I met Randy through my friend Ryan Feerer the last time I was in NYC. When I got to the Etsy office in Brooklyn, Randy and his girlfriend, Taylor (Kelsey), were involved in a fierce ping pong match. After a short adventure of Randy dancing on the roof, and a piece of metal tearing Taylor’s favourite pants, we enjoyed a few candy cigarettes to relax.

Meet Randy.

What do you do?

I’m the Creative Director at Etsy. For people who aren’t familiar with Etsy, it’s an incredible marketplace and community of creative businesses in over 150 countries.

I look at the end-to-end experience people have with Etsy, from the promotion you see at an event, to the interface you use when you buy an item, to the email you check on your phone when some one has sent you a message. I help a team of designers execute that all in a way that is true to our values, expresses the unique personality that is Etsy, and is…well…awesome! In short, it’s my job to make sure good design happens. The secret (shhh…) is getting a bunch of really talented people that enjoy each other together, and making sure they have the tools, time, and information they need to do their best work. In some sense, I’m a design cheerleader with a critical eye.

What inspires you?

In life: High- and low- culture. Fine dining and an old pair of shoes. My friends and my family.
In work: complex problems. I work to solve problems. If the project doesn’t have a clear problem to solve, I create one. It’s in the solution that I do my best work and feel most fulfilled

What are the things you like to do when you aren’t working at the amazing Etsy offices?

I love reading, watching films, and eating great food with good company. Simple things, really. And my favorite thing is spending time with my girlfriend.

Most people don’t know about your friendship with Jay-Z. Care to share any details? (Don’t be shy, I’ve seen the painting)

Back when I was growing up in Marcy Houses…oh, wait. No, I just love good rap. Jay-Z’s one of the best.

How many dance contests have you won?

Not a one. In fact, I don’t think I’ve ever been in a dance competition.

If you could choose a different profession than what you do now, what would it be?

I love the idea of being a professional poet, partly because I’m not sure that even exists.

Tell us your true thoughts about Ryan Feerer’s facial hair.

It makes him look like a man. He needs it.

Thank you Randy for letting me spend some time with you and Taylor at the Etsy office. I had so much fun!