Managing director of Ignite Architects, Jeremy Whelan, says the promotions are part of the company’s commitment to internal growth and ongoing expansion. “We’re very pleased to see our talented designers continue to grow and fulfil important leadership positions across Ignite.”

One of the new associates is Anthony Sephton, a leading member of Ignite’s residential team who is currently spearheading the delivery of an apartment project in Parnell. “Over the past few years, Anthony has demonstrated excellent leadership skills,” says director Michael Bilsborough. “He is a strong performer, and this promotion recognises his dedication to delivering successful outcomes for our clients.”

Sephton is joined by Ryan Duthie, who works in a leadership role on Ignite’s education team. “Ryan is leading some of our more complex education projects. He brings strong communication and coordination skills to his projects, and he’s well-respected by both by his colleagues and his clients. This promotion is well-deserved,” says Bilsborough.

The new associate directors include Gemma James, who “is currently responsible for several significant aged care developments” according to associate director Mark Crean. “She has shown design talent, tenacity, and the ability to achieve successful results for her clients. She is both a role model and mentor to her team.”

Based in the firm’s Christchurch studio, Jamie Irvine has also been promoted after working on a broad range of projects. “Jamie has been key in the development of the Christchurch studio and to successfully delivering projects across the South Island,” says associate director Szymon Gozdzikowski. “He is an asset to every project team he’s on, and this promotion is a reflection of his hard work.”

They are joined by group technology manager Jeremy Benseman, who Whelan says plays “a key role in managing our technology systems and processes. “While he ensures a consistent platform across all sectors, Jeremy also continues to elevate the document quality across the business. This is a very well-deserved effort.”

Leandri Hay of the Auckland education team has also been internally appointed to associate director. She is currently working as a project lead in projects across the city, including a gym and technology block at Onehunga High School, “Leandri brings a real passion to the projects she works on,” says Bilsborough. “She has been key to the growth of Ignite’s education team over the past five years, and this promotion recognises her dedication and skill.”

From Ignite’s interiors team, Nathan Carey has been recognised for working across typologies in the design delivery process. “Nathan has developed a real focus on the user experience, coupled with a sense of design, materiality, and robust detailing. This customer-focus is not only deeply appreciated by our team, but by our clients,” says director Richard Voss.

Finally, Todd Myers of the aged care team has also been appointed associate director, having led several complex projects through the various phases of development. “From client-facing roles to technical delivery, Todd consistently demonstrates a vast skill set and cool temperament on his projects. He is a natural leader and mentor, and will play a huge role in our growth going forward,” says Crean.

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