Gary Howe is the creative force behind Ascendum’s design-first mindset. Gary fell in love everything mobile after the first iPhone was announced on stage in 2007. He left his position as an Art Director at Saatchi & Saatchi to pursue a future in the digital design space. As Vice President of Design, he’s redefined how design drives business impact, building not just beautiful interfaces but brand-defining experiences.‍

“Keep the wonder from childhood alive, and question everything."‍

With over 20 years in global design leadership, Gary believes design should lead, not follow, and he’s made that belief a reality across Ascendum’s work. He founded Curio, Ascendum’s internal design studio, to create a culture where curiosity thrives and designers are empowered to lead with purpose. Under his leadership, Curio has grown from a UI team into a multidisciplinary powerhouse in UX strategy, branding, motion, and product design, earning Ascendum prestigious honors like multiple Webby Awards and recognition from Fast Company as a Best Workplace for Innovators.

Gary’s approach blends playfulness and passion, “Keep the wonder from childhood alive, and question everything.” is his design mantra, and it shows in every prototype, workshop, and client interaction. He mentors generously, challenges assumptions, and leads sessions that often turn skeptics into fans after a single brainstorm.

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Based in Cambridge, England, Gary brings global perspective and tireless energy to every project. His leadership continues to shape Ascendum’s creative DNA, and inspires digital solutions that resonate and endure.