Tara O’Neil

B.A.A, MDes, PhD
Professor, Doctor of Philosophy

Tara O’Neil’s career as a designer and strategist is marked by her deep involvement in retail design and strategic foresight. She has held key roles, including Chief Creative Officer and Vice President of Retail Design and Strategy at two of Toronto’s top design studios, where she focused on developing conceptual design and strategy for retail spaces. Her work in these positions centred on creating retail environments that engage customers in new and meaningful ways.

Her educational background, which includes a degree in Interior Design, a Master’s in Strategic Foresight and Innovation from OCAD University, and a PhD in Inclusive Design + Creative Technology Innovation from University College Dublin, has played a significant role in her professional approach. This education has enabled Tara to stay ahead in the dynamic fields of innovation and design.

In addition to her design skills, Tara is also proficient in strategic planning and futures thinking. As an adjunct professor at OCAD University, she shares her knowledge and insights with aspiring designers, contributing to the development of future professionals in the field. She brings her extensive experience and knowledge to Georgian College, where she serves as a professor in the Design and Visual Arts Department in Interior Design. In this role, she continues to shape and inspire the next generation of design professionals.