Nicole Buikema
About Nicole Buikema
Nicole Buikema is the Lead Design Researcher at InVision in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with a strong background in experience design and user research.
Company InVision
Nicole Buikema is currently a Lead Design Researcher at InVision, based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States. She spearheads the establishment of research practices within the company, effectively creating processes and infrastructure to scale and adapt research activities. Her role involves conducting crucial research to uncover opportunities for human-centered innovation. Nicole is active in engaging collaborators throughout the research and synthesis process, generating actionable insights to improve user workflows.
Previous Roles at Meijer
Nicole Buikema held several key positions at Meijer, a noteworthy American supercenter chain. She worked as a Lead User Experience Researcher from 2021 to 2022 in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she utilized her experience design skills in the digital and ecommerce space. Prior to this role, she was an Experience Design Strategist from 2018 to 2021, leveraging her expertise to create innovative user experiences. Additionally, she was a Digital Project Manager for 3 months in 2018, which marked her initial involvement with the company.
Career at Elevator Up and SDI Consulting, LLC
Nicole Buikema's career includes significant tenures at Elevator Up and SDI Consulting, LLC. At Elevator Up, she served as a Product Manager from 2017 to 2018 in the Greater Grand Rapids, Michigan Area. Prior to that, she was an Associate Consultant at SDI Consulting, LLC for 4 years, focusing on a variety of consulting projects in the Greater Grand Rapids, Michigan Area. These roles allowed her to develop and refine her skills in project management and consultancy.
Marketing Internship and Early Career
Early in her career, Nicole Buikema gained valuable experience through various positions. She worked as a Marketing Intern at YFU International in Muskegon, MI in 2012, gaining experience in marketing strategies. Following this, she was an Administrative Assistant at Advantage Research Services, Inc. from 2012 to 2013, where she supported administrative operations. Her early career also included a role as a Consultant at SDI Consulting, LLC, further demonstrating her diverse skill set.
Education and Academic Background
Nicole Buikema has a strong academic foundation, having studied at Cornerstone University from 2009 to 2013, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in International Business. Additionally, she participated in the Latin America Studies Program with a concentration in International Business, Spanish, and Contemporary Issues in 2011 for 11 months. This international exposure provided her with a unique perspective and a broader understanding of global business practices.