This article was published by St. Louis Business Journal on November 6, 2025.
Tyra Duren, managing director of business services at Lawrence Group, leads several of the firm’s most critical departments, including talent development, technology & AI, marketing/data & analytics, and administrative services. In addition to overseeing these functions, she drives cross-functional collaboration, strengthens internal communication, and spearheads strategic initiatives that fuel the firm’s growth and operational excellence.
Since joining Lawrence Group as director of talent development in May 2022, Duren has played a pivotal role in transforming the firm’s workforce. Between her hiring and mid-2025, the firm welcomed 125 new employees — 59.2% of whom identify as female, nearly triple the industry average of 20% in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC).
Duren has also led efforts to diversify the firm’s internship program, recruiting the most inclusive class in company history through partnerships with local schools and national organizations. Her collaboration with institutions like Cardinal Ritter College Prep has introduced more young people to the AEC industry, including through an annual Design Day that brings high school students into the firm for hands-on design experiences. Under her leadership, Lawrence Group established a strategic partnership with the NOMA HBCU Development Program, fostering mentorship, recruitment, and networking opportunities for underrepresented architecture students.
—Melissa Meinzer
What’s your biggest accomplishment from the past year?
This past year, my biggest accomplishment was stepping into a new executive leadership role and beginning the process of aligning four diverse business service lines under a single, cohesive vision. The transition has called for both strategic planning and relationship-building, fostering a culture that values team-based success alongside individual contributions. I’ve focused on creating shared goals, streamlining processes, and reinforcing a culture rooted in our values of Legendary, Innovation, Growth, Heart, and Trust. While this work is still in progress, laying the foundation for greater collaboration, accountability, and morale across the firm has been both challenging and deeply rewarding.
What do you hope to accomplish by the time you’re 50?
By the time I reach 50, I hope to leave a lasting legacy of impact both within my organization and in the broader community. Professionally, I aspire to build a best-in-class business services infrastructure that not only drives business growth but also sets a new standard for employee experience in the development, design and construction industries. Personally, I want to expand my influence as a thought leader — speaking globally, and coaching leaders to unlock their fullest potential. Beyond titles and metrics, my ultimate goal is to create spaces where people thrive, opportunities multiply, and future generations can look back and say, “she paved the way.”
Who would make the guest list for your dream business lunch?
My dream business lunch would bring together an eclectic mix of leaders whose influence spans industries and generations. At the table would be Oprah Winfrey for her unmatched wisdom in personal branding and storytelling, Michelle Obama for her authenticity and leadership with heart, and Indra Nooyi for her visionary approach to global business strategy. I’d also invite Bob Pragada, CEO of Jacobs, for his expertise in leading a global organization and driving innovation in the built environment, and Mellody Hobson for her financial acumen and fearless advocacy for diversity in boardrooms. Finally, I’d include a rising Gen Z leader to ensure the conversation incorporates forward-thinking perspectives. Together, this table would offer inspiration, accountability, and bold ideas that challenge me to lead with greater clarity and courage.
Your fantasy job: Chief strategy and culture officer for a global firm, blending people, brand, and business growth.
Your go-to spot in St. Louis: Forest Park — it’s equal parts peaceful retreat and cultural hub.
Last book you read: “Drop The Ball” by Tiffany Dufu
Hobbies: Coaching, event planning, interior design, and creating family memories.
More about Tyra Duren
Age: 34
Education: Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Jackson State University; dual master’s in human resources management & human resources development from Webster University
Family: Married to Javier Duren; proud mom of Xavier Josiah Duren, and surrounded by a supportive extended family.