Firm Operations - From Small to Big and Back Again

  • Date

    Thursday, June 20 2024

  • Time

    5:30pm - 7:00pm

  • Location

    Virtual

Properly managing the operations of an architectural design firm of any size is instrumental to its overall success. This panel discussion will explore the operational challenges and opportunities inherent to small, medium and large-sized firms. Panelists include representatives from three firms as well as a consultant specializing in the operations of today’s architecture firm.

Learning Objectives:

  • At the end of this course, participants will be able to identify and define primary operational components of architectural firms.
  • At the end of this course, participants will have a better understanding of the differences and similarities between how differently-sized architecture firms manage their overall operations.
  • At the end of this course, participants will have a general idea of what software and services are available to assist any design firm.
  • At the end of this course, participants will be able to better leverage their current operational systems and also know when and where to find additional resources.

Presented by:

Ron Schneck - Ron is principal of Square 134 Architects and co-chairs the AIA DC Small Firm Exchange.

Eileen Vitelli - Eileen is an Operations Consultant to interior design, architecture, & other creative firms. She focuses on internal firm operations, developing and documenting processes to ensure effective project management and successful team execution. She also supports business development, financial management, client relations, human resources, and staff onboarding. With over 20 years of interior design and project management experience, Eileen has worked in various sectors, including hospitality, retail, and residential, for firms of all sizes. Her specialty is working with small to mid-size businesses.

Jonathan Kuhn - Jonathan Kuhn has lived and worked in DC for over 25 years.  He has a wide range of experience in project type and styles, scale and clients. His practice was established in 2012 with a focus on residential design, both single-family and multi-family projects.  Building relationships with his clients and providing design excellence are points of focus for how he delivers engaging and thoughtful structures.

Benjamin Yonce - Benjamin is a Partner and Vice President of Operations at BKV Group in Washington, DC, and brings over 25 years of experience in the design and construction of large scale multifamily and hospitality work.  BKV Group is a holistic design firm providing a full complement of architecture, interior design, engineering, landscape architecture, and construction administration services.

Aneshia Hughes - Aneshia is recognized as the Manager of Operations at Perkins Eastman, a global design Architect firm that emphasizes human-centric architecture and design. With a history of positions in operations and office management, Aneshia brings a wealth of experience to her role, contributing to the firm's mission of collaborative and innovative solutions for staff.

Organized by:

AIA|DC Small Firm Exchange

AIA|DC Operations Professionals Peer Committee