HKS Names Former U.S. Department of Defense Chief Sustainability Officer Brendan Owens as New Chief Sustainability Officer
Rand Ekman (left) and Brendan Owens (right) / image courtesy of Daryl Shields, HKS
DALLAS – Global design firm HKS announced today that Brendan Owens, PE, LEED Fellow, an accomplished leader at the intersection of policy, systems thinking and sustainable design, has joined the firm as Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO). Owens succeeds Rand Ekman, FAIA, LEED Fellow, who transitions to the honorary role of CSO, Emeritus after nearly a decade of transformative leadership in embedding sustainability across the firm’s culture, operations and projects.
Since 2016, Ekman has shaped HKS’ industry-leading response to climate, health and equity challenges. Under his leadership, the firm has advanced initiatives in decarbonization, materials transparency, and alignment with the AIA 2030 Commitment, becoming one of the first large architecture practices to join the United Nations Global Compact.
“Rand’s leadership has created a deep and lasting stake for HKS in the industry’s sustainability movement,” said Dan Noble, FAIA, FACHA, LEED AP, HKS CEO and Chairman. “He has not only advanced our technical capabilities but also inspired a culture that views environmental and social performance as inseparable from design excellence.”
Based in Washington D.C., Owens brings extensive expertise from roles as Chief of Engineering at the U.S. Green Building Council, where he was instrumental in shaping the LEED rating system, and as Chief Sustainability Officer at the U.S. Department of Defense, where he integrated climate and resilience strategies across one of the world’s largest real estate portfolios.
“Brendan connects the technical aspects of sustainable design to its broader purpose, prioritizing outcomes such as social equity, climate action, resilience, health and national security,” Noble said. “His leadership will help us scale our impact at a moment when our clients and communities face unprecedented challenges – and opportunities – to create regenerative, future-ready solutions.”
Owens said he was drawn to HKS’ global platform, multidisciplinary teams and commitment to moving the industry beyond “less harm” toward regenerative outcomes. “HKS touches millions of lives through its work. My goal is to connect systems, policy, science and design to create solutions that not only meet today’s needs but regenerate environmental, social and economic value for generations to come,” he said.
Ekman and Owens are collaborating closely to ensure a seamless transition for clients and teams. “This is the right moment to pass the baton,” Ekman said. “The firm is well-positioned to accelerate its sustainability ambitions, and Brendan’s experience linking ESG frameworks to practical design strategies will help us meet – and exceed – those aspirations.”
As part of HKS’ next chapter under incoming CEO Heath May, FAIA, in January 2026, sustainability and regenerative design will remain central to the firm’s vision. “Regenerative design is not only a technical approach – it’s a strategy for creating value for people, planet and business,” May said. “With Brendan’s expertise and Rand’s continued guidance, we will strengthen our leadership in delivering solutions for a rapidly changing world.”
About HKS
HKS is an interdisciplinary global design firm. Our team of 1,600 architects, designers, planners and advisors partner with clients to design and develop elegant solutions to complex challenges. From iconic gathering places to healing environments, our designs enhance experiences and elevate outcomes for all stakeholders. Our work is inspired by curiosity, driven by research and technology and informed by a deep understanding of human and environmental needs. Learn more at www.hksinc.com.
