The Australian Institute of Architects CEO David Parken has announced his decision to leave the organisation after 10 years at the helm.
Thanking Parken on behalf of the National Council for his ongoing commitment to the profession, AIA National President Jon Clements congratulated him on his significant achievements over the last decade, and acknowledged his significant contribution to the organisation, the profession and the broader construction industry during his 10-year tenure.
He explained that the Institute under Parken’s leadership experienced significant and transformative change through the expansion of various member services, programs and events as well as the establishment of the A+ membership offering, which saw member numbers grow from 9000 to approximately 12,000.
Parken also led the development of national policy positions, having represented the Institute on various external peak industry boards including the Australian Construction Industry Forum, Australian Services Roundtable, Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council and Built Environment Meets Parliament.
According to Clements, Parken has collaborated with key local industry associations including the Green Building Council of Australia, Planning Institute of Australia, Consult Australia, Property Council of Australia and the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia to promote architects and the value of architecture within the built environment. He has also represented the Institute internationally as Chair of the Canberra Accord 2011-13 and was Vice President Oceania for the Commonwealth Association of Architects 2013-15.
Parken was instrumental in the development of Memoranda of Understanding with Institutes of Architects in the USA, Singapore, Malaysia, Canada and New Zealand.
Parken will continue in his current role at the Institute supporting the National Council while they develop a transitional plan for the appointment of a new CEO.
