CPL implements next phase of leadership as Liebert transitions to senior advisor from CEO

Rochester, NY CPL has unveiled a planned leadership transition designed to support the firm’s continued growth and long-term strategic vision. Effective August 1, Todd Liebert transitioned from his role as chief executive officer to serve as senior advisor through his planned retirement at the end of 2026. In this advisory role, Liebert will continue to support the firm’s leadership team, strategic initiatives, client relationships, and executive transition.

The CPL board of directors has initiated a formal search for the firm’s next chief executive officer. CPL president, Chris Colby, has assumed day-to-day leadership of the organization, ensuring continuity for employees, clients, and partners while the board conducts a comprehensive executive search.

During Liebert’s 32-year tenure, CPL expanded its national footprint, strengthened its multidisciplinary expertise, advanced innovation across the firm, and built a strong platform for future growth. This leadership transition marks the next chapter in the firm’s long-term strategic journey and reflects the board’s commitment to ensuring continuity, stability, and continued success while positioning the firm for the future.

“Leading CPL has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” said Liebert. 

“I am incredibly proud of what our people have accomplished together and the culture we have built. As I transition into this next chapter, I remain fully committed to supporting the firm and ensuring a smooth leadership transition. CPL’s future is exceptionally bright.”

Founded in 1975, CPL is a 500+ person, multi‑disciplinary architecture, engineering, and planning firm serving public and private clients from 25 offices across eight states. CPL specializes in Community & Culture, Healthcare, Higher Education, Infrastructure, and K–12, delivering integrated design solutions that strengthen communities.

Colby said, “CPL has tremendous momentum because of our people, our clients, and the values that have guided this firm for generations. I am honored to lead the organization during this transition and look forward to continuing to deliver exceptional service while building on the strong foundation Todd and our leadership team have established.”

The board’s CEO search will focus on identifying a leader who aligns with CPL’s values and culture, and has the strategic vision, industry expertise, and leadership capabilities to guide the firm’s next phase of growth and national expansion.