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Robert Olvera
Robert Olvera is an architect who sees complexity simply as a sum of parts. Through a methodical approach, he recognizes how built projects are truly a series of well-intentioned decisions aligned around a shared vision. As a Principal and PDR’s Director of Project Performance, he brings a steady, disciplined perspective to every team he leads.
Robert believes a healthy architectural process is deeply layered. It begins with simple criteria — the budget, schedule, and core effort. This lays the groundwork for a well-managed process in which he then empowers his design teams to take ownership from pre-design through delivery. Robert has a keen understanding of the psychology of teams and realizes the significance of human performance synergies in project success. His leadership style builds focused, supported and collaborative project teams that make great work happen.
Since joining PDR in 2004, Robert has led large-scale project teams for a variety of major energy sector clients including OXY, CITGO, Imperial Oil, Chevron, Statoil, and BG Group. Robert has also led significant smaller-scale project teams for global firms in many other industries, from law to banking to financial services. Agnostic of project scale or industry, his process is unwavering, strong — and healthy. As a leader focused on team excellence and wellbeing, he supports each individual to own their role and flourish.
Education
Bachelor of Architecture, Minor Construction Management
University of Houston
Interests
Favorite Food: Pizza
Favorite Movie: The Sandlot
Favorite Activity: Sports with kids
Robert is well-versed in the relationship between workplace strategy and design. His thoughtful leadership creates synthesis within cross-functional teams and results in incredible gains for client organizations and their people. Most notably, Robert led a team of workplace strategists, change management consultants, designers, architects, and brand specialists to deliver an effective pilot space for a Fortune 500 client. The carefully chosen office furniture configurations, color palettes, and architectural elements in the pilot are a testing ground for what will become a future workplace for 3000+ people.
Robert’s knowledge of investment strategies and expertise in production standards make him a trusted advisor to teammates, collaborators, and clients alike. A measured, disciplined, seeker of consensus, Robert calmly stretches teams toward excellence.
