Cuningham Appoints Sandi Najera as Chief Operating Officer

Cuningham Appoints Sandi Najera as Chief Operating Officer

Cuningham is pleased to announce the appointment of Sandi Najera as the firm’s Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Najera will oversee the alignment of Cuningham’s business plan, fiscal functions, and overall strategic vision, while streamlining business operations in a way that fosters growth and continues to build on Cuningham’s position as an industry leading design firm.

“We are excited to have Sandi join the Cuningham team,” Chief Executive Officer Jacqueline Dompe says. “Her insightful approach to operational leadership will be instrumental in executing the firm’s short- and long-term performance goals. Most importantly, Sandi’s personal commitment to curiosity and excellence within her teams is a natural fit with Cuningham’s culture and values.”

Najera has more than 30 years of experience, including over 15 years of management experience within the Architecture/Engineering/Construction (AEC) industry. During this time, she has earned a reputation as a progressive leader who thrives on elevating those around her.

“I’ve always been driven by helping others succeed,” Najera says. “I’m excited to bring this passion to Cuningham, both on an individual and organizational level — simplifying our business operations so our teams can focus on delivering value to our clients and stakeholders.”

“The team at Cuningham is incredibly creative and dedicated to positive outcomes for our communities. Together, I am excited for us to find new ways of adapting our practice to the ever-changing needs of our clients and demands of the industry.”

Sandi Najera

Chief Operating Officer

Cuningham Director of Architectural Design Juan Perez praises Najera’s talents as a high-growth strategist and her track record of taking businesses to the next level by fostering team cohesion.

“We are honored to have Sandi leading the firm’s operations,” Perez says. “Her ability to blend an enthusiasm for good design with her strengths as a strategic thinker and team player makes her expertly positioned to take on the role of Cuningham’s Chief Operating Officer.”

Previously, Najera has held operational leadership roles for a variety of companies, including global fortune 200 companies AECOM, and JLL, where she served as the organization’s Senior Vice President for its West Region Business Operations.

“The team at Cuningham is incredibly creative and dedicated to positive outcomes for our communities,” Najera says. “Together, I am excited for us to find new ways of adapting our practice to the ever-changing needs of our clients and demands of the industry.”