Joanna Jablonski

Design Manager
Henricksen
Itasca, IL 60143

Joanna Jablonski is an accomplished Design Manager at Henricksen, where she has built a distinguished 20-year career in the commercial furniture industry. Having been with Henricksen for over nine years, she was recently promoted to Design Manager, overseeing a team of ten talented designers. In this leadership role, Joanna plays a pivotal part in implementing new technologies and tools across the organization’s 90 designers and multiple departments, with a strong focus on AI integration and workflow optimization. Her expertise combines creativity, functionality, and innovation—qualities that have defined her success in creating inspiring, efficient workplace environments.

Originally from Poland, Joanna’s professional journey reflects both courage and reinvention. After immigrating to the United States, she transitioned from a background in art and architecture to commercial interior design—an evolution sparked by her early fascination with design showcased on television. Her education at The Illinois Institute of Art–Schaumburg and her LEED AP ID+C certification provided the foundation for a career rooted in sustainability, collaboration, and excellence. Over the years, Joanna has contributed to high-profile projects such as The Kraft Heinz Company’s headquarters and CDW’s Chicago office, earning a reputation for her strategic design thinking and commitment to quality.

Joanna’s leadership philosophy is inspired by mentors Ann Cotton and Jane Kelp, and centers on explaining the “why” behind every task to foster understanding, trust, and engagement within her team. Dedicated to mentorship and continuous learning, she regularly organizes biweekly 15-minute design calls to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration across the organization. She also serves on the board for Configura, plans to rejoin IIDA, and is active in professional groups such as the Design Managers and Leaders Circle and the Smart Girl Society, which promotes AI education for professional women. Beyond her professional pursuits, Joanna supports community efforts through Feed My Starving Children and a war kitchen initiative, exemplifying her belief in using her skills and leadership to make a meaningful impact both inside and outside the workplace.

• LEED Accredited Professional
• Interior Design Advanced Computer Applications
• Interior Design Advanced Lighting

• The Illinois Institute of Art-Schaumburg
• College of DuPage - AAS
• Lodz University of Technology
• School of Fine Arts, Lodz-Poland

• Phi Theta Kappa Society
• American Society of Interior Designers - Student Chapter

Q

What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to unwavering hard work and perseverance. No matter the challenges I’ve faced, I’ve remained determined to push forward, learn from setbacks, and stay focused on my goals. My ability to adapt, stay resilient, and never give up in the face of adversity has been the driving force behind my personal and professional growth.

Q

What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are integrity, continuous learning, collaboration, and empathy. I’ve been fortunate to be guided by mentors like Ann Cotton and Jane Kelp, who have inspired me to lead with purpose and curiosity. As a team lead and mentor myself, I believe in explaining the “why” behind tasks to foster understanding, ownership, and trust among team members. I take a proactive approach to learning—pursuing certifications such as LEED and WELL, exploring emerging tools like AI, and seeking growth opportunities beyond work hours. I’m proud to serve on the board for Configura, plan to rejoin IIDA, and stay engaged with groups like the Design Managers and Leaders Circle and the Smart Girl Society, where I can continue contributing to the professional community while giving back through volunteer initiatives like Feed My Starving Children and the war kitchen project.

Locations

Henricksen

Itasca, IL 60143

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