Fractional Manager

In a small construction company, the General Manager (GM) plays a pivotal role in overseeing both day-to-day operations and long-term strategy. Their duties span across multiple departments, ensuring projects run smoothly, financial health is maintained, and the business grows. It's very normal for a builder/owner to not have such a person on their team yet, but as the company builds up, they can incorporate a fractional or part time GM to assist with the following roles.  Here's a breakdown of the typical responsibilities of a General Manager in a small construction company:

• Business Development: Identifying new business opportunities, expanding client base, and forming strategic partnerships.
• Company Vision: Setting long-term goals for company growth and ensuring that all departments align with this vision.
• Decision Making: Making key decisions that impact operations, projects, staffing, and financial performance.

• Project Scheduling: Overseeing timelines for various construction projects, ensuring they stay on schedule.
• Resource Allocation: Managing the allocation of personnel, materials, and equipment to different projects to optimize efficiency.
• Problem-Solving: Addressing and resolving any operational issues or project delays that arise.

• Budget Oversight: Creating and managing company and project budgets, ensuring profitability and cost efficiency.
• Financial Reporting: Reviewing financial statements, analyzing profit margins, and providing financial forecasts.
• Cost Control: Identifying areas where the company can save money, reducing waste, and improving efficiency.

• Client Relations: Acting as the point of contact for key clients, ensuring satisfaction, and addressing concerns or changes in project scope.
• Contract Negotiation: Negotiating contracts with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors to ensure favorable terms for the company.
• Vendor Management: Managing relationships with suppliers and subcontractors to maintain quality and timely delivery of services and materials.

• Staff Management: Overseeing hiring, training, and development of employees across the company, including project managers, site supervisors, and office staff.
• Performance Monitoring: Setting performance goals for teams and individuals, conducting performance reviews, and implementing corrective actions when necessary.
• Culture Building: Creating a positive, productive workplace culture that encourages collaboration and motivates employees.

• Compliance Management: Ensuring the company complies with local building codes, safety regulations, and environmental laws.
• Health & Safety: Ensuring that safety policies are followed on-site, conducting regular safety audits, and addressing any safety concerns.
• Quality Control: Implementing processes to ensure high standards of quality in all projects.

• Sales Strategy: Developing sales strategies to attract new clients and projects, as well as maintaining relationships with existing clients.
• Marketing and Branding: Overseeing the company’s marketing efforts, including online presence, branding, and advertising.
• Bid Preparation: Reviewing and approving project bids, ensuring they are competitive yet profitable.

• Risk Assessment: Identifying potential risks in operations, projects, and finances, and implementing strategies to mitigate these risks.
• Insurance and Legal Matters: Ensuring the company has appropriate insurance coverage and managing legal contracts and disputes.

• Technology Implementation: Overseeing the implementation of construction management software and other technologies to improve operational efficiency.
• Data Analysis: Analyzing operational data to inform decision-making and improve processes.

• Company Performance: Providing regular updates and reports to company owners or stakeholders on the financial health, project status, and overall performance.
• Strategic Advice: Offering insights and recommendations for future investments, partnerships, and market opportunities.

• Sustainable Practices: Introducing eco-friendly building practices and materials where possible.
• Continuous Improvement: Identifying areas for improvement within operations, adopting new technologies, and ensuring the company stays competitive in the market.

In a small construction company, the General Manager balances hands-on involvement with big-picture leadership, ensuring that both projects and the company run smoothly. They focus on profitability, client satisfaction, team performance, and operational excellence while preparing the business for future growth.