Director, Construction Operations

Brief Description

Russell is a professional services firm providing construction and development services across the Midwest. Since its inception in 1983, Russell’s culture promotes a collaborative work environment that strives to exceed our clients’ expectations and provide life-time career opportunities for our professionals.

Headquartered in Davenport, Iowa, with offices in St. Louis and Springfield, Missouri and Overland Park, Kansas, Russell has delivered more than $7 billion in projects across 34 states. We remain a market leader in our core markets, including new construction and complex additions and renovations.

At Russell, we are creating more than a project - we are building great people, relationships, and communities.

Life at Russell

The number one response we receive when we ask our team members what they like about Russell is the culture. Russell team members describe working here as being more flexible than any place they’ve ever worked. They feel supported and support each other. They have fun. They are empowered to get their work done how they see fit. And most of all, they know they can continue their careers here because of the rich development tools available to them. Life at Russell is full of opportunities.

How You’ll Contribute

The Director of Construction Operations plays a pivotal role in driving the growth and profitability of our Kansas City office's construction team. Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer, you will lead a high-performance team, ensuring projects are executed with precision and in alignment with our core values. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of leading large teams and partnering with real estate development teams, possess a deep understanding of commercial project management and a passion for delivering exceptional results.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and represent a "One Russell" philosophy with our team from conception of a project through turnover through using the standardized tools and practices to achieve consistent execution.
• Implement corporate goals and initiatives.
• Manage and support all aspects of the Russell business model, including development, sales, preconstruction, construction operations.
• Act as cultural ambassador for the Kansas City market, driving positive change and embracing emerging technologies to support sustainable competitive advantage.
• Understand local construction market and effectively negotiate construction contracts to Russell's best business and legal interest.
• Develop and nurture high performance teams through strategic hiring, engagement, supervision, training, coaching and mentoring.
• Lead by example by showing commitment through shared effort and being present and involved with the team.
• Effectively communicate and provide timely feedback to team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Manage all Ops focused team members for job chargeability.
• Oversee all construction project opportunities while managing all communication both internal and external.
• Oversee the budgeting process for the regional office, ensuring project-level budgeting and reporting excellence.
• Navigate contract negotiations, risk evaluation, and pricing decisions with finesse.
• Ensure flawless execution of all projects within approved budgets and schedules.
• Lead and support the construction team to achieve project goals, emphasizing safety, quality and exceptional client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.
• Drive competencies to the team on insurance, labor relations and employee relations requirements.
• Proactively forecast construction personnel and project requirements.
• Foster "trusted advisor" relationships with clients, architects, subcontractors and vendors.
• Actively engage with clients during key project phases and new business opportunities.
• Travel to job sites to evaluate project status, client and team satisfaction.

Requirements

Educational and experience requirements include bachelor’s degree in construction engineering, construction management, civil engineering or related field. At least 10 years' experience in a senior leadership role in the construction industry with a proven track record of successful leadership and operational excellence. Excellent leadership, interpersonal and organizational skills are vital.

• 10 years of successful commercial project management experience at a senior level.
• Proven success in design-build or negotiated construction environments.
• Ability to effectively negotiate the business and legal provisions of construction contracts.
• Resolves issues promptly for a 'win-win' solution.
• Advanced knowledge of construction means and methods, building types, estimating, scheduling, cost control and material pricing.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Natural leadership qualities and a commanding presence.
• Ability to navigate a dynamic and evolving environment with ease.
• Strong client focus with a dedication to building and maintaining successful relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to build, nurture and develop high performing teams through engaged leadership.
• Effectively prioritizes and balances big picture and immediate responsibilities.
• Ability to listen effectively, value the opinions of others and acknowledge contributions of others.
• Ability to communicate and work well with others at all levels.
• Ability to understand project and team issues early.
• Ability and willingness to establish positive interactions with other internal and external stakeholders.
• Adherence to Russell's Core Values: Demonstrate a commitment to Safety, Integrity, Client Centricity, Appreciating People, Community and Innovation.