Michael Helman
About Michael Helman
Michael Helman is a Senior Manager of Digital Solutions at US Foods, with over 20 years of experience in creative direction, software development, and information architecture. He has held various roles in notable companies, including Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois and America's Best Companies, and he specializes in design thinking and user experience.
Current Role at US Foods
Michael Helman serves as the Senior Manager of Digital Solutions at US Foods, a position he has held since 2019. In this role, he is responsible for enhancing the company's digital strategy and solutions. His focus includes improving business and e-commerce operations, vendor relations, and product management. He engages with various stakeholders, including product management, development, QA, customers, and executive teams, to drive innovation and meet user needs.
Previous Experience in Digital Design
Prior to his current role, Michael Helman worked at US Foods in various capacities, including Senior Manager of UX Design & Development from 2015 to 2019 and User Experience Architect from 2014 to 2015. He also held the position of UI Web Designer (Contract) from 2013 to 2014. His earlier experience includes working as a Senior Web Designer / Front-End Developer at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Illinois from 2009 to 2012, and as a Creative Director / Information Architect at America's Best Companies from 2008 to 2009.
Creative Direction and Consulting
In addition to his role at US Foods, Michael Helman is the Creative Director, Consultant, and Owner of Flying Monkeys Studio, a position he has maintained since 1997. His expertise lies in running design thinking ideations and prototyping to foster innovation. He specializes in understanding user needs to deliver effective market-leading solutions, leveraging over 20 years of experience in creative direction and information architecture.
Educational Background
Michael Helman studied at Columbia College Chicago, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Communication Arts with a focus on Animation. He also attended Moraine Valley Community College, obtaining an Associate's degree in Liberal Arts. His foundational education began at Carl Sandburg High School, which set the stage for his career in design and digital solutions.
Professional Skills and Specializations
Michael Helman possesses a rich background in creative direction, software development, and information architecture. He is adept at stakeholder engagement and has a proven track record of collaborating with product management, development teams, and executive leadership. His specialization in design thinking and user experience positions him to effectively drive innovation and deliver solutions that meet market demands.