As architecture practices continue to evolve, conversations about business transition and succession are taking place earlier and with greater intentionality in the lifecycle of a firm. This four-part webinar series offers practical insights, proven frameworks, and real-world case studies to help firm leaders and senior staff navigate how leadership, ownership, and firm value evolve in today’s changing practice environment.
These sessions focus on four core themes: ownership, leadership, value, and technology, while also recognizing that transition planning is connected to related issues such as financial and tax planning, business development, retirement strategy, and evolving compensation models. The series emphasizes practical takeaways while situating them within broader strategic and financial contexts. The goal is to stimulate ongoing conversation and provide participants with both strategic context and practical tools for navigating firm evolution.
Webinars included in the series
This series was developed based on ongoing collaboration with leaders of architectural practices, alongside feedback from past RAIC and Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) webinars on succession and firm value. These discussions underscored both the urgency and strong demand for structured dialogue on transition planning. To broaden these perspectives, the series lead has engaged colleagues with specialized expertise in leadership, ownership structures, and technology in the architecture industry. Together, the series fosters meaningful dialogue and delivers practical frameworks that directly address the needs expressed by firm leaders.
Key Topics
- Strategic goals and values that shape transition planning, along with the key drivers of firm value.
- Ways to cultivate future leaders and align leadership development with ownership strategies.
- Structural and financial pathways for internal succession, including timing, financing, and compensation.
- Data and technology needed to enhance decision-making, transparency, and long-term strategic planning.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of these sessions, participants will be able to:
- Identify drivers of firm value that shape succession.
- Explain how leadership development connects with ownership transition.
- Describe different internal succession strategies and financing options.
- Recognize technology tools that support planning, creativity, and resilience.
Elaine Pantel, CPA, CGA, ICD.D
Elaine is a strategic advisor to leaders of architecture and design firms across Canada, with over 30 years of experience. She specializes in helping firms integrate business strategy, financial insight, and long-term succession planning. Elaine works with firms to develop ownership transition models, executive financial dashboards, and firm-specific approaches to leadership evolution and firm value. Based in Toronto, Elaine brings a collaborative and thoughtful lens to helping practices navigate complex transitions.
Webinar pricing: RAIC Members $39 / Non-members $59
Register for the whole series here and take advantage of bundle pricing!
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Rethinking Succession – Framing the Conversation Date: January 21, 2026 @ 1:00pm EST Register here |
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Human Capital as the True Driver of Firm Value + Next Gen Success Date: February 25, 2026 @ 1:00pm EST Register here |
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Ownership, Legal & Financial Structures: Planning a Successful Transition Date: March 25, 2026 @ 1:00pm EST Register here |
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Making & Meaning in the Age of AI: Streamlining Architectural Creativity for Lasting Impact Date: April 22, 2026 @ 1:00pm EST Register here |