NEW ORLEANS, LA — Trahan Architects, a global architecture firm based in New Orleans with design studios in New York City and Chicago, founded by Victor F. “Trey” Trahan III, FAIA, welcomes Julia LeBlanc, Director of Business Development and Communications to the firm. LeBlanc has experience in communications, strategy, public relations and business development. She will work cross-functionally and cohesively with the firm’s established Director of Marketing, Amanda Huhn, who has over a decade of experience in the architectural industry.

The addition of LeBlanc in a leadership role furthers Trahan's mission to advance and empower women in architecture. In a field dominated by men, Founder Trey Trahan has made a strategic initiative to build a team that supports gender equality at the firm.

“Growing up with three sisters and a strong mother, I have tremendous respect and admiration for independent and forward-thinking women," Trahan said. “[Julia is an] emerging thought leader who brings a fresh perspective and an entrepreneurial mindset to the firm.”

LeBlanc is a business development, communications and public relations executive with 15 years of experience domestically and abroad. She has held executive leadership positions at Viacom, David Yurman and most recently, led global strategic communications and marketing for the fine jewelry company, Marco Bicego. She is known for her success in creating long-term value through brand positioning and relationship development with customers and key influencers in the fields of business, commerce and organizational theory. In this role she will develop new business and strategically communicate the firm’s ethos of ecology, materiality and responsibility.

Since its inception, Trahan Architects has built a portfolio with a range of building types and scales, including academic, cultural, performing arts, ecclesiastic, residential, athletic, commercial, mixed-use and urban projects throughout the U.S. and overseas. Notable projects include The Coca-Cola Stage at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta, Georgia; The Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana; and a conservation and preservation undertaking at Corcovado National Park in Patagonia, Chile.