Populous Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Populous has 7 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to design excellence, Populous shapes iconic spaces worldwide, fostering innovation and client collaboration to deliver transformative architectural solutions.

Leadership Roles at Populous

  • Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer. Americas - Shelly Malyarov
  • Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer & Senior Principal - Kevin Hagan
  • Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer APAC - Steven Carlstrom
  • Global Chief Operating Officer - Gavin Houldin
  • Chief People Officer - Kristin Gibbar
  • Chief People Officer (Asia Pacific) - Mark O'Sullivan
  • Chief Legal Officer & Senior Principal - Zachary Rudman
  • Shelly Malyarov - Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer. Americas

    Shelly Malyarov, the Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer. Americas at Populous, directs financial strategy and operations across the Americas region. This leadership role involves managing all fiscal activities, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, to support the firm's ambitious growth objectives. Malyarov ensures robust financial controls and optimizes resource allocation to drive profitability and operational efficiency throughout the Americas. Overseeing the financial health of the firm's extensive project portfolio, Shelly Malyarov provides critical insights that inform strategic decision-making and sustain long-term financial stability. The focus remains on maximizing financial performance while supporting the delivery of groundbreaking architectural designs across North and South America.

    Kevin Hagan - Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer & Senior Principal

    Kevin Hagan, the Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer & Senior Principal at Populous, oversees the global financial health and treasury functions of the firm. This executive position involves developing and executing comprehensive financial strategies that align with Populous's long-term vision and market expansion goals. Hagan manages all aspects of corporate finance, including capital management, investment strategies, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations worldwide. The Treasurer role ensures efficient cash flow management and optimizes the firm's capital structure. By providing strategic financial guidance, Kevin Hagan supports the firm's ability to undertake large-scale, complex international projects and maintain a strong competitive edge in the global architectural design market. His leadership ensures financial integrity and drives sustainable economic growth.

    Steven Carlstrom - Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer APAC

    Steven Carlstrom, the Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer APAC at Populous, leads financial operations and strategic planning for the Asia-Pacific region. This executive function involves managing all financial aspects, including budgeting, financial analysis, and reporting, to support Populous's growth and project execution in diverse APAC markets. Carlstrom ensures fiscal discipline and optimizes financial resources to enhance project profitability and firm-wide financial performance across Asia and the Pacific. By providing expert financial guidance, Steven Carlstrom enables the firm to navigate complex regional economic landscapes and deliver exceptional architectural services. His oversight is crucial for maintaining financial integrity and driving sustainable business development throughout the APAC territory.

    Gavin Houldin - Global Chief Operating Officer

    Gavin Houldin, the Global Chief Operating Officer at Populous, directs the firm's worldwide operational strategies and execution. This critical role ensures the seamless integration of all business functions, driving efficiency and effectiveness across global offices. Houldin oversees project delivery processes, resource management, and operational infrastructure, enabling the firm to consistently achieve its design and business objectives. By optimizing workflows and implementing best practices, Gavin Houldin enhances the firm's capacity to deliver complex, large-scale architectural projects on time and within budget. His leadership focuses on operational excellence, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and supporting the firm's global expansion and market leadership in innovative design solutions.
    Gavin Houldin

    Kristin Gibbar - Chief People Officer

    Kristin Gibbar, the Chief People Officer at Populous, directs the global human capital strategy and talent management initiatives. This leadership position focuses on cultivating a high-performance culture that attracts, develops, and retains top talent across all regions. Gibbar oversees all aspects of human resources, including organizational development, employee engagement, compensation, and benefits, ensuring alignment with the firm's strategic objectives. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Kristin Gibbar fosters an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive, essential for Populous's innovative design work. Her strategic direction is vital for building a cohesive and motivated global workforce capable of delivering exceptional architectural solutions worldwide.

    Mark O'Sullivan - Chief People Officer (Asia Pacific)

    Mark O'Sullivan, the Chief People Officer (Asia Pacific) at Populous, spearheads human resources strategy and talent management for the APAC region. This executive role involves developing and implementing people-centric initiatives that support the firm's operational goals and cultural values across diverse Asian and Pacific markets. O'Sullivan oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, and organizational development, ensuring a robust and engaged workforce. By fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment, Mark O'Sullivan contributes to the firm's ability to attract and retain skilled professionals essential for delivering cutting-edge architectural designs. His focus is on building a strong talent pipeline and promoting employee success throughout the APAC region.
    Zachary Rudman, the Chief Legal Officer & Senior Principal at Populous, provides comprehensive legal counsel and strategic guidance across the firm's global operations. This executive function ensures adherence to all legal and regulatory requirements, mitigating risk and safeguarding the company's interests worldwide. Rudman oversees contract negotiation, intellectual property management, and corporate governance, playing a pivotal role in the firm's strategic development and project execution. By managing complex legal matters, Zachary Rudman supports Populous's ability to undertake ambitious international projects and maintain its reputation for integrity and excellence. His expertise is fundamental to navigating the intricate legal landscape of the global architectural design industry.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Architecture, Engineering & Design

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Populous Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Populous?
    Populous is led by Shelly Malyarov (Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer. Americas), along with executives such as Kevin Hagan (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer & Senior Principal) and Steven Carlstrom (Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer APAC).
    Who is part of Populous’s executive team?
    The executive team of Populous includes leaders such as Shelly Malyarov (Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer. Americas), Kevin Hagan (Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer & Senior Principal), Steven Carlstrom (Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer APAC) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Populous have?
    Populous has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Populous’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Populous includes roles such as Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer. Americas, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer & Senior Principal, Senior Principal. Regional Chief Financial Officer APAC, Global Chief Operating Officer, Chief People Officer.