Preconstruction Executive

Job Title: Preconstruction ExecutiveLocation: Nashville, TNIndustry: Commercial Construction (General Contracting)Employment Type: Full-Time, Direct HirePosition Summary:Our client, a high-growth commercial general contractor, is seeking a senior preconstruction leader who can turn complex opportunities into clear, executable plans while creating an exceptional experience for clients, design partners, trade partners, and project teams.This leader will provide executive-level strategy and oversight for preconstruction within an assigned sector, guiding work from pursuit strategy through project turnover. The role is accountable for accurate estimating, constructability, scope alignment, risk identification, value creation, and strong operational readiness.The right candidate will bring deep commercial construction expertise, financial discipline, executive presence, and the ability to lead through influence. Just as important, they will be relatable, grounded, collaborative, and energized by a fast-growing, entrepreneurial culture.Leadership Mandate:Translate sector strategy into disciplined pursuit and preconstruction executionCreate confidence in cost, scope, schedule, constructability, and risk before field mobilizationBuild strong relationships with clients, design partners, trade partners, and internal teamsDevelop a capable, accountable preconstruction team that performs with consistency and urgencyImprove systems, technology, and standards while challenging outdated ways of workingProtect project outcomes by ensuring a complete, transparent handoff from preconstruction to operationsResponsibilities:Preconstruction Strategy & Sector LeadershipLead pursuit, estimating, budgeting, design-phase planning, and turnover strategy for assigned sector opportunitiesPartner with Sector Leaders, Project Executives, Operations, Business Development, and executive leadership to align priorities and resourcesEvaluate project fit, client fit, risk profile, resource needs, and business opportunity; support disciplined go/no-go decisionsEstablish clear goals, KPIs, execution plans, and accountability for preconstruction performanceEstimating, Cost & Value CreationOversee conceptual and detailed estimates, GMPs, cost models, scope clarifications, quantity takeoffs, and risk assessmentsEnsure pricing is accurate, complete, market-informed, constructible, and supported by clear assumptions and documentationChallenge scope and design thoughtfully; develop value options that protect intent while improving cost, schedule, or executionMonitor escalation, labor availability, procurement constraints, and subcontractor market conditionsPursuits, Clients & Partner EngagementLead preconstruction strategy for pursuits, proposals, interviews, and early client conversationsBuild trust through preparation, transparency, technical credibility, creative problem solving, and reliable follow-throughDirect trade partner outreach, bid coverage, leveling, scope review, and procurement recommendationsDeliver a consistently exceptional client experience in every preconstruction interactionConstructability, Risk & Operational ReadinessLead constructability and risk reviews that surface design gaps, scope conflicts, sequencing issues, logistics constraints, and budget exposure earlyEngage Operations and field leadership in planning for schedule, safety, phasing, procurement, and site executionFacilitate thorough turnover that communicates the full project story, including commitments, assumptions, exclusions, risks, and opportunitiesProtect the company from preventable misses and downstream execution challengesTeam Leadership & Continuous ImprovementCoach and develop preconstruction talent through clear expectations, feedback, role clarity, and meaningful accountabilityBalance multiple pursuits and deadlines while deploying team resources intentionallyStandardize scalable workflows, templates, reporting, and best practices without creating unnecessary bureaucracyUse technology, data, and lessons learned to improve accuracy, speed, collaboration, and visibilityQualifications:10+ years of progressive commercial construction experience with substantial responsibility in preconstruction, estimating, project planning, or related functionsDemonstrated success leading preconstruction for complex projects and multiple simultaneous pursuitsAdvanced knowledge of estimating, budgeting, cost modeling, scheduling, constructability, procurement, delivery methods, and market conditionsExperience leading teams, developing talent, and influencing across Operations, Business Development, design teams, clients, and executive leadershipBachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, Architecture, Business, or a related field preferredStrong command of estimating platforms, Microsoft Office, project management tools, and relevant construction technologyLeadership Characteristics:Strategic and commercially minded: Connects pursuit decisions to profitability, capacity, client value, and sector growthTechnically credible: Can challenge assumptions, explain cost and risk, and earn confidence from expertsRelationship driven: Builds durable trust without relying on title or authorityGrounded and hands-on: Willing to dig into details, support the team, and do what the moment requiresClear and decisive: Turns complexity into recommendations, ownership, and timely actionCurious and innovative: Questions the old way and adopts better tools, methods, and ideasAccountable and dependable: Honors commitments and maintains follow-through from pursuit through turnoverCalm under pressure: Manages competing demands with composure, organization, and urgencyCulture Fit:Technical capability is required, but cultural alignment will determine long-term success. The strongest candidate will see this as a place to build, contribute, and challenge convention, not simply hold an executive title.Challenges convention: Thinks creatively and finds a better path without losing disciplineLeads with humility: Stays close to the work and steps in wherever the team needs supportBuilds alignment: Connects clients, design, preconstruction, operations, and trade partnersKeeps commitments: Communicates transparently, owns outcomes, and follows throughSpeaks plainly and brings clarity without unnecessary complexity or egoMoves comfortably between a client meeting, an estimating review, and a field conversationCares about how the team wins, not just whether their individual estimate was rightUnderstands speed, but does not trade away accuracy, transparency, or sound judgmentIs energized by growth, ambiguity, and the opportunity to build systems that can scaleRespects proven construction fundamentals while remaining open to technology and new approachesCreates confidence because recommendations are prepared, practical, and backed by follow-throughPotential Misalignment Indicators:Operates as a purely technical estimator and avoids client-facing or cross-functional leadershipRelies on hierarchy rather than relationships and influencePrefers rigid processes over adapting to project, client, and market realitiesKeeps information within preconstruction instead of creating a strong operational handoffIs uncomfortable with accountability, rapid growth, competing priorities, or evolving systemsPresents as polished but lacks depth in estimate validation, constructability, scope, and riskCompensation:Competitive base salary plus performance incentive and a comprehensive benefits package. Details will be shared with qualified candidates.How to Apply:This is a confidential search managed by Stoneway Talent Solutions. Qualified candidates should send a current resume to Thomas Lemberg at tlemberg@stonewaytalent.com. All inquiries are handled with complete discretion.