Vice President, 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 Leawood, 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 Vice President 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

• 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 leading by example through strategic hiring, engagement, supervision, training, coaching and mentoring.
• 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.
• Lead and support the construction team to achieve project goals, emphasizing safety, quality and exceptional client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.
• Foster "trusted advisor" relationships with clients, architects, subcontractors and vendors.

Requirements

EDUCATIONAL AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

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.

• Advanced knowledge of construction means and methods, building types, estimating, scheduling, cost control and material pricing.
• Proven success in design-build or negotiated construction environments.
• Ability to effectively negotiate the business and legal provisions of construction contracts.
• Proven ability to resolve issues promptly for a 'win-win' solution.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to navigate a dynamic and evolving environment with ease.
• Strong client focus with dedication to building and maintaining successful relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to build, nurture, develop and retain high performing teams through engaged leadership.
• Ability to listen effectively, value the opinions of others and acknowledge contributions of others.
• Ability and willingness to establish positive interactions with other internal and external stakeholders.

About Russell

Russell is a commercial construction firm with offices in multiple markets. We use standardized tools and practices, so projects run consistently across the company. Our values are Safety, Integrity, Client Centricity, Appreciating People, Community, and Innovation.