Global architecture, design and planning firm HLW has appointed Principal and Workplace Sector Lead Melissa Strickland as Managing Director of the firm's New Jersey office. Melissa will lead the Madison practice in strengthening and diversifying its portfolio of work with an increasing emphasis on agility, sustainability, and innovation, while continuing to cultivate the talents of its dynamic designers and consultants.

"When I started at HLW seven years ago, I was inspired by its client-centric mission, because it mirrored my own project philosophy. What I found was a culture that embraces the differences and strengths of each of its team members, supporting our development and success as the unique individuals we are," said Melissa. "I am excited to play a greater role in fostering that environment and the growth it affords––for both the New Jersey office and the firm as a whole––through this new opportunity." 

Since joining the New Jersey team in 2017, Melissa's relentless drive and passion for high-performance design has positioned the office on the leading edge of industry. Her commitment to excellence in both execution and client service has culminated in an extensive repertoire of award-winning spaces and cutting-edge facilities across the Technology, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Legal, and Financial industries. She has overseen projects totaling millions of square feet for long-standing clients such as Prudential, Everest, and Kyowa Kirin, and recently completed a string of new headquarters spaces for organizations including Audible, Eisai, Integra and Kering.

As a team lead, Melissa has helped to redefine the culture of HLW's New Jersey team, which has nearly doubled since she joined the team. The practice has been recognized for that growth and strength with numerous accolades from NJBIZ including the 2018 Emerging Business of the Year, as well as a ranking in the 2019 Best Places to Work in New Jersey list and the 2022 Leaders in Real Estate, Construction and Design Awards.. Her projects have received awards from both the AIA New Jersey and Newark & Suburban Architects chapters, Metropolis Magazine, as well as IIDA PA NJ DE. Each celebration stands as a testament to Melissa's vision and energy, which serves as a source of inspiration and a constant beacon of support to her team members. 

As her position evolves with this new title, Melissa will stay active in oversight of the office's projects––including the more than 1.7 million square feet of space currently in-progress. 

Melissa assumes the role of Managing Director from Kim Sacramone, who has begun a career pivot beyond the firm. "Melissa has been a pillar of the New Jersey team from day one," said Kim. "I have had the distinct pleasure of working closely alongside her for many years across progressive roles and could not be more proud to see her outsized impact recognized with this elevation. While I explore my next professional chapter, I am confident that there is no one better equipped to navigate such an exciting future for New Jersey than Melissa."

"HLW has been in continuous practice since 1886, a longevity we celebrate and honor by building thoughtfully on the legacy of those that came before us. It is through this lens that we extend our deep and sincere appreciation for Kim, her enduring work, and her foundational role in establishing our Madison practice that we welcome Melissa to the helm," said Susan Boyle, Managing Partner at HLW. "In just under a decade––a mere fraction of our firm's history––the New Jersey office has become a powerful piece of the business, and Melissa has been an unrivaled champion of that success. We look forward to seeing her capabilities flourish in this new role."

For more on HLW and its projects and people, please visit www.hlw.design.