Michael Baker International Enhances HR Leadership with Brian Pursch
On September 21, 2026, Michael Baker International, a well-established leader in engineering, architecture, and digital solutions, announced the significant appointment of Brian Pursch, SHRM-SCP, as their new Vice President, Human Resources Business Partner Lead. This strategic role is paramount for the firm, aligning human resources initiatives closely with organizational goals to boost effectiveness and long-term growth.
Brian Pursch will be tasked with spearheading the human resources strategy within Michael Baker International. With almost 25 years of experience in human resources across various sectors, including architecture, engineering, and technology, Mr. Pursch will play a critical role in shaping and advancing the firm's workforce strategy. He is committed to ensuring that the company's talent and people strategies resonate with its overarching business objectives.
Tanya Currie, the Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Michael Baker International, expressed her confidence in Pursch's capabilities by stating, "Brian brings a deep understanding of how people strategies can accelerate business performance." His leadership will also involve working side-by-side with senior executives to implement organizational changes and guide data-driven insights that will ultimately fortify employee engagement and improve business outcomes.
Leading the team of Human Resources Business Partners (HRBPs), Brian aims to instil a consistent and impactful approach to talent management within the organization. Key areas of focus will include talent strategy, succession planning, leadership growth, career development, and performance enhancement. His strategy hinges on cultivating a robust environment where employees can thrive, which in turn contributes positively to the firm's overall performance.
Prior to joining Michael Baker, Pursch served as Chief People Officer at PBK, a leading K-12 architecture and engineering firm, overseeing all HR functions there. He has a robust background that includes senior leadership roles at Kongsberg Maritime, EthosEnergy, and Wood Group, as well as significant international experience with Baker Hughes, offering him a multidimensional perspective on workforce management.
Educationally, Pursch holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Management and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Texas A&M University. His credentials as a SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) further highlight his expertise in the human resources domain.
About Michael Baker International
Michael Baker International has been a trusted partner in delivering engineering, architecture, consulting, and digital technology services for over 85 years, operating across various sectors and projects. The firm is dedicated to innovation and quality service, with a culture that emphasizes collaboration and technological advancement. With over 6,000 employees distributed across more than 120 offices worldwide, Michael Baker is committed to making a difference for both clients and communities.
For further information, visit
mbakerintl.com.
In summary, Brian Pursch’s appointment is a strategic move by Michael Baker International to strengthen its human resources function and to advance its commitment to cultivating a dynamic workforce that can adapt to ongoing challenges and opportunities.