JUROR 2023

Tim Kobe is a design leader, author and founder of the globally recognized strategic and experience design firm Eight Inc.

For over 30 years in design and a leader in Innovation and Branded Experience, Eight Inc. has worked with companies such as Apple, Virgin Atlantic Airways, Nike, Coke, Knoll and Citibank. The firm takes on an interdisciplinary and holistic approach, working across traditional disciplines including strategy, architecture, exhibition, interior design, product, communications and branding. Many projects have received international design awards and have been published across Asia, Europe, and the United States. His 11 studios and 200+ strategic designers and business creatives connect across 7 time zones and 3continents.

Graduating with honors in Environmental Design from Art Center College of Design, Pasadena in 1982, Tim is now a trustee at his alma matter and serves as Chairman of the Academic Affairs Committee. Prior to founding Eight Inc. in 1989, Tim became a founding partner in West Office Design Associates, focusing on museum and exhibition design and responsible for the master planning of museums and for several science museum exhibitions globally. He has also worked with Herb Rosenthal and Associates, the American Broadcasting Company, Murray Gelberg and at The Burdick.

Tim serves on the Board of Directors for the Grabhorn Institute in San Francisco and is part of the The Design Masterplan Committee chaired by Economic Development Board in Singapore. He frequently lectures and works with students at universities including Art Center College of Design, California College of Arts and Crafts, the San Francisco Academy of Art, Insead, National University of Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic School of Design.

Tim is a keynote speaker and speaks on topics surrounding design, innovation, technology and business valuation for many internationally known forums. He has been featured and recognized for his work in prominent publications like Harvard Business Review, Bloomberg, The Economist, Dezeen and Fast Company. His book, Return on Experience, was published in 2021.