Our Team
Harnessing the power of cognitive science, our expert team transforms your data into compelling narratives that captivate and persuade. We specialize in crafting presentations that not only inform but also inspire, utilizing advanced data storytelling techniques to ensure your message resonates and drives action.
Product
Steve Franconeri
CEO & Founder
Dr. Steven Franconeri, a cognitive scientist with a PhD from Harvard University, is a Professor of Psychology at Northwestern University, holding additional appointments at the Kellogg School of Management, HCI+Design, and Computer Science. He leads a prominent research lab focused on the cognitive science of data visualization and science communication. Franconeri is widely recognized as an expert in data storytelling, dashboard design, and persuasive presentation, synthesizing insights from cognitive science, education, design, and rhetoric to develop practical guidelines.
Willis Tiao
Head of Product, Product Designer
Willis has worked for 8 years as a Product Designer and Front End Developer. He is passionate about bringing ideas to fruition and enjoys getting involved in the process, from design to development. In his free time, Willis likes to go surfing and play guitar.
Evan Vlahandreas
User Research & Product Strategy Lead
Evan Vlahandreas recently received his Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science and French from Northwestern University. He has worked as a UX researcher and data scientist for various companies with international experience in Education, Tech, CPG, and Health & Wellness. He is passionate about the design research process, understanding behaviors, uncovering pain points, and simply speaking with users face-to-face. Outside of work, Evan is interested in language learning, exploring new cities, and swimming.
Engineering
Luke Arnold
Back End Engineer
Luke is a full-stack developer at Experception with a special penchant for weedy problems around low-level concurrency and parallelism. He recently graduated from Northwestern University with majors in Computer Science and Theater, and is always looking for ways to blend the worlds of artistic expression and technical elegance in his work. Luke lives in Chicago, IL, and enjoys beach volleyball, reading, and playing Rocket League in his free time.
Ron Gilchrist
Head of Engineering
Ron has over 25 years experience herding pixels and bits as a software developer. When he isn't coding, he likes to play piano, make spontaneous metaphors (bad puns), and sizzle outside in the Phoenix sunshine.
Vivian Chen
Front End Engineer
Vivian has a background in biomedical sciences (bachelor's) and oral sciences (master's). Recently, Vivian switched gears to web development and is greatly enjoying the challenge! Most recently she has been working to develop an innovative, modern app with everyone on the team!
Advisors & Consultants
Billy Barkhausen
Senior Consultant
Billy Barkhausen serves as ExperCeption's Managing Director, leading HR and Finance and supporting company strategy and client workshop facilitation. His diverse background spans Finance and Operations across CPG, Tech, Healthcare, and Retail. He holds an MBA from Kellogg at Northwestern University.
Leah Kim
Advisor
Leah brings over two decades of Marketing and Strategy expertise gained in Fortune 500 companies. Renowned for her adeptness in data storytelling, she excels in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with customer needs. Leah holds an MBA from Kellogg at Northwestern University and is fluent in five languages, reflecting her global perspective and communication prowess.
Want to join our team?
We're always on the lookout for talented individuals to join our dynamic and diverse team. At ExperCeption, we believe in fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where every voice is heard and every idea is valued. Contact us to learn more about available job openings.