“My transition from the world of architecture to environmental graphics and signage was, in many ways, circumstantial but a very happy accident. I am enthralled buy the scale and intimacy of the designs we generate and the nuances of the process for integrating our work with that of the architect.”

Kanan Jayachandran

Director of Program Management

Kanan's architectural career, education and perspective are invaluable in her position as the leader of GNU's program management team. She has made a seamless transition from designing and managing architectural projects for a variety of building types, to the world of environmental graphics and signage. Her understanding of architectural plans, procedures, engineering systems and construction methodology greatly facilitates our efficacy at integrating signage and graphics within architectural spaces.

Kanan graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from the Institute of Environmental Design in Gujarat, India. Prior to joining GNU she practiced with a number of Bay Area architectural firms. Her experience includes residential, commercial education and civic projects and her roles have included design, documentation, permitting and project management.

Kanan has been instrumental in expanding one of GNU's key service areas. She managed the complex process of brand 'roll outs' for Barclays Global Investors World Headquarters and their subsequent conversion to Blackrock. This entailed the simultaneous change out of corporate identities in 72 locations around the globe. She also managed the introduction of Kaiser Permanente's VisionEssentials retail optical care program in 123 locations across the United States. She has honed the management of complex projects to an art form.

Kanan's architectural background has resulted in enhanced interaction with our architectural clients and collaborators. She is a skilled technician, inspirational team leader and excellent communicator.