TODD Architects Reshapes Ownership in Completion of Succession Plan

TODD Architects, a leading UK and Ireland design practice headquartered in Belfast, has today announced a significant leadership transition as it prepares to mark its 50th anniversary in 2026.
Existing directors Peter Minnis and Paul Crowe have formally stepped back from their executive roles, remaining with the practice as consultants to support continuity for clients. Ownership has now fully transitioned to directors Andrew Murray, Daragh Coleman, and Jim Mulholland (who led a partial management buyout in 2019) alongside newly appointed equity shareholders Michael Edwards (Finance Director) and Maria McKeown (Director). Maria and Michael’s inclusion at board level brings dedicated financial and operational expertise, marking a strategic evolution and generational shift grounded in continuity, stability, and a renewed ambition for growth.
Daragh Coleman, Managing Director, commented:
“This is a milestone moment for TODD. As we approach our 50th year, we’re building on a strong legacy with a leadership model designed for the future. The inclusion of Michael and Maria reflects the scale and complexity of the projects we now deliver, and our commitment to commercial and operational excellence.”
Michael Edwards, Finance Director and new equity partner added:
“Our inclusion in the shareholder group reflects the evolving nature of architectural practice. We’re here to ensure TODD is equipped for long-term growth; commercially, operationally and strategically, with strong outcomes for both clients and teams.”
With 90+ staff members across offices in Belfast, Dublin, London and Manchester, TODD Architects is consistently ranked in the Architects’ Journal Top 100 UK Practices. The firm is best known for its work on commercial, healthcare, residential, education and major civic projects, including landmark tourism attraction, Titanic Belfast.
Today’s announcement forms part of a wider series of personnel developments across the practice’s studios, which will be detailed in the coming months as TODD finalises a broader leadership and talent strategy to support future growth.
Peter Minnis commented:
“We’re proud of what TODD Architects has achieved since 1976 when it was founded by the late Barrie Todd. This transition has been carefully planned, and I am confident the business is in very capable hands. The next generation is ready.”
Paul Crowe added:
“Andrew, Daragh, Jim, Michael and Maria have the experience and vision to lead the practice forward, together they are a strong leadership group that reflects the multi-skilled nature of our business.”
The Practice has a wide spread of multi-sectorial projects across the Public and Private sphere throughout the UK and Ireland. Recent project highlights include the multi award-winning Student Hub for Queen’s University Belfast at Riddel Hall (Queen’s Business School), recognised in the 2025 RSUA and RIBA Awards, and the firm’s role as local lead design partner for Belfast Stories; a major civic project and tourism landmark.
The practice delivers a broad portfolio of public and private sector projects across the UK and Ireland. Recent highlights include the multi award-winning Student Hub for Queen’s University Belfast (part of Queen’s Business School at Riddel Hall), recognised in the 2025 RSUA and RIBA Awards, and its role as local lead design partner on Belfast Stories; a major civic and tourism landmark currently in development.
The practice reports annual turnover of approximately £8 million, having delivered steady growth over the past five years despite wider market challenges. The new board will prioritise investment in talent, digital design capabilities, and sector specialism while maintaining TODD’s commitment to local supply chains and community outcomes.
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