A registered architect in Aotearoa New Zealand, Wallace brings more than 20 years of experience in architecture and urban design to his new role. He has worked withStudio Pacific for nearly two decades, helping to shape the practices collaborative culture and design ethos while also showing a strong commitment to social and environmental sustainability, with a particular focus on education and community-driven projects across themotu.Wallaces extensive experience in master planning and architectural and landscape design has seen him foster deep relationships with mana whenua and actively contribute to the integration of te ao Mori in the studios design practice. As a co-founder of Te Waharua, Studio Pacifics Mori design and support group, he has championed design approaches that reflect the principles of Te Tiriti oWaitangi.Beyond design, Wallace has been instrumental in the studios research and innovation initiatives. He co-founded the studios research group, has co-authored papers on building performance and supports technical reviews acrossprojects.Current managing director Nick Barratt-Boyes and Wallace are working closely with the practices leadership group to ensure a seamless transition. Barratt-Boyes co-founded Studio Pacific in 1992 alongside Even Novk and Stephen McDougall, and in stepping down from the managing director role, he will continue to be actively involved in project delivery and serve as an executive director on theBoard.Barratt-Boyes says that while leading Studio Pacific has been an incredible privilege, James passion for architecture, his thoughtful leadership and his clear vision for the future make him the ideal person to guide the practice as we move beyond our founder-led era into second-generationleadership.Helen Anderson, Chair of the Board,saysJames appointment reflects the Boards confidence in his ability to lead Studio Pacific into its next chapter. At the same time, we acknowledge and thank Nick for his outstanding leadership and ongoing contributions to thepractice.This leadership transition aligns with the Studios long-term vision, drawing inspiration from the whakatauk, Whia te iti kahurangi, ki te tohu koe, me he maunga teitei Pursue that which is precious, and do not be deterred by anything less than a loftymountain.With this new chapter, Studio Pacific says it is reaffirming its commitment to design excellence, sustainability and collaboration and the practice congratulatesWallace on his appointment and extends its gratitude toBarratt-Boyes for his dedication andleadership.