Dayna Hall Carter is a Brooklyn-based Executive Director of Creative + Technology.

Passionate about creating things for brands, shaping meaningful experiences, and scaling design organizations, she is currently leading digital design at Trade School for clients like The Home Depot, and was previously Design Director at Vox Media.

About Me

I’ve built my career at the intersection of design and technology, leading creative, engineering, and product teams at ad, tech, and media companies. From solving complex problems to creating innovative solutions for brands like Starbucks, Garmin, and L’Oréal, I thrive on building things, improving processes, and empowering others to do their best work. My teams have developed proprietary AI-powered tools and integrated emerging technologies into workflows to streamline processes, boost efficiency, and generate ad creative at scale. And while my work has been recognized for digital innovation and creative marketing, what truly motivates me is fostering equitable and inclusive spaces where teams—and bold ideas—grow.

  • At Vox Media, I led a talented group of visual and product designers to create impactful, consumer-facing initiatives across 18 networks, including, Eater, Popsugar, The Cut, The Verge, and New York Magazine. Today, as Executive Director of Creative + Technology at Trade School, I partner with our clients to craft strategic visions, elevate creative standards, and launch innovative products and services that deliver real results. I’m a rare creative who loves process—and I build teams grounded in the understanding that trying new things requires embracing mistakes and learning from them along the way.

    Off the clock, you’ll find me chasing new adventures, whether it’s collecting passport stamps or guiding my two boys away from becoming New York sports fans. I’m also passionate about giving back, spending my free time mentoring emerging creative talent on ADPList or sharing my expertise as a guest lecturer at Berkeley and Bloomfield Colleges.

Where I Excel

I specialize in growing teams, nurturing individuals, and refining design processes for positive impact. I’m guided by a deep commitment to the end user and a belief that blending creativity with thoughtful strategy leads to impactful, human-centered solutions. My expertise includes visual & product design, design operations, strategy, coaching & mentoring, and stakeholder management—all within the digital landscape.

Working With Me

As a Design Director, Dayna ensured our team's design processes were efficient and refined as needed, and also advocated for our needs and concerns whenever any issues would arise. She led our team incredibly and was never afraid to roll up her sleeves and put in work with us whenever the demand was high or if we were a few hands short.
Senior Visual Designer, Vox Media

A great partner is not just someone you collaborate with; they are someone who amplifies strengths and provides support to overcome weaknesses. Dayna was that partner on every project. A joy to work with!
Product Lead, Vox Media

Dayna helped me navigate the beginnings of my design career and set me up for advocating for myself and my career. Truly thankful I got her guidance and support.a A true and honest leader! And just truly fun to work with.
Systems Architect, Kohler Energy

Dayna knows the digital space and is open and willing to take the time and explain it to anyone that asks. There are no egos with her; she's a great leader, but also humble and has no problem asking for help.
Vice President Associate Creative Director, Havas Gemini