Dan Hannon

At Chesapeake Contracting Group, the “Captains of Chesapeake” series highlights the leaders who drive our growth and success. Our latest feature focuses on Dan Hannon, Senior Vice President, NC Operations, whose career is defined by resilience, continuous learning, and a willingness to take on challenges. 

Dan’s journey into the construction industry began after high school when he worked as a laborer. After three years, he realized he wanted more and decided to pursue his education. Dan attended The Ohio State University but soon realized civil engineering wasn’t his path. He transferred to Columbus State Community College and later to Capital University, where he earned degrees in Business Administration and Construction Management. 

These two degrees laid the foundation for Dan’s successful career. After graduation, he joined the second-largest builder in the United States. While with the company, Dan relocated to Maryland to help open a new manufacturing facility, eventually transitioning into construction. He started in administration and accounting, working his way up to Senior Project Manager. Over the years, Dan gained experience in nearly every sector of the construction industry, from manufactured housing to real estate development, before eventually joining Chesapeake. 

After seven years at Chesapeake and with prior experience on several projects in North Carolina, Dan offered to relocate when the company saw an opportunity to expand into the Raleigh market. He brought with him a wealth of experience and a passion for building lasting relationships. 

At Chesapeake, Dan primarily focuses on multifamily and industrial work, and his leadership style reflects a deep commitment to the success of his team. “I tell everyone, if you don’t understand what is required to accomplish the task, ask as many questions as you need to,” he says. “Then, apply your 5R’s to their fullest and execute. I’ll always challenge my team to be their best, but I’ll also be there to assist them every step of the way.” 

Building strong relationships is a cornerstone of Dan’s approach. He prioritizes authenticity and collaboration with both clients and subcontractors, taking the time to meet new subcontractors on their turf to understand what matters most to them and what drives their success. This hands-on strategy has allowed Dan to build a network of trusted relationships in the Raleigh market. 

Dan’s passion for leadership extends beyond the job site. He is always looking ahead, working with others to achieve a shared vision, and challenging his team to push themselves. In an industry where there are no handouts, his ultimate goal is to ensure clients are thrilled with the company’s performance. 

Outside of work, Dan enjoys spending time with his family and four grandchildren. His biggest hobby is boating—whether it’s on the Chesapeake Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, Lake Erie, or in Costa Rica, you’ll find him with a fishing rod in hand and a boat beneath him. 

For Dan, the most rewarding part of working at Chesapeake is the company’s openness to change and its commitment to growth. He has witnessed significant positive changes over the past seven years and is eager to see what the future holds. Dan is also proud of Chesapeake’s dedication to developing youth talent, finding it incredibly rewarding to watch interns grow and step into leadership roles. As he puts it, the company’s “can do, never say quit” attitude plays a crucial role in driving that success. 

Through his leadership and unwavering dedication, Dan Hannon continues to contribute to Chesapeake’s vision and success, both in North Carolina and beyond.