Job Description

General Manager - Construction

The Company :

Our client is a large family-owned and operated excavation, environmental, and trucking company based in Michigan. With three locations, it serves the entire state. The company specializes in excavation and site work, MDOT road construction, environmental services, hydro excavation, demolition, oil and gas services, transportation, logistics, utility services, erosion control, shoring, equipment rentals, and trucking. Its strong, down-to-earth culture emphasizes safety, camaraderie, family, and supporting each other.

The Opportunity:

The General Manager (GM) is a dynamic leadership role with significant autonomy and decision-making authority. Responsible for overseeing daily operations, driving efficiency, and fostering growth, they will be tasked with creating structure and organization and ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget while growing overall revenue. Responsibilities include operational management, project oversight, equipment/resource management, financial administration responsibilities, client as well as stakeholder management, safety, compliance, team leadership, training, strategic planning, continuous improvement, business development, reporting, and planning.

This position reports to the CEO/Owner with four direct reports and matrix responsibilities to division heads.

Job Definition/Characteristics :

The General Manager will lead all operational aspects of a strategic company location, drive performance, manage team dynamics, and ensure exceptional service delivery and profitability. The GM will focus on optimizing operational performance, managing resources, and developing strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and team members. They will develop and implement this geography's strategic business plan to meet company growth objectives, set goals, and develop strategies to improve growth and efficiency.

Summary of Key Responsibilities:

This position will oversee the daily operations of the location, ensuring efficiency and productivity.

Operational Leadership

• Oversee all location operations, including but not limited to MDOT road construction, environmental operations, and hydro excavation operations, ensuring projects run smoothly from planning to completion.
• Develop and implement structured processes to improve efficiency and organization.
• Facilities management.
• Coordinate with clients, subcontractors, suppliers, and other company locations to optimize workflow and resource allocation.
• Conduct site visits to monitor project progress, enforce safety regulations, and resolve on-site challenges.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, building codes, and regulatory requirements.
• Optimize the use of project management, accounting, fleet management, and CRM systems to enhance productivity.

Financial & Strategic Management

• Prepare, manage, and review budgets to ensure financial stability and cost control.
• Track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success and identify areas for improvement.
• Lead budget review meetings, ensuring financial transparency and accountability.
• Develop and implement strategic business plans to drive revenue growth and operational excellence.
• Identify new business opportunities, partnerships, and market expansion strategies.
• Team with the bidding and estimating team to prepare and deliver competitive new business quotes.

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, and develop a skilled team, ensuring alignment with company values and objectives.
• Set clear goals and expectations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability.
• Conduct performance evaluations, provide mentorship, and implement professional development initiatives.
• Address personnel challenges with effective problem-solving and leadership strategies.
• Champion a workplace culture centered on safety, collaboration, camaraderie, and innovation.
• Collaborate with other members of the company leadership team.

Client & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary liaison for clients, ensuring clear communication and exceptional service delivery.
• Address client concerns proactively, providing solutions and maintaining long-term relationships.
• Represent the company at industry conferences, networking events, and community initiatives.

The Requirements:

• 8-10 years of progressive leadership experience in construction, excavation, or heavy equipment operations.
• Proven track record of operational management, business unit leadership, and project execution.
• Deep understanding of heavy equipment operations, safety protocols, and industry regulations.
• Proficiency in project management software and operational systems.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to build, develop, and mentor high-performing teams.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting, cost control, and financial planning.

Education:

• A bachelor’s degree in construction management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field is a plus.

Harvey Hohauser & Associates is a boutique retained executive recruiting firm. We partner with clients exclusively to find ideal candidates. We are experts in the placement of strategic, adaptive, and culturally aligned executives. Founded 35+ years ago and located in the metropolitan Detroit area, HH&A is a member of AESC.

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