Transformation Coach

Expect an engaging, thought-provoking, and practical session that transforms how you think about the business of architecture. Rion Willard draws from his experience as a Business Transformation Leader and host of the Business of Architecture podcast—where he’s worked with hundreds of leading architects, firm owners, and creative entrepreneurs—to uncover what truly drives success in design-led businesses today. With a unique ability to bridge creativity and commerce, Rion delivers powerful insights into leadership, mindset, and strategic growth. Attendees gain clarity, inspiration, and tangible frameworks to build thriving, purpose-driven firms that balance design excellence with profitability. Whether exploring future trends, reframing firm culture, or unpacking proven systems for growth, Rion’s talks equip audiences with both the motivation and the methods to elevate their practice and make a greater impact through architecture.

Rion Willard is an architect turned architecture business consultant. He began his career under notable firms such as Grimshaw and RSHP, and later began his own practice called TTHS Architects. He now consults architectural practice owners around the world to help them grow and design their practices. In the early days of running TTHS, he was met with many business obstacles that frustrated and confused him. The constant financial anxiety and stress drove him to a point where he decided he had to understand everything he could about running a business. This led him to interview successful business leaders within the AEC industry on a global scale, which is now known as the Business of Architecture UK Podcast. Rion continually invests in furthering his education on the subject of running a successful practice, including marketing, selling, and even the psychology of people and teams. His relationships with industry experts, business consultants, and leadership mentors have helped him understand and better consult other practice owners on what makes a profitable and impactful practice. He is now the Director of Consulting at Business of Architecture, where he has personally consulted with over 100 architecture practice owners to implement the SMART Practice Method™. His ultimate desire is to help other architects create a practice that gives them fulfillment, freedom, and exceptional finances.

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