Freiheit & Ho Architects in Kirkland recently announced that its board of directors has elected David Hills, AIA, LEED AP BD+C to the position of executive vice president as the next step in an overall leadership transition plan. Founder Dick Freiheit remains president and will continue to guide the firm’s day-to-day business activities.

“David represents the upcoming generation of leadership and will help provide the strategic direction necessary to continue our vision of forging creative solutions every day,” said Dick Freiheit, president and founder of Freiheit & Ho Architects. “We’ve seen steady growth of 75 percent over the past three years, and David’s leadership will be key to ensuring continued growth and exceeding client expectations.”

“It’s with great pleasure that I pass the baton to David,” said Larry Ho, founder and outgoing vice president. “During his tenure, he has proven to be pivotal in the success of the firm and I am confident David will be an even greater asset in our future.” Ho will remain active as a design principal.

Hills’ new leadership role recognizes his dedication to the field of architecture and contributions to the firm over the past 26 years. Since joining Freiheit & Ho Architects, Hills quickly rose to positions of greater responsibility, led design and management of increasingly complex and technical projects and has been instrumental in the expansion of practice markets, all with a demonstrated reputation for strong leadership and superior client service. In his new role, Hills will continue to lead projects and support client relationships while assuming greater leadership of the firm’s focus and strategy for the future.

“With a business structure and systems based in teaming and collaboration, Freiheit & Ho identified early on the benefits of an open office environment, broadly experienced staff and implementation of new technologies to successfully deliver creative results,” said Hills. “As a result, we have nearly doubled in size during the past few years and our future is bright. I am deeply honored to have been appointed to help further guide the firm on its path of continued success.”