David Hurlbut

About David Hurlbut

I am a researcher obsessed with helping brands enhance their understanding of their products and consumers to make strategic decisions. Whether I am building an auto insurance company from the ground up or envisioning new products to empower the next generation of community builders, I thrive on 0->1 projects where I can lead research to help bring new products and experiences to market.I have 10+ years of experience doing research in both applied and academic settings in the United States and abroad. While I have worked across categories from toys to finance, I have a particular interest in consumer tech (esp. community apps), insurance (esp. Medicare), and retail. I\'ve honed my research skills as an academic. I design and execute award-winning research projects on culture in Africa requiring high levels of intercultural competence and deep empathy. These qualities give me a fearless ability to connect with consumers from diverse backgrounds on topics ranging from sexual health to snacks as an insights professional. I enjoy making new connections, so please feel free to reach out if you want to connect, discuss leaving academia, or simply chat about African history, gravel cycling, gardening, or where to find the best cup of coffee.My friends call me Dima—short for Dmitri, my middle name.

Experience

1. Lead Ux Researcher Gm Insurance

   GM Financial

   May 2024 — Present

   As the first full-time researcher at General Motors (GM) Insurance – GM’s personalized telematics-based insurance product for Chevrolet, GMC, Buick, and Cadillac owners – I’m responsible for building a research practice from the ground up. I collaborate with product managers, designers, data scientists, engineers, and the senior leadership team to design and execute research to drive the development of the digital self-service experience for our customers and to inform the creation and marketing of new insurance products.

Education

• Lewis & Clark College

  Bachelor of Arts - BA, summa cum laude

• Boston University

  Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

• Boston University

  Master of Arts - MA