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.
Leadership
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.
Leah Kim
CMO
Leah Kim, the newly appointed CMO of ExperCeption, 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.
Billy Barkhausen
Managing Director
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.
Engineering
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.
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.
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!
Program
Steven Aiello
Technical Program Manager
Steven, is a seasoned technical leader with extensive experience in project management, stakeholder management, and team leadership. Steven excels in driving business strategy and execution through technical leadership and cross-functional collaboration. He has a strong track record of building and managing successful pre-sales solution consulting and professional services teams. Outside of work Steven has a passion for fitness, his children and wonderful girlfriend Rachel.
Product
Willis Tiao
Head of Product, Product Designer
Willis has worked for 7 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.
Summer Interns
Lana Sheng
Project Management Intern
Lana Sheng is ExperCeption’s Project Management intern. She is currently studying psychology, economics, and data science at Northwestern University. She is interested in business strategy and enjoys how her role enables her to talk to so many different team members. Her hobbies include playing tennis and cooking.
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.
Stacey Scolinos
Marketing Intern
Stacey has 5 years of marketing experience and has marketing and communications experience in government and startup roles. She is currently pursuing an MBA at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University with a major in marketing. She loves languages and currently speaks four. In her spare time she enjoys tennis, and hanging out with her husky.
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.