UX Design Consultants in Canada to Watch

UX Design Consulting Services in Canada

Canada UX Experts to Know in 2025

When you think about the vibrant cities of Canada — from Toronto’s buzzing tech hubs to Vancouver’s innovative startup scene and Montreal’s creative energy — you’re also thinking about the growing influence of UX design consultants shaping the digital landscape in these areas. In 2025, the role of UX experts is more vital than ever, helping companies craft user-centric digital experiences that define how Canadians interact with technology every day.

Whether freelance, solo operators, or part of specialized firms, these consultants bring unique strategies, deep industry expertise, and innovative methodologies that contribute not only to business success but also to the broader digital ecosystem. At Digital Reference, we’ve carefully curated this list of Canada-based UX design consultants through rigorous research and evaluation. Our methodology involved deep dives into their portfolios, client testimonials, thought leadership, and their impact within their communities.

Our Methodology

Our selection process was robust and intentional. We focused exclusively on UX design consultants physically located in Canada or leading teams based here. We looked at:

• Depth of experience across different industries (from fintech to healthcare)
• Client success stories highlighting measurable impact
• Thought leadership including webinars, blogs, and speaking engagements
• Innovative approaches to UX and human-centered design
• Unique HR and team-building strategies that enhance collaboration and creativity

We included solo consultants, freelancers, and firms, understanding that UX expertise comes in many shapes and sizes. This ensures that no matter your project scale or needs, you have access to top Canadian talent.

Tara Bassili

Founder, Cairn UX
LinkedIn | Cairn UX

Tara Bassili’s work with Cairn UX stands out for a deeply human-centered approach that balances business goals with the real needs of users. Operating primarily in the Toronto area, Tara’s expertise lies in designing intuitive, accessible experiences that drive engagement and retention. She blends usability testing, user research, and iterative design processes to solve complex UX challenges.

• 🔹 Human-first design philosophy: Tara champions empathetic design that prioritizes diverse user needs.
• 🔹 Strong portfolio in fintech and education sectors: Delivering seamless digital experiences with measurable KPIs.
• 🔹 Mentorship and community impact: Actively involved in local UX meetups and workshops, fostering growth in the Canadian UX ecosystem.

Her ability to bridge business strategy with creative UX solutions makes her a trusted partner for startups and established businesses alike.

Elizabeth Creighton

Founder, Brazen
LinkedIn | Brazen

Elizabeth Creighton combines data-driven insights with a passion for storytelling to craft UX designs that resonate on an emotional level. Based in Vancouver, Elizabeth has been instrumental in Brazen’s success as a platform that transforms digital hiring experiences.

• 🔹 Innovator in recruitment UX: Elizabeth has redefined candidate engagement through conversational interfaces and real-time interaction design.
• 🔹 Collaborative leadership: Leads cross-functional teams integrating UX with product and marketing strategies.
• 🔹 Published thought leader: Regularly contributes to UX journals and speaks at industry events, shaping future design trends.

Her unique focus on the intersection of UX and HR technology exemplifies how specialized UX can revolutionize traditional sectors.

Mariana Bertaglia

Co-founder, UX Wise
LinkedIn | UX Wise

Mariana Bertaglia co-founded UX Wise with a mission to bring data-driven and strategic UX consulting to Canadian businesses. Based in Toronto, Mariana combines her background in user research with a passion for inclusive design, helping organizations create impactful digital experiences that meet real user needs.

• 🔹 Expert in UX research and strategy: Mariana leads comprehensive user research initiatives that uncover key insights.
• 🔹 Focus on inclusivity: Advocates for designing with accessibility and diversity top of mind.
• 🔹 Empowering clients: Known for delivering workshops and training that build internal UX capabilities for long-term growth.
• 🔹 Cross-industry impact: Has successfully consulted for sectors including healthcare, finance, and education, tailoring UX approaches accordingly.

Mariana’s hands-on and collaborative approach makes UX Wise a trusted partner for businesses looking to mature their user experience practices with measurable results.

Anthony Hempbell

Founder, Antenna UX
LinkedIn | Antenna UX

Anthony Hempbell has built a reputation in Montreal as a strategic thinker whose UX work goes beyond aesthetics to deliver measurable business outcomes. He specializes in integrating user research with business analysis to craft compelling user journeys.

• 🔹 Strong background in enterprise UX: Works with clients to implement UX governance and scalable design systems.
• 🔹 Focus on accessibility: Advocates for inclusive design practices that expand digital reach.
• 🔹 Speaker and mentor: Regularly supports UX students and professionals through speaking engagements and mentorship.

Anthony’s holistic approach blends technical UX skills with business acumen, making him a pivotal figure in the Canadian UX community.

Steve Coppola

Founder, Input UX
LinkedIn | Input UX

Steve Coppola’s Input UX is a boutique consultancy rooted in Vancouver but working nationwide. Steve’s specialty is simplifying complex systems, ensuring digital products are intuitive and delightful. His client roster spans government agencies, healthcare providers, and startups.

• 🔹 Expert in user research and wireframing: Leads detailed discovery phases to build user personas and journey maps.
• 🔹 Human-centered problem solver: Focuses on user empathy to reduce friction and improve satisfaction.
• 🔹 Strong collaborative skills: Builds bridges between design, development, and business teams for cohesive project delivery.

Steve’s reputation for thoughtful, thorough UX work makes him a go-to consultant for organizations aiming to elevate their digital presence.

Elia Kanaki

Founder, ROSSUL
LinkedIn | ROSSUL

Elia Kanaki’s multidisciplinary approach at ROSSUL brings fresh perspectives to UX/UI design. Working primarily in Toronto, Elia is a passionate advocate for design thinking and human-centered innovation.

• 🔹 Proven track record in brand experience: Seamlessly integrates visual design with usability.
• 🔹 Innovator in digital transformation: Helps organizations pivot successfully to customer-centric digital models.
• 🔹 Workshop facilitator: Leads design sprints and ideation sessions to drive innovation.

Elia’s dynamic approach reflects a commitment to pushing the boundaries of UX design beyond just screens into full user ecosystems.

Brett Maraldo

Founder, Usability Now
LinkedIn | Usability Now

Brett Maraldo is a usability veteran based in Ottawa who’s been helping companies optimize their digital touchpoints for over 15 years. His work is defined by a pragmatic focus on testing, iteration, and measurable results.

• 🔹 Specialist in usability testing and user feedback analysis: Uses data to drive design improvements.
• 🔹 Experienced trainer: Offers workshops that empower teams to integrate UX best practices into everyday workflows.
• 🔹 Authoritative voice: Regularly contributes to UX blogs and podcasts sharing actionable insights.

Brett’s approach to UX is grounded in real-world evidence and continuous learning, making him an invaluable consultant for clients focused on sustained UX success.

Michael Penn

Founder, ipenn-design
LinkedIn | ipenn-design

Michael Penn leads ipenn-design with a focus on creating clean, user-friendly interfaces that elevate brand identity.Operating out of Toronto, Michael’s design sensibility balances aesthetics with functionality.

• 🔹 Strong background in product design and branding: Delivers cohesive digital experiences that resonate emotionally.
• 🔹 Hands-on UX strategist: Works closely with clients from concept to launch.
• 🔹 Innovative problem solver: Known for creative solutions to complex UX challenges.

Michael’s boutique approach ensures personalized service and meticulous attention to detail, ideal for clients wanting a distinctive UX voice.

Wrapping Up: Why These UX Consultants Matter to Canada’s Digital Future

Canada’s cities are evolving into digital innovation centers thanks in large part to the efforts of UX professionals dedicated to shaping user experiences that work for everyone. From accessibility advocates like Anthony Hempbell to innovation drivers like Elizabeth Creighton, these consultants represent the diverse, rich talent pushing Canadian digital products forward.

Looking for the best UX design consultants in Canada? You’re in the right place — and these professionals are the ones to watch in 2025.

Want to explore other UX hubs?

• UX Design Consulting Services in the USA
• UX Design Consulting Services in the UK
• UX Design Consulting Services in Australia

At Digital Reference, we’re proud to spotlight these exceptional UX experts who embody the values of human-centered design, collaboration, and measurable impact.