Her Story
About Lisa
Lisa J. Syfrett is an Associate Principal and Administration Director at Hanbury, bringing more than 27 years of experience in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Her professional journey is one of perseverance, continuous learning, and a belief that leadership is not defined by a title, but by the impact we have on others.
Before beginning her career in the AEC industry, Lisa proudly served four years in the United States Navy, including a deployment aboard the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower. Following her military service, she began her civilian career as a receptionist at a branch office of an engineering firm in Virginia Beach, Virginia. What began as an entry-level administrative position evolved into a career built on curiosity, determination, self-directed learning, and a willingness to embrace new challenges.
Throughout her career, Lisa has advanced through increasingly responsible roles in project coordination, project management, and administrative leadership. At Hanbury, her progression from Project Coordinator to Senior Assistant Project Manager, and ultimately to Associate Principal and Administration Director, reflects both her dedication to the profession and her commitment to the firm's success. Becoming the first administrative professional in Hanbury's history to be elevated to Associate Principal remains one of her proudest accomplishments—not simply because of the personal achievement, but because of what it represents for other administrative professionals seeking opportunities for growth and leadership.
Lisa holds a Project Management Certificate from Old Dominion University and earned her Certified Design Firm Administrator (CDFA) credential through the Society for Design Administration (SDA). She has also been actively involved in SDA, serving in both local and national leadership roles, further demonstrating her commitment to advancing the administrative profession.
At the heart of Lisa's leadership philosophy is a genuine passion for people. She believes that one of the most meaningful responsibilities of a leader is recognizing the potential in others, helping them build confidence in their abilities, and creating opportunities for them to succeed. Having experienced firsthand the challenges administrative professionals can face in an industry traditionally focused on technical and design expertise, she is a strong advocate for elevating their visibility, recognizing their contributions, and establishing meaningful career pathways.
Lisa is particularly passionate about mentoring and developing the next generation of administrative leaders. She strives to create an environment where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to pursue their professional goals. Her approach to leadership is grounded in empathy, authenticity, collaboration, and accountability, with an understanding that being an effective leader also requires a willingness to learn, adapt, and grow.
While proud of her accomplishments, Lisa views leadership as an ongoing journey rather than a destination. She continues to challenge herself personally and professionally, with aspirations of becoming a Principal at Hanbury and contributing more broadly to the firm's strategic direction. Above all, she hopes her journey encourages others to recognize that professional success is not limited by where someone begins, but shaped by their determination, willingness to learn, and the opportunities they are empowered to pursue.
Outside of her professional life, Lisa enjoys spending time with her fiancé, family, and beloved Yorkie, Cosmo. She has also recently taken up crocheting, proving that her enthusiasm for learning new things extends well beyond the workplace.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Lisa
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, dedication, perseverance, and an unwavering commitment to giving my best in everything I do. I've always believed in taking initiative, embracing challenges, and continuously learning, even when the path forward wasn't clearly defined. Equally important have been the people who have believed in me, encouraged my growth, and provided opportunities along the way. Their support has reinforced my belief in the importance of investing in others and helping them recognize their own potential.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to never give up, believe in myself, and remember that I am enough. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that confidence doesn't always come naturally, but it grows through perseverance, embracing challenges, and stepping outside my comfort zone. I've come to understand that I don't have to know everything or have all the answers to be a successful leader. What matters most is trusting in my abilities, remaining open to learning, and recognizing the value I bring to the table. I strive to carry that same message forward by encouraging others to believe in themselves and recognize their own potential.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is to never allow anyone to define your limits, diminish your ambitions, or make you question your potential. We often hear growing up that we can be anything we want to be, and I believe that message is just as important in adulthood. Don't let fear, self-doubt, or someone else's perception of what you are capable of determine your future. Believe in yourself, embrace opportunities that challenge you, and never be afraid to pursue a path that hasn't been traveled before. Your career doesn't have to fit someone else's definition of success, and where you begin does not determine how far you can go. Be confident in the value you bring, advocate for yourself, and remember that you are capable of more than you may realize. Most importantly, dream the impossible and make it possible.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges, and perhaps one of the greatest opportunities, is shifting the perception of administrative and operations professionals within the AEC industry. Too often, these roles are viewed primarily as support functions rather than as essential contributors to a firm's overall success. I often compare our organization to a three-legged stool, with technical expertise, administration, and operations each representing a critical leg. Without any one of them, the organization cannot maintain its balance or reach its full potential. While our roles, responsibilities, and career paths may differ, the knowledge, expertise, and value each person brings deserve equal respect and recognition. I believe we have an incredible opportunity to challenge traditional perceptions, foster greater collaboration, and create a culture where every professional feels valued, empowered, and recognized for their contributions. Ultimately, our success depends not on any one discipline, but on how effectively we work together.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me, both personally and professionally, are empathy, emotional intelligence, authenticity, and respect for others. I believe everyone has a story, and we never truly know the challenges someone may be facing behind the scenes. Taking the time to listen, understand different perspectives, and lead with compassion can make a meaningful difference in someone's life. I genuinely believe in seeing the best in people, recognizing their strengths, and helping them see the potential they may not yet recognize in themselves. Whether in my personal relationships or as a leader, I strive to create an environment where people feel heard, valued, supported, and empowered to grow. I also believe that kindness and accountability go hand in hand, and that sometimes the greatest way we can support someone is by encouraging them to step outside their comfort zone. Ultimately, I want to be remembered not simply for what I've accomplished, but for the positive impact I've had on others and the confidence I've helped them discover within themselves.
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