PRINCETON, NJ— J. Robert Hillier, founder and chairman of the board of Hillier Architecture, has announced that Thomas Fridstein has been elected CEO by the firm. In his new role, Fridstein will assume leadership responsibility for firm-wide day-to-day operations. Fridstein previously served as the managing principal of Hillier New York where he elevated the professional design standards of that office and established a China practice. “Tom is in a unique position to capitalize on Hilliers strengths— as a premier service firm with an emphasis on design and technical excellence— and use them to expand our national and global presence,” said Bob Hillier. Before joining Hillier, Fridstein was director of design for Tishman Speyer Properties where he oversaw the design of major developments worldwide and earned a reputation for achieving high quality designs within or below budget. He was also a partner at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill where he ran both the London and Chicago offices and was responsible for significant global projects including Shanghais Jin Mao Tower–Chinas tallest building. His portfolio also includes landmark headquarters for PaineWebber, Manufacturers Hanover Trust and the Bertelsmann Tower in New York.
