Mike Byrne

Engineering Director, Interface

In his role as Engineering Director, Interface, Mike helps shape the agency’s engineering principles, methodologies and process. As an outspoken advocate of design simplicity, he works closely with the design team to ensure the highest level of front-end performance. His key engagements include Aol, ESPN, Apple, Doha Film Institute, Dering Hall, Webby Awards, Charlie Rose, Unpakt, BurdaStyle, Billboard, Maison&Objet and Vice.

After earning a degree in Design from Salford University, Mike began his career as a designer and animator. Early on, he was so enthralled by the challenges of interface development, he barely noticed his transition from design to engineering. Originally from Manchester, England, Mike worked for several local digital studios. He began working with AREA 17 in 2008, then in 2011, he moved to New York to join the agency full-time. Now back in Manchester, Mike still spends quality time in the Paris and New York studios. Through writing and teaching, Mike is a passionate contributor to the front-end developer community.

When not talking about cars or watching Formula 1, Mike enjoys long distance running, dancing, handstanding and inline skating at his local skate park. Recently he has become a volunteer dog walker at his local animal shelter. As the self-appointed magic sauce of AREA 17, Mike dazzles us with inter-studio emails on the historical significance of company holidays. Don’t get him started on Napoleon Bonaparte!