Solid Light Inc., a design-build firm creating emotionally engaging visitor experiences for civic, corporate and cultural destinations, has announced the expansion of its executive leadership team, promoting Mike Marnell to chief operating officer and Ben Jett to chief creative officer.
The moves demonstrate Solid Light’s dedication to nurturing internal talent and reflect a strategic initiative to consistently improve the client experience.
With years of experience in building departments, overseeing cross-functional teams, and leading major client projects, Marnell and Jett bring valuable institutional knowledge and a strong history of client-focused leadership to their new positions.
Internal talent
After a successful tenure leading the fabrication department, Marnell will now serve as COO, overseeing company-wide operations. He will focus on streamlining project delivery, aligning internal workflows, and ensuring seamless execution of all client and partner engagements.
“Growing with this company for many years has given me a deep appreciation for our people, our work, and the trust our clients place in us,” says Marnell.
“As COO, I’m excited to lead our next chapter—making sure our operations are as agile, efficient, and reliable as possible and giving our teams the support they need to do their best work and ensuring our clients enjoy a seamless experience from start to finish.”
As CCO, Jett will continue to lead the creative department and steer the company's overall creative vision, pushing design boundaries that celebrate authentic storytelling and engage audiences.
“I’ve had the privilege of watching our firm grow dramatically over the last 24 years. Our team today consistently exercises their talents and passions to create meaningful and dynamic spaces, invest deeply in our clients’ stories, and hold the visitor experience in the regard and respect it deserves,” says Jett.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to continue to empower our team, to elevate our design philosophy, and set new standards for innovation and client service.”
Steering the next chapter
“Mike and Ben have proven to be great leaders for Solid Light, our clients and partners. They naturally demonstrate strong character regardless of circumstance,” says Mike McCarthy, CEO of Solid Light.
“Having them step into the Executive Team ensures our clients and partners continue working with leaders who truly know this business inside and out.”
“Watching Mike and Ben grow as professionals and leaders over their many years with our firm has been deeply rewarding,” adds Cynthia Torp, founder of Solid Light and board chair.
“They have consistently stepped up to guide teams, shape our culture, and drive our success from within. The Board has complete confidence in their vision and ability to steer Solid Light into its next chapter.”
Solid Light recently completed an ownership transition and is now fully owned by its internal partnership group.
Charlotte Coates is blooloop's editor. She is from Brighton, UK and previously worked as a librarian. She has a strong interest in arts, culture and information and graduated from the University of Sussex with a degree in English Literature. Charlotte can usually be found either with her head in a book or planning her next travel adventure.
