Davenport will continue to serve as chair of the DLR Group of Directors.

Driven by a curiosity about architecture and how the built environment impacts people, Davenport joined DLR Group as an intern in Farmington, New Mexico in 1979, and launched his career as a full-time employee in 1980. After contributing to business development efforts and building relationships with public sector clients in Nebraska, Davenport went on to build and develop the firm’s design practice in Salt Lake City, where he earned his architecture license. With a passion for the business side of architecture and a gift for mentoring and team building, in 1989 Davenport established DLR Group’s office in Minneapolis and oversaw its growth to 70 people within five years.

“Throughout his career, Griff cultivated new opportunities with an entrepreneurial spirit, and embodied the values and skills of a leader,” said DLR Group CEO Steven McKay, AIA, RIBA. “The firm has experienced unprecedented growth in vertical markets and in regions across the globe thanks to his leadership, commitment to design excellence, and stewardship of core values.”

During his tenure as CEO, Davenport collaborated with members of DLR Group’s executive leadership team to craft the firm’s business strategy and progress its evolution as a global leader in design. Today the firm partners with a diverse group of public and private sector clients, creating design solutions that elevate the human experience across education, work, travel, entertainment, healthcare, and civic life.