HI CIty of Toronto
I’m Shashaank – a UX Designer, passionate about building a better Toronto.
I believe great design isn't just about aesthetics—it's about making everyday experiences easier, more accessible, and more meaningful.
With 7 years of experience across startups, scale-ups, and enterprise tech, I specialize in user research, intuitive design, and cross-functional collaboration to create impactful digital experiences. Now, I’m eager to bring my skills to my hometown, The City of Toronto, where I can help shape public services that truly make a difference.
Google Chrome
2022-present, Washington DC
At Google, I design for Chrome on iOS, focusing on growth, user education, and customization to improve engagement.
Nylas
2021-2022, Remote
At Nylas, I designed developer tools that improved workflows for internal teams and external developers.
Additionally I conducted user research and usability testing to inform my redesign of the API reference library making it clearer and more accessible.
Spark RE
2019-2021, Vancouver BC
As one of Spark’s first design hires, I played a foundational role in shaping the experience of the platform.
I led the design of the contract writing and email integration features, which helped onboard 10+ new clients.
What I bring to the table
I believe my breadth of experience across different environments—from agile startups to structured enterprise settings—has given me the adaptability, problem-solving skills, and user insight needed to navigate a complex public-sector organization effectively.
At Spark and Nylas, I worked as a design generalist, collaborating across product, research, and front-end development. At Google, I learned how to advocate for users at scale, balancing design vision with real-world constraints in a large organization. This combination of hands-on execution and big-picture thinking makes me well-equipped to take on the challenges of designing for civic impact.
Beyond my professional background, I have a deep passion for urban design. I want to contribute to a safer, more accessible, and more efficient Toronto—one where cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers can navigate the city safely and intuitively. This role is an opportunity to step into the public sphere and use my skills to help shape Toronto’s digital and physical infrastructure for the better.
Toronto Projects I’m excited about
Railpath Expansion
I adore the West Toronto railpath, it’s a wonderful space where cyclists are pedestrians can safely and quickly traverse the city without the risk of cars.
GO Improvements
Having grown up just outside of Toronto, GO transit has been my primary entry point into the city. Continued investment in our suburban rail makes the Toronto’s transit network more robust and accessible.
Toronto MURA
Community Land trusts are such important, community led initiatives to ensure housing in the city is affordable and locally driven. I love that the city is investing and supporting these efforts to create more affordable housing.