How a Right-Hand Hire Transformed a Design Business

Hiring a trusted right-hand person can mark a turning point for a growing business. In a recent episode of the DesignDash Podcast, Laura Umansky and Melissa Grove shared how their working relationship evolved at Laura U Design Collective. Their discussion highlighted the challenges and rewards of bringing in someone to handle key operational roles. Laura Umansky realised she needed support soon after launching her firm. The workload—balancing design, client relationships, and business growth—quickly became overwhelming. But she wasn’t sure what kind of help she required or where to find it.

Melissa Grove initially joined as Director of Digital Marketing, with no background in design. Over time, her responsibilities expanded beyond marketing into broader operational tasks. As she took on more, she became Laura’s COO, proving that the right person doesn’t always come from the same industry. The role of a right-hand person often lacks a clear job title at first. What matters is their ability to handle tasks that free up the business owner’s time. In smaller firms, this person must also have enough authority to make decisions and drive growth. The hire depends heavily on the firm’s long-term vision and how it plans to scale.

Melissa’s transition from marketing to COO shows how the right hire can adapt and grow with a business. For Laura U Design Collective, bringing in a right-hand person wasn’t just about filling a gap—it was about creating space for the firm to develop. The decision reflects a broader lesson: sometimes, the best support comes from unexpected places.