2026 Ones to Watch - Industry Leaders: Jamie Espiritu, TPG Architecture

“Jamie Espiritu is a collaborative and accomplished studio director and project manager who leads some of TPG Architecture’s most complex projects with clarity and focus. A Registered Architect and LEED Accredited Professional, she inspires teams, mentors staff, and helps bring client visions to life through spaces that reflect their purpose and mission.” 

Who has had the greatest impact on your career or leadership journey? 

The trust and respect shown to me by early mentors now guides how I lead and support my teams. 

How do you inspire, motivate, or mentor others within your organization? 

I believe people do their best work for leaders they respect and relate to. I try to lead with empathy while still maintaining clarity around expectations. Every person responds differently, so I focus on understanding what motivates each team member and tailoring how I communicate with them. When deadlines are tight, projecting calm confidence and a clear plan helps my team stay focused. Creating that balance between accountability and support builds trust and encourages people to do their best work.

What recent accomplishment or initiative are you most proud of, and what impact did it have on your firm, clients, or community?

One of my proudest accomplishments was leading a project for a confidential client during the height of COVID-19. Amid uncertainty, I led a large team, most of whom I had never worked with, managing an intense schedule while learning to collaborate remotely. Keeping everything organized, maintaining morale, and completing a complex project under these conditions was incredibly rewarding. It helped sustain momentum for our firm and reinforced the value of steady leadership and teamwork.