Woods Bagot, an international architecture firm, has appointed Sarah Kay as its CEO, making her the first woman to hold this position in the company’s history. She succeeds Nik Karalis, who served as CEO for nine years. Founded in 1869 in Adelaide, Australia, Woods Bagot now operates 17 studios across Australia and New Zealand, China, Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
As CEO, Kay aims to increase the firm’s market share in Europe, North America, and Asia, noting that while Woods Bagot has a substantial presence in Australia, expanding in larger global markets is a priority. She also plans to develop the firm’s specialist brands, such as the high-end hospitality design studio Customs Bureau and the sustainability consulting business Global Impact Group (GIG).
Kay, a member of the firm’s leadership for 25 years and a Director for 15, previously led Woods Bagot’s Sydney studio and has extensive global experience, including as director of the New York office.
Expressing her commitment to making a positive impact through her work, Kay emphasized the responsibility of architects to shape cities and places with a sustainable and socially responsible outlook. Kay is committed to continuing Woods Bagot’s legacy, aiming to build a company that will endure for another 150 years.
Karalis praised Kay’s global career, strategic mindset, business leadership, board experience, and focus on cultural inclusivity, stating these qualities make her an excellent leader to drive Woods Bagot forward.
Kay’s appointment comes at a significant time for the firm, which is expanding its global presence. During Karalis’s tenure, Woods Bagot’s global net revenue increased by 33%, and major projects such as The Londoner and Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre were completed. The firm has also begun exploring new services beyond architecture, including brand, urban, and user strategies to address complex infrastructure challenges.
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