The American Institute of Architects (AIA) named

as its new chief economist. Branch will analyze economic trends and construction markets, assessing their impact on architectural practice. He will also oversee the production of key indicators and reports to forecast construction activity and provide strategic guidance to AIA members.

Former AIA chief economist, Kermit Baker, will assist Branch’s transition to the role over the next several weeks.

“AIA has been fortunate to benefit from Kermit’s insights for more than 30 years, which have greatly served the profession,” says AIA executive vice president and CEO Carole Wedge. “We wish him the very best in his retirement. We are thrilled to welcome Richard to the AIA and look forward to leveraging his expertise to support our members and the industry.”

Branch recently served as chief economist for Dodge Construction Network. As head of the Dodge Economics Group, his primary focus was to ensure that Dodge provided tracking, analysis and forecasting of construction activity. This included overseeing the execution of the monthly Dodge Momentum Index and National Construction Starts research, as well as leading the annual Dodge Construction Outlook.