Kris Ellery

Principal Software Engineer • Front-End & Design Systems Expert • Performance Optimization

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Career

As a Principal Software Engineer, I lead teams in crafting fast, accessible web experiences that users love. With 15+ years in front-end development, I combine technical expertise with a passion for continuous learning to build solutions that make a real difference.

Principal Software Development Engineer at Zillow

Dallas, TX (Remote) • May 2021 - Present

As the most-visited real estate website in the United States, Zillow offers customers an on-demand experience for selling, buying, renting and financing with transparency and nearly seamless end-to-end service.

Technical lead who modernized Zillow's design system infrastructure, architected a next-gen UI library with Panda CSS and TypeScript, and engineered performance solutions that significantly improved Core Web Vitals across high-traffic properties.

Senior JavaScript Engineer at Cofense

Dallas, TX (Remote) • Sep 2017 - May 2021

Cofense empowers people to recognize phishing attacks and stop them in minutes, not days. Their end-to-end phishing defense solution combines cutting-edge technology with collective human intelligence to protect organizations from inbox to SOC.

Developed phishing defense platforms using Vue.js and TypeScript while creating a 60+ component design system that standardized UIs across products and improved development efficiency.

Senior Interactive Developer at Hawkeye

Charlotte, NC and Dallas, TX • Nov 2013 - Aug 2017

Hawkeye is an advertising agency specializing in extraordinary ideas by leveraging data, creativity, and technology. Owned by Publicis Groupe and Epsilon, Hawkeye delivers top-notch solutions for domestic and international brands.

Built award-winning web experiences for major brands like BestBuy and Capital One, developing SPAs with Ember.js and establishing front-end standards that improved team productivity.

Web Designer & Developer at Red Ventures

Fort Mill, SC • Apr 2013 - Nov 2013

Red Ventures is a portfolio of brands and digital platforms that improves every aspect of the consumer journey, helping people make better decisions while unleashing transformative growth for their businesses and partners.

Created interactive web experiences including a proprietary live-chat platform and HBO's Game of Thrones map, while implementing data-driven design optimizations that improved conversion rates.

Information Technologist at Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI • May 2009 - Apr 2013

University Advancement supports Michigan State University in terms of money and advocacy by delivering an integrated program of communications, marketing, and engagement.

Engineered online giving platforms and accessible websites that enhanced university fundraising capabilities, with solutions recognized in industry publications and higher education conferences.