Eric Jaffe, AIA, NCARB, managing principal of HDR’s Princeton architecture studio, has been named the East region director, Architecture.

Jaffe joined HDR in early 2017 as the Princeton managing principal. His previous role was East region director for Science and Technology and office practice leader at CannonDesign. The majority of his career has taken place in research environments at top academic institutions including Duke, Princeton and Yale, as well as with corporate clients such as Novartis, Boehringer Ingelheim and GSK.

Having spent his 24-year career as a project architect, project manager and principal in charge for projects all over the world, Jaffe said he is excited about this new challenge.

“I look forward to working with everyone in the East as we continue to enhance our relationships with our clients using our inspirational design, unparalleled expertise and ability to provide exceptional quality,” he said.  

In his new role, Jaffe said he plans to encourage collaboration among project teams and develop strategies with HDR’s office leaders. He will also work with HDR’s recruiting and program leads to enhance its technical and design teams.

“I have great confidence that Eric will bring the same high caliber of leadership, skill and dedication to the East region that he has to our Princeton office,” said Tom Vandeveer, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, deputy director of architecture.

Considering his best strengths to be technical architecture, project management and business, Jaffe said he is passionate about architecture’s impact. “What makes architecture so wonderful is that when done right, the design solutions not only result in a physical space, but truly enhance the lives of those who visit.”

HDR employs about 400 architecture, engineering and related professionals in New Jersey, with locations in Lawrenceville, Mahwah and Newark.