HDR’s Architecture Practice Gains Momentum with Three New Managing Principals

With a shared passion for elevating the human experience through design, April Drake, David Flett and Andrew Portis have been promoted to managing principal for HDR’s architecture practice in Virginia, Minnesota and Ontario. On a mission to lead the global firm toward success, each brings deep knowledge of HDR’s operations and culture from their previous roles and enthusiastic, growth-focused mentalities for their new positions. 

April Drake, AIA, LEED AP ID+C, builds on two decades of experience in architecture as the new managing principal for HDR’s Arlington and Glen Allen, Virginia, architecture studios. Most recently serving as a senior project architect, Drake is well-known for her dedication to collaboration and communication when leading large, multidisciplinary teams through all design stages.

“I am excited to lead and support a team of diverse voices and industry change-makers to new heights as we work together to improve our communities for all,” Drake said. 

As managing principal of HDR’s architecture group in Ontario, Canada, David Flett, OAA, will lead the overall strategy, operations and success of the Kingston, London, Ottawa, and Toronto architecture studios. An action-oriented leader with a 15-year record of providing excellent client service, Flett brings an energetic perspective and a passion for helping people find their purpose to his new role.

“I look forward to helping enhance the collaborative culture between our offices and ensuring that we continue to grow the design excellence of our projects in our ever-expanding portfolio of work,” Flett said. 

With over a decade of industry experience, Andrew Portis, AIA, NCARB, has a proven ability to successfully lead large, multidisciplinary teams toward executing transformative projects that meet client objectives and positively impact communities. As managing principal for HDR’s Minneapolis architecture studio, Portis will empower others, establish meaningful relationships and strategically expand the studio to position HDR as the go-to firm in the region.

“I am genuinely excited to lead this incredible team and am confident that we will create a lasting impact on our clients, our community and the industry,” Portis said.