The D&AD Awards are among the most highly regarded competitions in advertising and design. Since 1963, the most creatively outstanding works of the year have been recognized across a wide range of categories. However, receiving one of the coveted Pencils is not the only form of recognition – the opportunity to serve on a jury is itself an honor: Only those who have demonstrated exceptional creative excellence are considered qualified to evaluate the work of others. 

 

For the 2025 competition, D&AD has invited Laura Ullmann, Design Director at the German branding and design agency Peter Schmidt Group, to join the Product Design jury, chaired by Kinya Tagawa. “Being able to judge at D&AD is an honor for me and will undoubtedly be a great source of inspiration,” says Laura. She is looking forward to reviewing the diverse range of submissions, all of which must address similar fundamental questions: “I am particularly interested in whether a product strengthens the brand and what impact it has on society – does it make our lives easier, more joyful, more sustainable, or even succeed in combining all these aspects?” 

 

Laura Ullmann’s past work demonstrates exactly this standard. One prime example is her own product innovation – the Cocolette. She developed this biodegradable alternative to plastic beach shoes from the initial concept all the way to market launch in retail. Since 2019, she has been part of the Peter Schmidt Group, and since 2024, she has led international brands in the beauty and lifestyle industry as Design Director. “Being appointed to the D&AD jury is a fantastic recognition of Laura’s work,” says Lukas Cottrell, Managing Partner of the Peter Schmidt Group. “I am personally delighted for her, but I am also thrilled about the path she has taken within our agency: Her development from Junior Designer to Director is impressive—and an example of the career opportunities available to talent within our agency.”