Knickerbocker Group announces strategic leadership and department updates
Knickerbocker Group is pleased to announce Rick Nelson as vice president, joining Katryn Mitchell, who was promoted earlier this year. They lead complementary VP roles that advance the company’s growth and strengthen its award-winning design-build leadership. Mitchell oversees integration and operations, managing design, construction, and property care to streamline project delivery and align teams under a cohesive design-build-care strategy. Nelson focuses on culture, client experience, and growth, with responsibilities spanning strategic sales and business development, mentoring leaders and emerging talent, and elevating the client experience across all departments. He also plays a key role in articulating and advancing the core values and differentiators that define Knickerbocker Group—a foundation that has driven the firm’s success for nearly five decades. A graduate of Norwich University School of Architecture, Nelson is a licensed architect in Maine and an active member of AIA Maine, as well as local community initiatives supporting education, recreation, and sustainable building practices.
“Rick’s leadership, creative vision, and commitment to excellence have shaped our company for two decades,” said Danielle Betts, president of Knickerbocker Group. “Pairing his strategic, client-focused leadership with Katryn’s operational expertise creates a powerful foundation for our next chapter. Together, they will ensure we continue to set the standard for thoughtful design and integrated project delivery.”
As Nelson steps into this role, Knickerbocker Group is also implementing organizational enhancements within the design department. Architecture, Interior Design, and Landscape Architecture are now unified under a single design organization—an evolution that reflects the company’s commitment to collaboration, innovation, and design excellence.
Greg Norton, master of architecture (Rhode Island School of Design) and originally trained as a civil engineer (The University of Maine, Orono), has been appointed director of design, leading the newly integrated department. With nearly two decades of experience spanning architecture, building science, and project management, Norton is passionate about empowering designers, streamlining processes, and fostering strong client relationships.
“These updates reflect our continued investment in people, leadership, and the client experience,” said Betts, “by aligning our leadership structure and design organization, we are strengthening the integration that defines Knickerbocker Group—delivering thoughtful, enduring spaces through collaboration, creativity, and craft.”