In conversation with Larisa Moran, COO of Woods Bagot

About Larisa Moran

Larisa is the Global Chief Operating Officer of Woods Bagot.

As the COO, she has responsibility for the operations of the global business including offices in 17 cities across 6 regions – Australia/New Zealand, China, South East Asia, North America, Europe and Middle East. Responsibilities include development and implementation of strategy, and responsibility for Information Technology, Design Technology, Human Resources, Legal, Risk, Practice Management, Knowledge and Research, Communications, Business Planning and Development.

What does #EmbraceEquity mean to you?

What is fair and equitable means different things to different people and is often influenced by one’s personal life experiences. Sometimes we might think we are being fair when indeed we are not as we have not clearly understood the full picture – it is difficult to navigate. But embracing something requires one to be proactive not passive, and we all have a huge role to play in this regard.

Can you tell us about your experience working in the architecture and design industry, especially on a global scale?

In my global role I have the privilege of working with very talented and passionate people from a range of disciplines, cultures and geographies who are all striving to deliver excellence – the richness of the diversity is exhilarating. No one day is the same, and I get the opportunity to see and experience the world with a cross section of individuals that bring very different perspectives. This is the essence of Global Studio and what makes Woods Bagot so special, and my job so rewarding.

“No one day is the same, and I get the opportunity to see and experience the world with a cross section of individuals that bring very different perspectives.”

What would you say to your younger self?

Back yourself, put yourself out there, don’t hesitate, and grab every opportunity.

What has been the highlight in your career / life?

I have a few highlights that I would call out:

Being the youngest partner appointed in the first firm I worked in, and the third ever female partner
Being bold and pursuing a career change that has delivered above my expectations
Being afforded the opportunity to have a family and a strong professional career due to the unwavering support of my husband and my children

To reach out to Larisa Moran, send a note here.

Stay tuned for more stories celebrating women leading the way in the architecture & design industry, groundbreaking projects and celebrating #EmbraceEquity for International Women’s Day.