“Stepping into this new role allows me to connect people seeking design excellence to our incredible talent, while enabling our teams to remain focused on delivering the outstanding design work they are known for,” says Heater. “I look forward to expanding our reach thoughtfully, nurturing relationships across diverse markets, and ensuring we’re positioned for sustainable growth well into the future.”

Aligning with dynamic shifts in the commercial real estate industry as new and existing challenges persist, this transition reinforces Ankrom Moisan’s commitment to evolving its business development strategy to proactively build new connections, explore emerging markets, and strengthen its presence in areas such as healthcare, senior housing, and workplace design. Heater will place a special emphasis on growing studios that are deeply rooted in renovation and repositioning—work that extends the life, value, and function of existing buildings.

“Dave’s leadership has shaped so much of who we are as a firm, from growing our presence in new markets to building a culture grounded in trust and collaboration,” says Murray Jenkins, President of Ankrom Moisan. “This new role builds on his strengths as someone who understands our clients, our people, and how to connect the two in ways that create long-term success.”

Heater has played a pivotal role in expanding Ankrom Moisan’s geographic reach throughout the years, including leading the opening of the Seattle office in 2006 and helping the firm establish a strong foothold with national and international developers and Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). He was also instrumental in launching a second office in San Francisco in 2016, expanding the firm’s presence in California and strengthening its ability to serve clients across the region. Heater’s leadership through periods of both rapid growth and economic uncertainty is reflected in a practical understanding of opportunity, adaptability, and long-term client service; experience he now brings into his firmwide development role. 

This transition underscores Ankrom Moisan’s commitment to a thoughtful, collaborative design approach that will position the firm to shape inspiring, lasting built environments across diverse markets and evolving client needs.