2023 Ones to Watch Industry Leaders: Jeffrey Venezia, DIGroup Architecture

Number of years in CURRENT position: 17

Best advice for new leaders in 10 words or less: The highest level of creativity comes from collaborating with others.

3 skills that you use every day in your position: Think transformatively to connect architecture, interior and graphic design to improve lives and enrich and strengthen communities. Always employ agility, flexibility and resilience to overcome challenges, both personally and professionally. Never discount the unrepresented or underrepresented person at the table – they should always be given a high level of consideration

Best book, song, podcast, or app for aspiring leaders: One of my favorite song lyrics is from Every Little Bit of It by Carrie Newcomer: “the face was always in the stone, said Michelangelo, we just have to chip and clear to see what is already there.” These words represent my passion for design as well as innovative and creative problem-solving skills that have served me well during a storied 40+ year career.

What recent project, transaction or accomplishment are you most proud of? I’m extremely proud of DIGroup’s work with the New York City School Construction Authority because of the far-reaching impact of their work on the greater community, its youngest end users and their families. With every academic facility we take on, we strive to create a sustainable, safe, functional and attractive facility that seamlessly complements the neighborhood in which it is built.

What makes this nominee an Industry Leader? “As one of the co-founders of DIGroup Architecture, Venezia’s collaborative, consensus-building style, vision and passion have fueled the sustainability of an award-winning, inclusionary and innovative architecture, interior and graphic-design firm. His focus is reflected in its “Architecture for Change” commitment to underserved populations that stems from giving back to communities.” - Debra Koehler, Director of Marketing at DIGroup Architecture.