Session Partner: Dulux
Session 2C (S2C)
When: 11:45am–1:15pm, Saturday, 03 May
Where: Sound Lounge, Seymour Centre, University of Sydney
CPD: No Formal Points
Leadership is critical to shaping the architectural profession in an era of rapid change. Join leaders from the Australian Institute of Architects, New Zealand Institute of Architects and Commonwealth Association of Architects as they explore how architects can lead by design, influence policy, and redefine professional practice. This session will delve into innovative approaches to leadership, from entrepreneurial practice models to advocacy for equity, sustainability, and cultural responsiveness. Gain insights into how architectural leaders are addressing contemporary challenges and driving the profession forward.
Jane Cassidy, National President, Australian Institute of Architects
Jane Cassidy is the National President of the Australian Institute of Architects. A highly respected architect and advocate, she has been instrumental in shaping professional standards and promoting leadership within the architectural community. Jane’s vision centres on fostering equity, sustainability, and resilience within the profession.
John Brown, PhD, Dean of the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape, University of Calgary
John Brown is a registered architect, academic, and entrepreneur, renowned for pioneering innovative models of architectural practice. As a founding partner of Housebrand and co-founder of Garden Loft, he has redefined middle-market and prefabricated housing solutions. A recognised leader, John is a past president of the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and Senior Vice-President of the Commonwealth Association of Architects.
Huia Reriti, President/Perehitini, Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects
Huia Reriti is a trailblazing leader and architect from New Zealand, known for championing culturally responsive design and advancing equity within the architectural profession. As Immediate Past President of Te Kāhui Whaihanga New Zealand Institute of Architects, he has been a vocal advocate for indigenous architecture and the integration of Māori perspectives into design practice.
Ar. Melvin H J Tan
Melvin was the President of the Singapore Institute of Architects (2022-2025). He is the Joint Managing Director and founding partner of LAUD Architects Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based practice established in 2004.
LAUD Architects is a design-centric boutique practice, recognised at the SIA Design Awards, HDB Design Awards, Finalists in World Architecture Festival and most notably President Design Awards for their projects, Sparkletots by PCF (2020) and DECK (2015). He has served in many capacities such as World Architecture Festival Judge, Jury panel for design awards both locally and abroad, Housing Development Board Architectural Design Panel, the Design Singapore Advisory Board and the Board of Architects (Singapore). Melvin was the Lead Curator for the Singapore Pavilion at the Venice Biennale 2023.
In his final term as SIA President, Melvin is actively lobbying for commensurate fees and fair salaries for architects and the built environment sector, through the task force recently set up by MND.
Steven Oundo
Steven Oundo, OGW, FCIArb, FAAK, is an accomplished architect, arbitrator, and construction project manager. He is the Director of Trioscape Ltd and has held numerous leadership roles, including current President of the Commonwealth Association of Architects (CAA), Past Chairman of the Architectural Association of Kenya, and National Construction Authority. He has significantly contributed to the architectural and construction sectors and was awarded the Order of the Grand Warrior by the Republic of Kenya of Kenya, Steven holds an MBA in Strategic Management and a Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Nairobi and is currently pursuing a law degree.
Alison Scotland
Alison Scotland is the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC), a national forum of peak bodies in the Australian built environment, focused on achieving sustainable, productive, and resilient buildings, communities, and cities. She drives a powerful collaboration agenda with industry, government and not-for-profit leaders to develop national policy and technical solutions that enhance the built environment.
http://www.linkedin.com/in/alison-scotland
Image: Canberra Grammar School – Centre of Music and Snow Concert Hall | COX Architecture | Photographer: Alina Gonzin’a
The Australian Institute of Architects acknowledges First Nations peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands, waters, and skies of the continent now called Australia.
We express our gratitude to their Elders and Knowledge Holders whose wisdom, actions and knowledge have kept culture alive.
We recognise First Nations peoples as the first architects and builders. We appreciate their continuing work on Country from pre-invasion times to contemporary First Nations architects, and respect their rights to continue to care for Country.
