Jobs That Make a Difference: Kim Russell

At Cengage Group, our mission-driven culture creates jobs that make a difference in the lives of learners. Working here means having a direct impact by helping students around the world discover the power and joy of learning. From Sales Consultants to Senior Directors of Customer Success, our people help give learners the choice in how, where and what they learn. 

We spoke with Kim R., SVP, Research, User Experience and Design, about why she is passionate about putting learners at the center of every decision and designing solutions that truly meet their needs.

 

How does your role and the work you do help students and teachers?

We are laser focused on understanding our customers. We do deep research on their needs, goals and pain points. We engage thousands of educators and learners in a variety of studies every year across every market we serve. This understanding is what shapes our educational products. We put students and teachers at the center of every decision we make. We build with them to ensure that our products solve real problems and support their goals.

What is something you're proud of that has impacted learners?

There have been many moments of pride for me over the years. Our research is used in the creation and evolution of our materials and seeing those products being used to enhance the learning experience is very cool. We recently released the AI Student Assistant; a personalized tutor that helps students solve problems and enhance their learning experience. This resource does not provide students with answers but guides them through the learning process. We did so much research with students and educators as we developed this tool, and it is rewarding to see it have such a positive impact. One student shared, “I love that the student assistant can ask questions back to the student instead of the student carrying the conversation, because for some students they don't exactly know what they should be asking the assistant so the assistant helps the student think in a different way.” This is why we do what we do and seeing the positive impact on students is so fulfilling.

What motivated you to work at Cengage Group and in edtech?

I have always worked in education and always will! Doing work that makes a meaningful impact on people’s lives is essential for me. I joined Cengage Group over 20 years ago because of the company’s dedication to education and their incredible products – many of which I used in my educational experience. Cengage Group’s commitment to learners and educators has never wavered. We continue to support them by delivering dynamic, trusted and quality materials.

What has kept you at Cengage for the majority of your career?

I have held a variety of different roles during my time at Cengage Group. I knew when I joined that I wanted to explore different career paths, and I have been able to do that here. I have been encouraged, supported and challenged. I have had opportunities to learn and grow. I have had mentors and been a mentor. Cengage Group supports career development. In addition, it is all about the people. I get the opportunity to work with incredibly smart, dedicated and passionate colleagues.

In what ways have the opportunities at Cengage Group contributed to your career growth? 

I joined Cengage Group with the goal of experiencing different roles. I have had roles in marketing, product, brand, market development and research. These roles gave me a comprehensive understanding of our business, the impact our products have on educators and learners and myself. I have enjoyed every role I have had over the years and have taken the learnings with me as I advanced in my career.

 

Learn more: 

Cengage Group employees make an impact and change the world. Here, transparency and collaboration are core values. We provide challenging careers, competitive benefits, a strong technology focus and a great team of co-workers and customers. 

To learn more and apply for an open role, visit the careers section of our website.