Pope Architects announces retirement of founder Jon Pope

Wednesday, December 21st, 2016

Jon R. Pope, AIA, the founder and CEO of Pope Architects is retiring at the end of 2016. Jon served over four decades at the helm of Pope Architects, leading the firm’s establishment as a diverse, 70-person architecture and interior design company.

Pope Architects was established when Jon and his father, architect Robert Pope, acquired an existing small architecture practice in St. Paul in 1974.

From the moment Pope Architects was established, Jon’s main interest and focus was the building of the business.  He set out to form strong relationships with his clients, many of whom Pope Architects still serves today, and people in the design and construction community. His ability to cultivate those relationships laid the foundation for a prosperous future for the firm.

“Jon Pope’s legacy is the business of architecture. His dedication to serving clients and mentoring staff over the last four decades has shaped Pope Architects into the successful company it is today. Jon laid the groundwork for our firm to continue to thrive and grow,” said Ward Isaacson, President of Pope Architects.

Under Jon’s leadership, Pope Architects was able to expand in size and design capabilities. Today the firm focuses in diverse markets, including office, industrial, senior living, multi-family housing, healthcare, retail and education design.