Deborah Donley

Deb Donley is the Founder and Chief Experience Officer of Vocon. Since its inception in 1987, Debbie has grown the company to include a 250+ team of workplace strategists, designers, architects, graphics and branding specialists. Vocon is a Top 100 architecture and design firm, with a coast-to-coast clientele of Fortune 500 companies and an award-winning record of designing work environments that reflect cultures, personalities, strategies, and operational needs. Debbie believes in marrying design with workplace strategy to create offices that are ripe for creativity and collaboration and perfect for supporting clients’ evolving needs across a broad spectrum of fast-moving industries.

An expert in helping businesses navigate the pandemic-related disruption of offices and workplace culture, Debbie led the charge with Vocon – adapting to change and uncertainty through the strategic transformation of space. Debbie also set a standard for the industry by confronting the demands of an ever-changing planet through sustainable, flexible, efficient, and resilient building design. She is committed to inclusivity in employment, nurturing top-level talent and hiring diverse industry-leading experts. Throughout her career, Debbie has sought to create a culture of authenticity, acceptance, and inclusivity, enabling employees to bring their true selves to work. This effort has been widely recognized, with Vocon receiving numerous accolades, including the firm’s 19-time designation as one of Cleveland’s Best Places to Work.

Debbie measures success by the relationships the firm builds with clients. These critical connections are fostered by firm Principals’ active participation throughout every stage of a project’s life cycle. Debbie is a mother of three and is proud of the way that Vocon actively encourages employees to lead balanced lives with clear priorities. She is an active volunteer in the community, pursuing professional development opportunities with groups such as In Counsel With Women, the Greater Cleveland Partnership, the Group Plan Commission, and the Cuyahoga Community College Foundation. In addition, Debbie is a member of the University School Board of Directors and the Elon University Parent Council.