Sustainable Growth

MEDIA RELEASE: New MD uses successful business model to drive sustainable growth

05 FEBRUARY 2009

Recently appointed Managing Director of PDT Architects, Susan Playford, plans to drive sustainable and profitable business growth by continuing to build on the firm’s current business model – a model that has been practised since the firm’s inception 70 years ago.

The tested model revolves around the simple adage of developing solid, long-term relationships and offering a professional and responsive client service.

Ms Playford succeeds David Matthews who will continue in his dual role as Chairman and a Director of the firm.

The decision to appoint Ms Playford to Managing Director coincided with the firm’s 70th anniversary and was resultant of strategic planning sessions with PDT’s Board of Directors explained Mr Matthews.

“Celebrating our 70th anniversary and looking at the size of our organisation prompted us to review the way we do business and to strengthen our strategic focus,” he said.  

“Susan understands what PDT stands for and is committed to driving our business forward. She has taken the reins at a vital time in PDT’s history and I have complete confidence that she will succeed in the role,” he said.

As Managing Director, Ms Playford provides an integral link between the board and the day to day operations of the business while overseeing the firm’s strategic direction and business development opportunities.

“PDT’s strength lies in its relationships with clients and business partners and its dedicated team. My intent is to provide a more strategic focus to the business and to continue to foster and develop these relationships,” she said.

A commitment to client service and nurturing a corporate culture of innovation and technical expertise are just some of the practical tools that have led to the firm’s current success she explained.  

“We have an exceptional team of designers and technicians – but that’s a given. Our clients expect talented staff and quality design solutions. It’s the way we do business that sets us apart,” she said.  

“Our clients trust us to deliver high-quality projects, within given timeframes and budgets and without fuss. One of my goals is to ensure the firm grows sustainably while continuing to provide this unique service,” she said.  

A prominent designer, Ms Playford has led a wide range of significant design projects throughout Australia and across a myriad of industries. She managed PDT Architect’s Sydney office in the early 2000’s and has been part of the firm for over 10 years.

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About PDT Architects

For over 70 years, PDT Architects has enjoyed notable success in the design, planning and coordination of some of Queensland 's most significant and iconic projects. The firm’s continued success lies in its total commitment to delivering practical and innovative, high-quality projects on time, on budget and without fuss.

Some of the firm’s recent projects include: Queens Plaza Retail Centre; Queensland Academy of Creative Industries, Kelvin Grove; Education City , Springfield ; and The Prince Charles Hospital.  

PDT Architects has 120 professionals across Brisbane and Townsville offices and offers architectural, interior design, master planning and landscape architectural services across diverse industry sectors including health, education, retail, commercial, hospitality, recreation and cultural.

PDT Architects has six Directors: Ken Alexander, Ian Downing, Tony Farmer, David Matthews, Susan Playford and Laurence Taylor.