Hi, I'm Slava Kovalska.
I'm a Lead Growth Product Designer with 10+ years of experience working on activation, retention, and revenue. I focus on building products that not only look good but also perform and drive real results.
I came into product design through accounting, which shaped how I think about products and decisions. I naturally look at things through a business lens. I don't just design screens. I define problems, prioritise what matters, and focus on solutions that move key metrics.
My work sits between design and product strategy. I work closely with product managers and engineers to identify opportunities, test ideas, run experiments, and make thoughtful trade-offs between user value and business goals.
Over the years, I've worked with startups, SMBs, and global companies including Canva. I've led growth design across the full funnel, from the first interaction through activation and engagement to retention and monetisation.
My journey
Lead Growth Product Designer
2022 - Present
Canva
Growth design across B2B and B2C funnels: from activating new users to expanding teams into SMB and Enterprise.
Senior Growth Product Designer
2021 - 2022
SafetyCulture
Improved activation and retention on web and mobile for inspectors, managers, and frontline workers using the platform for audits, training, and risk management.
Senior Product Designer
2020 - 2021
Archistar
Co-designed with founders to turn complex property workflows into intuitive experiences for developers, builders, government planners, and real estate agents.
Growth Product Designer
2018 - 2020
Deputy
Focused on trial-to-paid conversion and 90-day retention post-upgrade for team members, managers, and owners across hospitality, healthcare, and retail.
UX/UI Designer
2017 - 2018
Sentia Australia
Agency-side product design for startups and entrepreneurs, shipped MVPs across web, iOS, and Android.
Accountant
2008 - 2017
Harvey Norman, Jax Tyres +2 more
Nine years across accounting roles in Australia and Ukraine — built a commercial foundation in budgeting, forecasting, P&L analysis, and payroll. The experience that now shapes how I think about design, business impact, and the numbers behind both.
Mentoring designers at ADPList
I'm so grateful to be a part of such an amazing design community. If you're looking for a mentor or just keen to chat about all things design let's connect!
Book mentoring session
When I'm not designing
You'll find me on a long walk, nose-deep in a book, or soaking up the sun on my balcony tending to my plants 🌱
