Global architecture and engineering firm NORR has announced the promotion of George Sorich AIA, NCARB, LEED® AP to Vice President, Residential and Residential Care effective April 1, 2022. The promotion is a planned succession and will transfer leadership from Bruce McKenzie AAA, AIBC, FRAIC, LEED® AP.
“The transition is a natural progression that reflects the successful leadership of Bruce in building and mentoring a strong Residential and Residential Care team at NORR,” said Brian Gerstmar, President and Chief Executive Officer. “We see new opportunities for growth in Canada, the US and UK, and believe George is well-positioned to lead global projects and identify housing trends in the decade ahead.”
Based in NORR’s Chicago, Illinois office, George has been a practicing architect for 30 years, beginning his career in Residential.
“I am passionate about the sector,” said George. It’s in our collective DNA to be part of a movement designing beautiful buildings that help to establish smart cities and resilient neighborhoods. Building on Bruce’s design excellence, business insight and core values, I am focused on developing a scalable super sector that draws on the talent of our Residential and Residential Care architects, engineers, interior designers and planners at NORR across the globe.”
McKenzie will be stepping back after 20 years at the helm but will continue to provide strategic advisory services through 2022. Since starting his career 40 years ago in Calgary, Alberta, McKenzie has been a driving force in the urban landscape. His advocacy for affordable housing, more options for senior living and transit-oriented developments have ultimately helped shape many of the city’s most notable buildings.
“The pandemic has been a big disruptor in the Residential and Residential Care sectors and as designers, we are balancing the spectrum of walkable communities, optimizing the use of available square footage, developing healthy buildings through sustainable design and managing new space standards,” said Bruce. “George is in lockstep with the complexities of the sectors and the external forces of change that will make him successful in the transition to this leadership role.”
