Abacus Architects, Inc. announced a new leadership team, with principal designer, Eric Halbur, becoming president and CEO.
He will be responsible for the overall leadership and strategic growth of the firm. Halbur joined Abacus Architects in 2013 as an architectural designer and project manager.
“I am extremely blessed and grateful to the founders of Abacus, and for their confidence in me to make sure we carry on their legacy,” said Halbur. “God willing, we will continue to grow our team, clients and communities we serve. Having fun and building something bigger than ourselves . . . that’s what it’s all about.”
In addition, to Halbur, the executive team includes:
- Paul Mentink, vice president and chief operating officers
- Joel Van Ess, treasurer and CFO
- David Van Dixhorn, CDO
The firm was set up to intentionally plan for successions, giving existing and future associates the opportunity of possible ownership. Robert Heimerl, a registered architect, is one of four founding members of Abacus Architects, along with Paul Mentink, Kurt Davis and Joel Van Ess.
“I co-founded Abacus Architects with a vision of creating a team-focused firm that prioritizes strong client relationships over individual profit. I wanted to ensure a good transition of leadership and ownership,” said Heimerl, now focused on design and business development. While Robert isn’t sure he will ever fully retire, he’s looking forward to this next chapter. “The future of our firm looks bright with Eric as the new president; he’s been an integral piece to our current success. I’m excited to be a part of the changes while passing the torch, so to speak, to someone I know is as passionate about our firm as I am.”
Mentink, registered architect and principal, said, “This whole transition process has gone really well. There is a renewed energy and excitement in the company. We spent the time to put together a vision, and the employees have really gotten behind it. We have an awesome team, and I feel like we now have the people in place to make growth a priority, without sacrificing our commitment to our clients.”
Principal and professional civil engineer, Joel Van Ess, said, “We have been extremely blessed over the past 20 years, and I’m eager to see what the Lord has planned moving forward,” says Van Ess. “Eric is a great leader who understands our priorities. I’m very excited about the future of our firm and inspired to help him, and our team, any way I can.”
Van Dixhorn joined the team in April with over 20 years of real estate and development experience. Van Dixhorn has already made an impact, helping revenue increase in the short time he’s been onboard.
“I have a passion for making things better and look forward to building upon the great foundation our founders established over the past 20 years,” said Van Dixhorn. “I’m excited and honored to be part of the new leadership team and believe the best is yet to come.”
This reorganization provides the necessary structure for the firm to achieve their desired growth. Since its inception, Abacus Architects has been dedicated to offering personalized, hands-on support to clients. Focus will be on expanding their two primary offices in Sheboygan and Milwaukee, continuing to fortify their ability to effectively serve communities on a local and national level.
