JCJ Architecture has promoted Scott Celella to president, effective June 30, succeeding Peter Stevens, who, after more than 37 years with the company, including more than two decades in the role of president, will transition to principal/president emeritus.
Celella had served as JCJ COO since 2002. Barry Goldstein, who had been Western region managing director, will step into the position of COO on July 1.
Stevens joined JCJ in 1988 as director of business development. He assumed the role of president in 2001 as the firm transitioned after 65 years of practice to its third generation of ownership. Under Stevens’ stewardship, JCJ has grown to include multiple acquisitions and new locations in New York City, Phoenix, Boston, Tulsa and Las Vegas, as well as strategic investments that have positioned JCJ as one of the top design firms in the country. Stevens’ leadership was key to the firm’s transition from closely held principal ownership to a 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan) structure, as well as the growth and stability of the ESOP over the last 13 years.
“It has been a tremendous honor to serve as JCJ’s president, to have played a part in steering a firm so deeply committed to design excellence and client service,” said Peter Stevens. “As I transition to principal/president emeritus, I will continue my involvement in select projects and assist with client relationships, the firm’s M&A activities, ESOP management and community outreach efforts. My commitment to JCJ remains as strong as ever, and I have every confidence in Scott and our leadership team’s ability to guide JCJ into an exciting new chapter.”
James E. LaPosta Jr. will maintain his presence in the role of chief architectural officer, a position he has held since 2002.
“This transition marks the fulfillment of a thoughtfully developed succession plan aimed at maintaining continuity and excellence,” said Celella. “I am deeply honored to have been entrusted with this role and look forward to the opportunity to work alongside Barry, Jim and our remarkable team of dedicated professionals. My focus will be to build upon and strengthen the firm’s foundational principles that have brought us to a position of prominence in our industry, and to cultivate the firm’s future leadership. We hope to expand our circle of clients who have come to appreciate the engaged and empathetic design approach that has characterized JCJ for so long.”
Goldstein added, “I’m thrilled to continue the great work our team has been doing for decades, including continuing to align our long-term vision with our dynamic and changing industry. Through collaboration with our exceptionally talented team, we’ll continue to elevate design excellence and enhance project delivery, while strategically leveraging our resources to support sustainable growth. One of my core priorities is strengthening our approach to staff development, fostering opportunities that empower individuals and nurture their professional journeys.”
