HKS Architectsan 85-year-old firm with U.S. offices from coast to coast (and several abroad)announced today a change in leadership. CEO and chairman Dan Noble, who has worked at the firm for 42 years, will step down from his position and hand the baton to Heath May, another HKS veteran who has spent 20 years with the practice. The transition will take place over the course of 2025 with Noble and May working closely together to share knowledge on the firms operations, while ushering in a new chapter. Talks to name a successor for Noble began seven years ago when HKS launched a strategic plan geared at the firms continued evolvement, especially in terms of those leading it. To identify a successor, HKS developed a predictive index. From this, it was able to glean who internally at the firm was best suited and most competent to move the firm forward. This tactic demonstrates the firms commitment to thoughtfully developing leadership programs, training initiatives, and defining the role of CEO. The shortlist comprised seven individuals and was narrowed down to two, with May eventually named as Nobles successor.Since joining HKS, May has worked on a range of typologies, including sports venues such as SoFi Stadium. (Nic Lehoux)May started working at HKS in 2004. It was his second job out of school. Over 20 years at HKS, May recalled I practiced somewhat agnostically across different typologies. I had the opportunity to get a sense of what it was like to work with clients and think about the programming and the criteria for different building typesranging from small cafes to large hospitals to schools to stadiums and everything in between. In an interview with AN, Noble said Mays focus has always been firmly fixed on the future and where the next idea to help move the industry along can come from. He has deep expertise in parametric modeling, sustainable design, performance driven architecture. Hes always pushing the needle, Noble offered.Both Noble and May look forward to a future where architects are problem solvers, where technology like AI, machine learning, and automation can benefit communities. CMNTY Culture Campus in Los Angeles exemplifies Mays ability to merge cutting-edge technology with client-centered design. (Courtesy HKS Architects)Im incredibly excited about the idea that we get to be the authors of that future, May added. Specifically right now around machine learning, AI, and the use of data in our work, the most interesting and exciting thing is that no one has figured it out yet.When May fully takes the reins in January 2026, he will lead the firm from its Los Angeles office, where he currently works froma first for the Dallas-headquartered practice that could expand its sphere of influence.