Studio Pacific Announces Appointment of two Associate Directors

Studio Pacific has boosted its governance expertise with the appointment of two Associate Directors – James Wallace and Marc Woodbury – who will join the Board of Directors for the next 12 months.

Studio Pacific’s Chair, Dr. Helen Anderson, says that as the Practice continues to evolve, James and Marc’s roles are important in adding to the diversity of perspectives that help govern Studio Pacific.  

“The Board is particularly keen to develop governance skills amongst Studio Pacific’s Senior Leadership Team, so the Associate roles have been created to provide that opportunity.  Both James and Marc bring extensive senior leadership and project experience across key sectors including commercial, education, residential and community buildings.  Their values and breadth of experience will help Studio Pacific continue to grow, to innovate, and to build a strong, sustainable future.”


James has been a part of Studio Pacific’s Leadership Team for a number of years and was appointed as a Principal in 2016.  Over this time, he has contributed to both project leadership, Studio research, and Studio leadership and governance.  During his 15 years at Studio Pacific, James has led a variety of our masterplanning, residential, education and community project teams as well as numerous Building Performance research projects.  He is dedicated to strengthening his understanding of Te Reo Māori and Mātauranga Māori and is passionate about working with iwi and hapū on their projects across Aotearoa.

James says he is looking forward to the opportunities that lie ahead. 

“I am really excited to be joining the board.  Amidst the unfolding Covid-19 pandemic and various market pressures, the next 12 months will be challenging.  However, it is also an exciting year for us as we mark Studio Pacific’s 30th anniversary.  Marc & I joining the Board is an important next step for our Practice and allows us the opportunity to help shape the Studio for the next 30 years.”


Marc has been a core part of the Studio team for over twenty years and was appointed to the role of Senior Principal in 2016. He has gained significant experience acting as project lead for a number of diverse projects and clients across multiple work sectors.  Most recently these projects have included complex, large scale commercial and public buildings with a focus on sustainability and mass timber technologies.  Within the Practice Marc plays a keen role in the development of quality documentation and the mentoring and professional development of emerging practitioners.  Marc brings previous governance experience to the Board, having served on the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB) for six years.

“This is an exciting time to join the Board as Studio Pacific evolves its Practice structure and governance models,” says Marc.  “I look forward to implementing these changes, embedding them and growing the Practice and its future leaders.“ 


Both James and Marc have played instrumental roles in the growth and success of Studio Pacific, collectively contributing creative and technical excellence, strong leadership skills, and providing the highest standard of client service.  We congratulate them on their appointment and acknowledge this is an exciting progression for the governance of Studio Pacific. 

James Wallace (left) and Marc Woodbury (right).

James Wallace (left) and Marc Woodbury (right).