Director of Preconstruction - Industrial Group

Essential Functions and Duties

Preconstruction Leadership

• Lead all preconstruction services including budgeting, conceptual estimating, GMP development, and value engineering.
• Oversee quantity take-offs, pricing strategy, and cost validation across all commercial projects.
• Establish preconstruction schedules and ensure timely delivery of all estimates and proposals.
• Develop and implement division-wide estimating standards, processes, and best practices.
• Ensure seamless handoff from Preconstruction to Operations with complete scope alignment.

Strategic & Financial Oversight

• Develop and manage annual preconstruction budgets and forecasting.
• Analyze historical cost data and market trends to improve pricing accuracy and competitiveness.
• Review and approve final bid strategy, subcontractor coverage, and contingency planning.
• Protect margin through disciplined risk assessment and scope analysis.

Client & Consultant Engagement

• Serve as primary preconstruction contact for owners, developers, and design teams.
• Lead conceptual budgeting and cost modeling during early design phases.
• Provide constructability input and value engineering solutions.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with subcontractors, suppliers, and consultants in the Charleston market.
• Support Business Development in pursuit strategy and interviews.

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, develop, and mentor estimators and preconstruction managers.
• Establish clear performance expectations and accountability metrics.
• Provide training on estimating systems, subcontractor engagement, and cost analysis.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, ownership, and continuous improvement.

Systems & Process

• Ensure proficiency and proper utilization of estimating software including:
  a. Timberline
  b. ISqFt
  c. On-Screen Takeoff
• Maintain working knowledge of design software platforms including:
  a. AutoCAD
  b. Revit
  c. Navisworks
  d. SketchUp
• Drive continuous improvement in preconstruction workflows and technology integration.

Market & Corporate Leadership

• Participate in strategic planning for commercial market growth in Charleston.
• Represent the company in industry associations and community events.
• Contribute to corporate initiatives focused on innovation and operational excellence.
• Ensure positive representation of the company within the local community.

Corporate Culture

• Demonstrate professionalism, integrity, and proactive leadership.
• Embody and promote company core values.
• Serve as a role model across the division.
• Promote collaboration between Preconstruction, Operations, and Executive Leadership.

Education and Experience

• 10 years of experience in commercial estimating or preconstruction.
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience overseeing estimating teams.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field preferred.
• Strong knowledge of commercial construction markets in the Southeast (Charleston market experience preferred).

Core Competencies

• Strategic thinker with strong business acumen.
• High-level negotiation and relationship-building skills.
• Strong financial and analytical capabilities.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple pursuits simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.