Kimberly Sullivan Named Co-Managing Director of Gensler’s Washington, D.C. Office

Kim Joins Francisco Gonzalez in Co-Leading the Office, While Former Office Leader Theresa Sheils Assumes New Role

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Gensler, the leading global architecture and design firm renowned for its innovative and transformative projects, announces the appointment of Kimberly (Kim) Sullivan as the new Co-Managing Director of its Washington, D.C. office effective June 3, 2024. Kim joins Francisco Gonzalez, who has led the office with Theresa Sheils since 2018. On July 1, Theresa will assume her new role as Co-Regional Managing Principal of Gensler’s Asia Pacific Middle East region, based in Singapore.

Kim is an accomplished leader with over 25 years of experience, eleven of which she’s spent at Gensler. Kim’s dual degrees include a bachelor’s in interior design from Virginia Tech and an MBA from the University of Maryland Smith School of Business, bringing a unique perspective and leadership style to the role. Her robust portfolio spans decades of experience in the commercial, hospitality, and workplace sectors, providing a keen understanding of the distinct business challenges facing multiple industries. Outside of Gensler, Kim is a member of Leadership Greater Washington’s Signature Program Class of 2024 and a frequent panelist at industry events and conferences to discuss the future of the workplace.

“The convergence of Kim’s business acumen and design expertise has made her an integral part of our firm and I am proud to be working alongside her as we embark on this new chapter for our office,” said Francisco. “From her diverse project portfolio to her longstanding client relationships, Kim has demonstrated that she is an exceptional leader. Together with our talented D.C. staff, we will continue to drive positive change in our communities.”

Gensler’s unique co-leadership model promotes a dynamic and inclusive work environment where leaders collaborate across disciplines and share insights. This approach not only fosters innovation but also strengthens Gensler’s ability to respond effectively to the evolving needs of clients and markets.

Colleagues for over a decade, Francisco and Kim have developed a strong rapport, combining their industry and design expertise to build on the office’s existing momentum. Francisco, an award-winning architect, continues to leverage his role as Co-Managing Director to help clients understand the critical links between design, real estate performance, and business operations. He is a trustee and leadership committee member of the Federal City Council, an active member of the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District, and a member of Gensler’s Global Race and Diversity Committee.

“The past few years have been transformative for the D.C. area, and I’m honored to take on this new role alongside Francisco to help shape the future of this incredible region,” said Kim. “At Gensler, we understand the impact of the built environment on people’s daily lives, and we will continue to work with local government and business leaders to reimagine our cities to make them increasingly attractive places to live, work, and visit.”

Gensler has called D.C. home for 42 years and recently committed to another 10 at their 2020 K Street office. Over the years, the office has expanded its areas of expertise to include the aviation, entertainment, hospitality, and sports industries for local and international projects. The firm was recently ranked #6 overall, and #1 in the Urban Development and Real Estate category on Fast Company’s most innovative list, which recognizes the businesses that are shaping industry and culture through their innovations and achieving remarkable milestones.