JAMES R. WASSER, AIA, LEED AP
21 Spencer Street, #214,
Lebanon, NH 03766
603.667.5895/
To Whom It May Concern:
I am interested in a Senior Architect position with a path toward partnership. Currently employed as a senior architect with a small firm in New Hampshire’s Upper Valley, I am looking to relocate closer to family in the Boston area and find a position that better maximizes my abilities.
I have over 25 years of design, technical and management expertise--12 of those as a principal in firms both here in New England and in Portland, Ore. My particular strengths are in sustainable retail/food market building design and interior layout, feasibility studies and master planning, building assessment, code analysis,and retail fixtures and equipment specification. This expertise is complemented by my ability to organize large assemblies of client representatives, consultants, contractors, suppliers and code officials to facilitate design, contract documents and construction and meet tight timelines and precise budgets such as those typically expected in the retail world.
As the attached resume highlights, I have played a significant role in the development or rehabilitation of two-dozen major food stores, restaurants and a variety of other retail establishments. I am thoroughly conversant with most aspects of the retailing business--from fixture layout, to refrigeration design, to the mechanics of shopping. Much of that experience was gained through my work with two mid-sized regional, independent food retailers specializing in organic/ sustainable/specialty foods; more recently my expertise has been tapped for award-winning projects involving two robust local food coops. These retailers share authentic commitments to build from the neighborhood up, to interact dynamically and cooperatively with their physical surroundings; to use design as a fundamental component of the shopping experience. In addition, I have a wealth of experience with a variety of other project types, from religious buildings through homeless shelters, to custom, high-end private houses. I have served in management roles as a principal partner in a thriving 9-person firm and sole-practitioner working out of my house and as a fundamental cog in a larger project team.
A common thread running through my work is the close relationship, mutual trust and respect I enjoy with my clients. I have worked collaboratively with all levels of their organizations, from general and operations managers, marketing personnel and graphic designers to a variety of departmental managers, maintenance folks and employees—meeting regularly from a project’s conception, through design development, constructionand opening to assure a successful result.
My skills, experience and leadership style make me an ideal candidate for an architectural position specializing in retail facilities, general design, building renovation and master planning. I can be reached at the above email address or telephone number.
Sincerely,
Jim Wasser