VP of Construction

Vice President of Construction Operations

Location: Chicago, IL (with travel to Dallas, TX, and project sites as required)

Reports to: Chief Operating Officer

About the Company

A dynamic and expanding construction firm, renowned for delivering exceptional commercial projects with specialized expertise in affordable housing, healthcare, and education sectors, is seeking a visionary leader to drive construction operations to new heights of excellence in key markets like Chicago and Dallas.

Position Overview

The Vice President of Construction Operations is a pivotal executive role, accountable for the strategic oversight, profitability, and seamless execution of the company’s construction portfolio. This leader will champion operational excellence, oversee full P&L accountability, and guide high-performing field and project management teams while driving strategic business development to fuel growth across multiple markets.

Key Responsibilities

Client & Stakeholder Leadership

• Act as the primary executive liaison for key clients, fostering trust and securing repeat business.
• Spearhead relationship management to enhance the company’s industry reputation and win future projects.
• Collaborate with leadership to identify and close new business opportunities.

Business Development & Market Expansion

• Contribute to go/no-go decisions and craft winning proposal strategies.
• Identify emerging markets, key accounts, and strategic partnerships to drive growth.
• Provide market insights to position the company as a leader in affordable housing, healthcare, and education sectors.

Subcontractor & Vendor Strategy

• Cultivate high-performing partnerships with subcontractors and vendors.
• Oversee subcontractor prequalification, onboarding, and performance to ensure alignment with project goals.

Project Oversight & Issue Resolution

• Serve as the escalation point for complex project challenges, including delays, budget issues, and disputes.
• Lead resolution of change orders, contractual modifications, and stakeholder conflicts.
• Ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

P&L and Operational Excellence

• Own P&L for construction operations, driving profitability and cost efficiency.
• Establish and monitor KPIs, including gross margin, backlog health, and budget variance.
• Lead forecasting, resource planning, and financial reporting in collaboration with finance and executive teams.

Organizational Leadership

• Partner with the COO to shape the company’s strategic vision and operational goals.
• Drive continuous improvement of SOPs, project delivery systems, and construction processes.
• Collaborate with HR to recruit, develop, and retain top construction talent.
• Ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and safety standards across all operations.

Travel

• Regular travel to project sites and regional offices, primarily in Chicago, Dallas, and other strategic markets.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of construction management experience, including 10+ years in senior operational leadership.
• Proven expertise in P&L management and delivering profitability in high-volume environments.
• Strong background in business development, client acquisition, and market positioning.
• Extensive experience managing complex commercial projects in affordable housing, healthcare, or education.
• Proficiency in scheduling, project controls, risk management, and contract negotiation.
• Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and executive leadership skills.
• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, or related field; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., PMP, CCM, LEED) preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary starting at $185,000, with performance-based bonuses.
• Car allowance or company vehicle.
• Comprehensive health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth.

Join a leading construction firm and lead transformative projects that shape communities. Apply now to drive innovation and excellence in construction operations.