Biography
Sonya is a Principal and Global Account Director who leads workplace strategy initiatives that guide global organizations through cultural, technological, and organizational change, while aligning real estate decisions with business priorities and employee experience.
With more than three decades of experience, Sonya works at the intersection of design, research, and human experience. She guides global workplace projects, portfolio strategies, change communications, and new ways of working for leading organizations across financial services, consumer goods, technology, media, healthcare, and professional services. Sonya serves on Gensler’s Client Relationship Management Committee, advising leadership on service excellence, stakeholder engagement, and mission-aligned partnerships. A frequent international speaker and committed mentor, she advances collaboration, inclusive participation, and meaningful connection across cultures and generations.
Rather than focusing solely on how many days employees are in the office, we should analyze how people use different spaces to better understand behavior and create more adaptable, high-performing workplaces that support evolving business needs.
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Qualifications and Recognition
Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, Michigan State University
CIDQ; LEED Accredited Professional
Fellow, American Society of Interior Designers (ASID)
Member, CoreNet Global New York City Chapter
Advisory Board Member, New York School of Interior Design
Innovator Honoree, Bisnow New York Power Women in Real Estate, 2024
Honoree, Interior Designers for Legislation, 2019
Design Award of Honor, Society of American Registered Architects, Boston Consulting Group, 2018
Designer of Distinction Award, ASID, 2015
College of Fellows, ASID, 2011
Speaker, New York Build Conference, 2026
Panelist, ISG Future Workplace Summit: “The Untapped Potential of Data - Optimize Workplace Performance” 2024
Panelist, NAIOP Roundtable: “Leveraging Real Estate Experience Technology” 2024
Panelist, HqO Fall CRE Leadership Forum, Discussion on new Metrics for Success and Budgeting for Experience and Hospitality, 2023
Speaker, Kayo Women’s Investor and Developer Conference, “Designing Experiences” 2017
Presenter, ASID at ICFF, “A New Spirit of Work Life Place” 2014
President, CoreNet Global NYC Chapter
Chair, ASID Fellows Council
Board Member, Global Nomads Group
Advisory Board Member, Rutgers University Customer Experience Program
Board Member, Design Ignites Change
Advocate and Supporter, Girls Education and Mentoring Services (GEMS)
Mentor, Real World Design Week