Project Executive

Wharton-Smith•Sanford, FL

About The Position

Wharton-Smith, Inc. is seeking a Project Executive to work in Central Florida. This senior operational leader provides portfolio oversight and executive direction across multiple projects, operational teams, and business initiatives. The role drives strategic growth, operational performance, business development, client relationships, financial results, risk mitigation, and organizational excellence. The Project Executive is expected to bring a Doer-Seller mentality and contribute to long-term company growth, operational strategy, leadership development, and market expansion. The position serves as a primary executive liaison among company leadership, clients, consultants, regulatory agencies, and project teams, while supporting consistent operations and successful project delivery. Regular travel to project job sites and regional offices is required.

Requirements

Minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in construction operations and project management.
Proven track record managing operational leaders, financial performance, strategic growth initiatives, and client development.
Advanced knowledge of construction operations, project delivery methods, project finance, risk management, and organizational leadership.
Extensive experience with Design-Bid-Build, Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), Design-Build, and Progressive Design-Build delivery methods.
Strong understanding of construction processes, means and methods, and regulatory requirements applicable to project locations.
Ability to interpret and analyze owner contracts, civil, mechanical, electrical, and structural drawings, technical specifications, and other construction contract documents.
Extensive knowledge of project financial management, procurement strategies, contract administration, and operational risk mitigation.
Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, oversee operational performance, and drive successful project outcomes.
Strong strategic planning, organizational, and decision-making skills in support of long-term business growth and operational objectives.
Ability to manage multiple projects, competing priorities, and critical deadlines in a fast-paced construction environment.
Experience identifying, evaluating, and resolving complex operational, financial, and contractual challenges.
Strong leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills, including the ability to develop operational leaders and project teams.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and ability to collaborate with clients, consultants, subcontractors, regulatory agencies, executive leadership, and project teams.
Strong presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to anticipate project risks, evaluate potential impacts, and implement solutions.
Client-focused approach and commitment to exceptional service and strong client relationships.
Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, accountability, and leadership presence.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively while maintaining effective communication across departments and leadership levels.
Proficiency with standard office technology, including laptops, smartphones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and scanners.
Ability to perform office tasks requiring close vision, focus, and regular verbal communication.
Ability to occasionally lift and move office materials and supplies weighing up to 20 pounds.
Availability for a full-time, exempt schedule during standard business hours, with flexibility for extended hours, evenings, and weekends based on project schedules and operational needs.
Willingness to travel regularly to project job sites and regional offices.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide executive oversight and strategic leadership for multiple projects, operational teams, and regional business initiatives.
Lead operational planning, staffing strategies, financial performance management, and organizational development.
Develop and maintain executive-level relationships with clients, consultants, industry partners, and regulatory agencies.
Drive business development, market expansion, and project pursuit strategies through client engagement, industry events, presentations, negotiations, and contract development.
Oversee portfolio financial performance, including profitability, forecasting, budgeting, and operational risk management.
Establish and maintain operational standards, best practices, policies, and procedures across project teams.
Provide executive support for major contract negotiations, claims resolution, procurement strategies, and dispute management.
Collaborate with Preconstruction and Collaborative Delivery teams on project pursuits, proposal development, client presentations, procurement strategies, and project acquisition.
Lead mentorship, leadership development, succession planning, and organizational culture initiatives.
Promote operational excellence, safety leadership, quality assurance, and continuous improvement throughout operations.
Collaborate with executive leadership on strategic planning, growth initiatives, and long-term business objectives.
Represent the company through engagement with industry organizations, community partners, civic initiatives, and client events to strengthen relationships, support business development, and enhance the company’s presence in its markets.