CPL Welcomes Jona Wright, Ed.D as Chief Human Resources Officer

ROCHESTER, NY — CPL, a full-service design firm that has served public and private-sector clients since 1975, is pleased to announce the addition of Jona Wright, EdD as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO).

In this new role, Wright will lead the firm’s high-impact human resources (HR) team to align daily operations with strategic business goals. In addition to overseeing the tactical planning and execution of a wide range of HR initiatives, as a member of the executive leadership team, she will develop strategies that enhance the firm’s competitive edge in the evolving A/E market. This added support will continue to optimize engagement, champion talent mobility and drive post-professional learning that is measurable and effective.

“It is imperative that we remain nimble and invest in our people to adapt to ―and even influence―developments in our industry, and we know Jona is the right person to help us do so,” said Todd Liebert, AIA, NCARB, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at CPL. “Her profound ability to create and implement thoughtful, long-term plans will streamline critical processes and foster enduring partnerships between our practice and operational teams.”

Prior to joining CPL, Wright served as the Director of Human Resources for Pulsafeeder Engineered Products, where she led the HR team in developing business partner approaches to shared services. She has a demonstrated aptitude for organizational and leadership development, change management and strategy, and maintains numerous professional accreditations, including FourSight Breakthrough Thinking Tool, Actualized Leader Profile (ALP) facilitator and cognitive coaching certifications.

Wright is also an active member of the National Human Resources Association (NHRA) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). She earned a Doctor of Education in executive leadership and organizational development and management and a Master of Science in administration from St. John Fisher University, as well as a Master of Science in literary education and a Bachelor of Science in communication disorders and sciences from SUNY Geneseo.

The firm is confident that Wright’s determination to foster an intentional workplace culture will promote diversity, equality and inclusivity, and guarantee robust professional opportunities for all.


About CPL

Founded in 1975, CPL is a 500+ person multi-disciplined architecture, engineering and planning firm offering inspiring design services and enriching communities in 21 cities across seven states. CPL specializes in the Community, Healthcare, Higher Education, K-12 Education and Transportation market sectors – providing architectural, interior design, civil engineering, buildings and structural engineering, planning, landscape architecture and 3D/virtual design services to a host of public and private clients.