Gensler, the globally leading architecture and planning firm, has appointed Todd Pilgreen as the Co-Managing Director for the Middle East region, effective immediately.

The company announced, “Effective July 16, 2025, Todd Pilgreen has been appointed Co-Managing Director for Gensler’s Middle East offices, replacing Tim Martin and joining current Co-Managing Director Tariq Shaikh in leading the firm’s Middle East practice.”

It added, “This announcement marks the beginning of a dynamic new chapter for Gensler in the region. With deep roots in global design leadership and a profound understanding of the regional context, the new leadership duo will guide the firm into its next phase of growth, innovation, and impact.”

In his new role, Pilgreen brings over three decades of industry leadership experience. Most recently, he served as the Asia Pacific and Middle East (APME) Regional Mixed Use & Retail Centers and Retail & Consumer Experience Practice Area Leader, and prior to that, as the Co-Managing Director in China.

He will be co-leading with Shaikh, who moved to Riyadh last year after serving in the Birmingham office for over 25 years. “Known for his client-focused approach and leadership on complex, large-scale projects, Shaikh has played a key role in expanding the firm’s impact across Saudi Arabia and the broader GCC. Together, the complementary experience and vision of the new leadership team are set to elevate Gensler’s presence in the region’s evolving architectural and urban landscapes.

The new leadership will focus on fostering regional talent, deepening client partnerships, and driving design excellence with purpose and impact, particularly in support of fast-transforming economies like the GCC,” the company added.

Extending wishes to the outgoing leader Martin, the company said, “Under Tim’s leadership, the firm solidified its regional reputation for quality, innovation, and client-centric design.”

Theresa Sheils and David Calkins, Co-Regional Managing Principals, Asia Pacific Middle East, also commented, “We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to Tim Martin for his leadership and commitment over the past six years. His legacy of excellence and collaboration has left a strong foundation for our Middle East practice. We are thrilled to see Todd step into this new role, and we are confident that, with Tariq, he will continue to drive innovation and strengthen our regional impact.”