What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Project Executive - Civil Construction position at Farmer Holding Company?
The Senior Project Executive is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and successful delivery of large-scale heavy civil construction projects. This role operates at the highest level within project management, overseeing all phases of project execution—from preconstruction and planning through completion and client closeout.
This leader will manage complex, high-value projects involving significant site development, infrastructure, and civil preparation scopes, while coordinating large subcontractor networks and internal teams. The Senior Project Executive is accountable for financial performance, risk management, client satisfaction, and operational excellence across assigned projects.
Location:
Travel is an essential component of this role. Actual travel frequency is driven by project location and business needs.
Key Responsibilities:
Project Leadership & Execution
- Provide executive-level leadership for large, complex heavy civil construction projects
- Oversee full project lifecycle including pursuit, preconstruction, execution, and closeout
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with quality and safety standards
- Lead and mentor Project Managers, Engineers, and field leadership teams
- Drive accountability across all project stakeholders
Preconstruction & Planning
- Lead preconstruction efforts, including budgeting, estimating coordination, and constructability reviews
- Partner with estimating and operations teams to develop competitive and executable project strategies
- Evaluate project risks, logistics, and sequencing plans prior to project start
- Establish initial project schedules, staffing plans, and procurement strategies
- Participate in client presentations, pursuits, and contract negotiations
Financial & Operational Oversight
- Maintain full P&L responsibility for assigned projects
- Monitor project financial performance including costs, forecasts, margins, and cash flow
- Implement corrective actions to address variances and protect profitability
- Approve major purchasing decisions, subcontractor awards, and change orders
- Ensure disciplined use of project controls and reporting systems
Subcontractor & Partner Management
- Oversee engagement and performance of large subcontractor networks
- Negotiate and manage key subcontract agreements
- Ensure subcontractors meet expectations related to safety, quality, and schedule
- Resolve escalated issues and maintain alignment across all partners
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Serve as the primary executive contact for clients, owners, and key stakeholders
- Build and maintain strong, long-term client relationships
- Lead high-level project meetings and provide strategic updates
- Ensure client expectations are met or exceeded throughout the project lifecycle
Risk Management & Compliance
- Identify and proactively manage project risks including contractual, financial, and operational risks
- Ensure compliance with all safety regulations, environmental requirements, and company policies
- Partner with legal, safety, and compliance teams on complex issues
Safety & Quality Leadership
- Champion a culture of safety-first execution
- Ensure strict adherence to safety programs and regulatory requirements
- Drive quality control standards and continuous improvement initiatives
Strategic Leadership
- Contribute to division-level planning and operational strategy
- Support business development efforts and identify future opportunities
- Provide input on staffing, resource planning, and organizational capability development
- Lead continuous improvement efforts across project delivery processes
Experience
- 10–15 years of experience in heavy civil construction
- Proven leadership of large-scale, complex projects (multi-million to $100M range preferred)
- Strong experience in site development, earthwork, utilities, grading, and infrastructure
- Demonstrated success managing large subcontractor teams and multiple stakeholders
- Experience leading preconstruction efforts and project pursuits
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (preferred)
Skills & Competencies
- Strong business and financial acumen
- Executive-level leadership and decision-making capability
- Exceptional communication and client management skills
- Advanced understanding of construction methods, sequencing, and risk management
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment
Key Success Metrics:
- Project profitability and margin performance
- Schedule adherence and milestone achievement
- Safety performance (TRIR / incident rates)
- Client satisfaction and repeat business
- Team development and retention