GHDWoodhead has appointed Paul de Podolinsky as director of architecture in Victoria, where he will focus on the tertiary education, science, institutional, cultural and commercial sectors.

The new director has more than 25 years of experience in the building industry, and has delivered architecture across Australia, Denmark and Germany. He pursued a non-linear path to architecture, beginning his career as a structural technician, which gave him a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry. According to GHDWoodhead, his strength lies in establishing strategic direction and leading project delivery from initial design concepts through to completion, managing employees and the project teams.

“I am delighted to join GHDWoodhead, in a role that combines all aspects of my career. It is an opportunity to augment and expand GHDWoodhead’s capability in sectors relevant to my experience and to lead a multidisciplinary team to create truly integrated design solutions,” says de Podolinsky.

Some of his key projects include Deakin University’s Centre for Advanced Design in Engineering Training, Monash University’s Law Faculty Refurbishment Masterplan, and Federation University’s Manufacturing Engineering Skills Centre and Federation College.

“Paul is known as a deep thinker, who has conducted extensive research in the areas of retrofitting and repositioning existing commercial and institutional buildings, and educational facilities,” says Will Delaney, GHDWoodhead studio director, Victoria.

“His focus on truly listening to and collaborating with clients to identify priorities and a clear vision complement our commitment to client service excellence.”