Josh Kassing
Managing Principal
As MCA’s Managing Principal, Josh brings unbridled enthusiasm and in-depth experience to his leadership role. Over the past several years, he has been instrumental in transforming MCA’s culture, expanding services, strengthening operational efficiency, and driving profitability. His forward-thinking perspective and innovative approach continue to fuel MCA’s position as an industry leader.
Josh’s leadership position operates in tandem with Founder/CEO Mary Cook and MCA’s senior leadership team. He is responsible for the firm’s day-to-day operations and leading the execution of the firm’s strategy across its fully integrated services, including interior architecture, interior design, strategic positioning, branding, procurement, and installation.
His oversight of project performance coupled with a commitment to continued excellence helps clients lead in their markets through thoughtful strategy, design, and execution of all client services. His knowledge of the market and ability to anticipate client needs inspires his passion for innovation and drives MCA’s next-phase growth.
Prior to being named Managing Principal, Josh served as Senior Vice President where he focused on expanding existing client relationships, establishing new business divisions, services, and geographic markets, and propelling MCA to the forefront of multifamily and student housing development.
Josh joined MCA in 2017 as Creative Director and advanced to VP Design Development just two years later. In these roles Josh championed design teams to deliver highly engaging, human-centered environments while bridging creative results with forward-thinking business development.
Since joining MCA, he increased MCA’s vast network of strategic collaborators that include developers, architects, branding firms, and marketing and leasing consultants. He also spearheaded several new initiatives including the launch of Built to Spec, Partner in Yes, and comprehensive visualization services.
Earlier in his career, he worked at SOM (Skidmore, Ownings, and Merrill), a prominent Chicago architectural firm, on all phases of design for domestic and international commercial, residential and hospitality projects. He also designed domestic and international luxury hospitality projects for The Gettys Group, a global hospitality firm.
A highly sought after source for the media and professional organizations, Josh provides insights and perspectives on trends shaping the future of the industry. He is a regular presenter, moderator, and panelist at premier conferences such as InterFace Student Housing Conference, NMHC Annual Meeting, and NMHC Student Housing Conference.
Josh is also a frequent podcast presenter and author. His articles have appeared in an array of industry publications including Mansion Global, RE Journal, Multi-Housing News, Multifamily Executive, Builder and Developer, Green Home Builder, and IIDA Perspectives.
Josh is a full member of Urban Land Institute (ULI) and was also accepted to ULI’s Chicago Product Council (CPC) Blue Flight. Pro Builder Magazine recognized Josh on their “40 Under 40” list in 2024. He also was named a CRE Rising Star and received an Outstanding Young Professional Award from Iowa State University College of Design in 2025.
Originally from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, Josh received his Bachelor of Architecture and Master of Fine Arts in Interior Design from Iowa State University where he also served as a studio instructor for the College of Design. He continues to give guest lectures and mentor undergrads there.
In his free time Josh enjoys transforming and flipping upscale vintage urban residences. You can also find him playing the piano, eating good food and drinking good beer, or on a plane (destination anywhere + everywhere).