RDG Announces New Managing Principal Leadership Group
Three leaders step into newly defined roles to advance RDG’s mission, guide strategic growth and strengthen organizational excellence.
RDG Planning & Design is proud to announce the formation of a new managing principal group to help lead the firm into its next chapter of growth and impact. This strategic leadership structure brings together three accomplished professionals, each serving in a distinct yet collaborative role to further RDG's mission of creating meaning together.
The newly appointed managing principals are:
Catrina Cook, NCIDQ, Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, serving as Managing Principal of People
Nate Gieselman, AIA, NCARB, serving as Managing Principal of Strategy
Justin Platts, PLA, ASLA, LEED AP, serving as Managing Principal of Operations
As managing principals, Cook, Gieselman and Platts will be pivotal in guiding RDG's continued success by providing firmwide leadership, fostering collaboration and ensuring alignment with long-term strategic objectives. This leadership model is rooted in RDG's values and reflects a thoughtful evolution of the firm's commitment to shared ownership and visionary leadership.
"Each of these individuals brings a unique perspective and deep experience, as well as demonstrated passion for RDG's mission," said John Sova, AIA, RDG President. "Together, they form a strong, balanced team dedicated to stewarding RDG's culture, empowering our people, and advancing the firm's strategic priorities. Having just celebrated our 60th anniversary, we look forward to a very bright future!"
In their respective roles, the managing principals will oversee key aspects of the firm's operations:
Cook, as Managing Principal of People, will lead efforts in talent acquisition, employee engagement and professional development, cultivating a people-first culture. "At RDG, people are our purpose," said Cook. "I'm passionate about building a culture where our employees are supported, inspired and empowered to thrive at every stage of their career."
Gieselman, as Managing Principal of Strategy, will focus on design strategy, long-term visioning, client and community relationships, and guiding market and brand growth. "I'm honored to help guide the direction of RDG and collaborate with our teams to explore new opportunities for growth and innovation," said Gieselman. "Our mission is grounded in creating meaning together, and I'm excited to keep that vision at the center of our strategic evolution."
Platts, as Managing Principal of Operations, will be responsible for optimizing processes and systems to ensure operational excellence across the firm. "Operational excellence is not simply about efficiency. It is about creating space for great design to emerge," said Platts. "When our systems align with our purpose, we deliver high-quality work with care, clarity and meaning.
This leadership team will report directly to RDG's Board of Directors and work closely with senior leaders across the firm to help realize a unified strategic direction. Their combined expertise and collaborative leadership will build upon RDG's legacy and inspire future success.