“We see design as not only bringing the client’s vision to reality, but taking their opportunities and making them so interesting, and creating solutions so constructive, that their vision evolves into something more.” Sloan Harris, CEO | Partner of VLK Architects.
Meet the innovative, passionate, and visionary leader, Sloan Harris. He’s the CEO and Partner of VLK Architects, who has steered the firm’s growth and evolution to establish VLK as one of today’s most successful and innovative firms in the industry. Sloan’s abilities as a strategic manager, designer, and entrepreneur and his commitment to improving the communities VLK serves, positioned him for leadership since joining the firm 20 years ago. His journey sets an example for many forward-thinking entrepreneurs and leaders who envision marking their presence in their respective industries.
The Journey
Sloan’s journey in architecture began with undergraduate studies in the School of Architecture at the University of Texas in Arlington, where he also completed his Master of Architecture and Master of Business Administration. He then joined VLK Architects as a Construction Administrator in 2003.
By January 2019, he was named CEO. Since becoming Principal and then Partner, VLK has expanded to five locations from two, diversified its service markets, and grown annual earned revenue by 400%.
Sloan sums up by saying, “I joined VLK Architects in 2003 and have never looked back. The culture that was created by the firm’s founders and the opportunities afforded to me were the perfect environment for me to learn and develop.”
About VLK Architects
Established in 1984, VLK designs the places where life happens; places for living, learning, working, and playing. It has served hundreds of clients in every corner of Texas across its five offices where it designs exemplary environments, innovative structures, and sustainable communities for tomorrow. Some recent notable projects include Denton High School, the Allen ISD STEAM Center, Katy ISD’s Gerald D. Young Agricultural Science Center, Grubbs Volvo, and the 701 Magnolia, a mixed-use project in Fort Worth’s Near Southside District that serves as VLK’s headquarters.
The Art of Business
Sloan says he is driven to build strong relationships. That means as a team, VLK serves as a passionate advocate for clients, putting their needs before its own and that the team is responsive to clients’ needs and receptive to their input. Sloan tells us, “Over time, that kind of devotion results in trust and respect – in short, an authentic partnership. Which in turn often results in a repeat client. There is no higher honor. Also, there is no finish line. I am never satisfied and always looking for new opportunities which is a strong primer for our firm’s growth and innovation.”
Leadership Lessons
Sloan believes leading an organization is not a skill as much as it is a mindset – putting empathy in the front of your mind for everything you encounter. He also believes in not letting the things you cannot control have control over you. Every day brings some kind of new challenge, and the skills for leading an organization through that include empathy, resilience, communication, and accountability.
At VLK, the team combines purpose with creative thinking to plan and design compelling, innovative solutions for its clients.
Fostering a Productive Culture
“At VLK, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We strive to provide a work environment that embraces the passion and creativity our employees have in their personal lives because it enhances the caliber of our work.”
As an adept leader, Sloan underscores the importance he places on hiring the right team members in the first place, people who will thrive in the VLK culture, where they can express themselves and creatively collaborate with their teammates, all within an environment that brings joy.
He explains that VLK provides opportunities for people to explore their interests and that with all of that, they’re going to be more productive, and the work is going to be exceptional.
Overcoming Challenges
In terms of coping with challenges, Sloan says that from a business standpoint, one has to build a smart, creative team, cultivate a motivating culture, and set a vision for uncompromising excellence. He continues, “And you have to allow your people to fly on their own. You surround yourself with talent and expertise and put them in a framework that they can thrive in. You must realize that you need to be less of an expert in one thing and grow teams of experts beyond your own abilities. And most importantly – balance.”
Personally, Sloan says spending time with his family and getting outdoors to ski or mountain bike helps to recharge his batteries.
Looking Down the Road – the Next Five Years
There’s a lot of opportunity in the firm’s newer Central Texas markets, so VLK will focus on business development strategies there while continuing to maintain and responsibly grow market share where VLK is well established. Sloan sees the metrics for strategic vision over the next five years as qualitative more than anything. He says, “VLK wants to continue to work with great partners and continue to do innovative work for them, just at a higher level.”
Words of Wisdom
“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.”
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