Diane Hoskins leads Gensler as global co-chair after non-linear career path

In May 2025, Diane Hoskins, global co-chair of architectural design firm Gensler, shared her unique path to success with CNBC. Starting her journey in childhood, she developed an early passion for architecture through Legos and other building toys. This enthusiasm led her to pursue a degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where she honed her architectural skills. Upon graduation, Hoskins landed what she considered her 'dream job' at a prestigious architectural firm. However, she quickly realized that this experience did not meet her expectations. Instead of fostering creativity, the work environment revolved around the single vision of the firm’s leader, leaving little room for collaboration. This experience taught her an important lesson about career choices; she understood the significance of aligning her job with her values and aspirations. Later, dissatisfied with the lack of creativity in her role, Hoskins chose to pivot and pursue an MBA to enhance her understanding of real estate development and client perspectives. She emphasized the importance of innovation in business, asserting that a broader range of experiences benefits industries such as technology, where cross-domain perspectives can lead to better tools and solutions. By following her instincts rather than societal expectations, Hoskins carved a unique path in her career. In 2024, she was appointed global co-chair, a position reflecting her belief in collaborative leadership at Gensler, differentiating it from traditional CEO structures. Over the decades, Gensler has expanded its global reach, employing around 6,000 employees across 57 locations in 16 countries while generating close to $2 billion in revenue last year. Hoskins’ journey reflects not only personal growth but also the evolving landscape of the architectural profession, demonstrating that success can come from unconventional pathways and a commitment to innovation and teamwork.