely new to me, so I spent a lot of time learning the technology and understanding the problems we were solving. It wasn’t easy at first, but seeing how that knowledge gradually translated into meaningful design decisions.
What does an average work day look like for you?
A typical day starts with a design sync where we review progress, discuss priorities, brainstorm ideas, and go over feedback or any design decisions that need alignment. The rest of my day is usually focused on high-priority design work, such as creating new user flows, designing features, and reviewing existing experiences to improve usability. I also collaborate closely with the product and engineering teams throughout the day to make sure we’re aligned and that designs are practical to implement.
Are there any specific skills or traits that you notice companies look for when you’re searching for roles in your field?
I think one of the most important qualities companies look for is the ability to learn and adapt. Design is constantly changing, with new tools, technologies, and ways of working appearing all the time. That’s why it’s important to stay curious and keep improving your skills.
This is especially true with AI. New design tools are coming out all the time, and being open to learning and trying new things helps designers stay up to date and create better products.
Has anyone ever tried to stop you from learning and developing in your professional life, or have you found the tech sector supportive?
Fortunately, I haven’t experienced anyone trying to hold me back in my career. Overall, I’ve found the tech industry to be supportive, and I’ve had opportunities to learn, grow, and take on new challenges throughout my career.
Have you ever faced insecurities and anxieties during your career, and how did you overcome them?
Of course. Career development is not always a linear process, and I think it’s completely normal to experience moments of uncertainty, challenges, and ups and downs along the way.
A few years ago, I also experienced design burnout, mainly caused by working long hours and spending too much time on repetitive, less inspiring tasks. What helped me overcome it was taking time to properly rest and reset, as well as reflecting on what kind of work motivates and fulfils me. I realized that it’s important to be proactive about finding projects where I can continue learning, growing, and feeling engaged.
Entering the world of work can be daunting. Do you have any words of advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed?
I completely understand that feeling. Starting a career can be challenging, especially in a competitive job market, but I believe that with motivation, persistence, and the willingness to improve, it is absolutely possible to find the right opportunity.
My advice would be to actively seek feedback and use it as a tool for growth. Whether it’s improving your skills, updating your CV, refining your portfolio, or learning how to present yourself better, every small improvement brings you closer to your goal.
Feedback can sometimes be difficult to hear, but it’s one of the best ways to understand what you can improve.
Most importantly, don’t give up. Keep learning, keep applying, and trust that with consistent effort, you’ll find the opportunity that’s right for you.
What advice would you give other women wanting to reach their career goals in technology?
My biggest piece of advice is to not wait until you feel fully prepared, just take the opportunity and trust that you’ll learn along the way. Stay curious, keep building your skills, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or speak up. Finding mentors and a supportive network can make a huge difference. And as you grow in your career, remember to support and encourage other women.
