STEPHANIE ROCKE // PRACTICE DEVELOPMENT MANAGER & ARCHITECTURAL assistant

How LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT JESSOP AND COOK ARCHITECTS AND WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU WORK ON?

I've been with Jessop & Cook since August of 2023, and my roles have developed significantly within that time. I was appointed as Practice Development Manager (a brand-new position) in March of 2024 (utilising my professional background in Commercial Procurement and Business Strategy!) to spearhead initiatives that will optimise our business model to enable us to continue to deliver a ‘best in class’ service to all our clients. I am also undertaking the RIBA Studio Certificate course, and work on projects across various stages and sectors as an Architectural Assistant. Whilst working in dual roles certainly has it’s challenges, there is never a dull moment and the experience I’m gaining is invaluable!

WHAT SPECIFIC AREAS ARE YOU INTERESTED IN DEVELOPING WITHIN JESSOP AND COOK ARCHITECTS?

We have such an experienced, diverse group of Architects in our practice that I am spoilt for choice! I am particularly passionate about creating learning environments that are accessible to all (especially for those of us who are neurodivergent) and as such would love the opportunity to work on projects in the education sector that have a direct impact on the student experience.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING IN YOUR SPARE TIME?

I am a mother of two unique, and amazing boys (Al & Hayden) who keep me on my toes, and I’m also a student on the RIBA Studio Certificate course (working towards being a qualified Architect), so my spare time is limited! I’m a long-time fan of all things Horror and quite often give my overactive brain a break with films, series and books of that ilk. To feed my creativity and foster calm, I write. I have a lifetime ambition of publishing a novel one day and becoming the next Stephen King. Stranger things have happened!