This fall, AMS Planning & Research stepped into a new phase of leadership—one that honors our legacy while setting a fresh course for how we support arts and cultural organizations. Bill Blake will now serve as Principal, and Jon Faris has taken on the role of Managing Principal, partnering alongside Founding Principal Steven Wolff.
With nearly 37 years of service to the cultural sector, AMS has grown through shared purpose, rigorous inquiry, and a deep commitment to community. Together, Wolff, Blake, and Faris bring to AMS over 90 years of combined experience across more than 1,300 projects and $16 billion in capital investments.
“Arts and culture bring people together—and that’s what makes this work so meaningful,” says Bill Blake. “I’m proud to help lead a firm that puts community, insight, and shared purpose at the center of everything we do.”
“As a client, I saw how AMS listens, questions, and guides with honesty and care,” says Jon Faris. “Now, four years into being part of the team, I’m excited to help carry that spirit forward in partnership with Bill and Steven.”
“With Bill and Jon formally joining the leadership team, we will serve our clients not only with continuity but with new ideas borne of hands-on experience in developing and operating important institutions and innovative programs,” says Steven Wolff.
Bill brings to our firm more than 14 years at AMS and a career rooted in translating creative vision into actionable strategy. Jon, who joined us after eight years as a client, now helps lead our team to extend our reach across diverse communities and organizations.
As AMS enters its next chapter, we remain grounded in the values that have always defined us: collaboration, data-informed insight, and a deep belief in the power of the arts to strengthen community and identity. This moment reflects what we’ve always believed: Great leadership is shared, grounded in listening, and focused on the future. We’re energized about what’s ahead and grateful to do this work alongside so many inspiring organizations and individuals.
