SQSP Directory Expert Panel Certificates & Recognition

Recognizing the Professionals Behind Great Design

At SQSP Directory, our Expert Panel is made up of experienced Squarespace designers, developers, and creative professionals who help evaluate submissions for the SQSP Awards. Their expertise ensures every website is reviewed fairly, consistently, and against the highest industry standards.

To recognize their ongoing contribution to the Squarespace community, SQSP Directory offers a progression of achievement certificates, public recognition, and exclusive member benefits. As experts complete more website reviews, they unlock new recognition levels and additional rewards.

Serving on the Expert Panel is more than reviewing websites—it's an opportunity to contribute to the growth of the Squarespace design community, expand professional visibility, and help celebrate exceptional creative work from around the world.

Expert Recognition Levels

Certified Judge

100 Reviews Completed

  • Official SQSP Certified Judge Certificate

  • Public profile on the SQSP Directory Judges page

  • Judge badge for personal website and social media

Pro Judge

300 Reviews Completed

  • Pro Judge Certificate

  • One complimentary SQSP Awards submission

  • Featured Judge profile

Senior Judge

750 Reviews Completed

  • Senior Judge Certificate

  • One complimentary SQSP Awards submission

  • Priority listing in the Judge Directory

  • Exclusive "Senior Judge" digital badge

Expert Judge

1,500 Reviews Completed

  • Expert Judge Certificate

  • One complimentary SQSP Awards submission

  • Featured interview or community spotlight

  • Recognition across SQSP Directory social channels

Master Judge

3,000 Reviews Completed

Our highest level of recognition, awarded to judges who have made an exceptional contribution to the SQSP Awards.

Benefits include:

  • Master Judge Certificate

  • Complimentary annual SQSP Awards submission

  • Lifetime Master Judge badge

  • Homepage recognition

  • Featured article on SQSP Directory

  • Social media spotlight

  • Priority invitations to future SQSP initiatives and collaborations

Who Can Apply?

We're looking for experienced Squarespace professionals who are passionate about design quality and helping elevate the community.

Applicants should ideally have:

  • At least 5 years of professional web design, development, or digital product experience

  • A strong portfolio of Squarespace projects

  • Excellent understanding of UX, UI, accessibility, performance, and modern web design principles

  • A commitment to providing fair, constructive, and unbiased reviews

Previous SQSP Awards winners, agency founders, educators, and experienced freelancers are especially encouraged to apply.

What Does an Expert Do?

Expert Panel members review nominated websites across several categories including:

  • Design

  • User Experience (UX)

  • User Interface (UI)

  • Performance

  • Accessibility

  • Creativity

  • Content

  • Overall Execution

Most experts review approximately 5–10 websites per week, with complete flexibility around their schedule.

Why Join the SQSP Expert Panel?

Joining the panel offers more than recognition. Members become part of a global network of Squarespace professionals dedicated to celebrating outstanding work.

Benefits include:

  • Industry recognition

  • Public expert profile

  • Achievement certificates

  • Complimentary award submissions

  • Networking opportunities

  • Increased professional exposure

  • Helping shape the future of Squarespace design excellence

How to Apply

To apply, submit your application through this page.

Please include:

  • A short introduction about yourself

  • Links to your Squarespace portfolio

  • Your website

  • LinkedIn, Behance, Dribbble, or other relevant profiles

  • A summary of your professional experience

Applications are reviewed by the SQSP Directory team, and successful applicants will receive an invitation to join the Expert Panel.

Ready to help recognize the best Squarespace websites in the world?

Join the SQSP Directory Expert Panel and become part of a community committed to celebrating creativity, craftsmanship, and exceptional web experiences.