Disney Pin Trading is more than just a hobby. It is an amazing tradition where avid fans collect their favorite Disney images and icons and hold them close to their hearts.
Behind these awesome pins and magical memories are a group of talented designers bringing to life your favorite Disney moments.
One of these amazing Disney designers is Jes Willis!
Let’s get to know this amazing Cast Member and hear about her Disney career journey.
Meet Jes Willis
Jes is the product design manager for the Disney Pin Trading Center of Excellence.
She grew up in Long Island, NY, and frequently visited the Walt Disney World Resort with her family. These early vacations fostered a deep love and admiration for the company.
Jes dreamed of working for Disney one dy, but did not know where or how. “I grew up always wanting to work for the Walt Disney Company, I just didn’t know in what capacity. While my start may have been unique, I believe each of us has our own stories that lead and inspire others.”
A Leap of Faith
Jes took a leap of faith and decided one day to move to Florida. She did not have a job yet, but knew Disney was the end goal, and she was prepared to try anything to make her dream a reality.
Jes was given an amazing opportunity to freelance for Disney, which then led to a full-time contractor role.
What was her amazing first project? A Disney Trading pin!
Designing For Disney
Jes spent seven years designing Disney merchandise. However in July 2021, she was asked to create and lead the first Center of Excellence for Disney Pin Trading.
Today, Jes is the Product Design Manager, leading the design of a talented team of pin designers who design and create these amazing Disney pins.
Jes enjoys the fluidity of the role and finds herself wearing many hats. She enjoys the challenge of planning pin-trading events and views this as an opportunity to tell an unforgettable story.
“We typically have a grand idea – or maybe a few – and we whittle away at it like Geppetto in his workshop, constantly refining, shaping, and sometimes, when we break away a piece, we find a whole new story from a whole new idea and pivot. It is my favorite part of my job.”
Legacy Award Winner
Jes is not only an amazing designer and a talented cast member, but she is also a Walt Disney Legacy Award winner! Her passion for storytelling and her dedication to Disney make her an amazing leader and creative designer.
Her career advice to others? “Give 100% of whatever that day’s 100% is, and as long as you are 1% better than the day before, at the end of a year you are at least a 365% better person.”