Ken Braswell

Meet Ken Braswell – Business Development, Southeast Region and November’s Hard Hat Hang Up.

How did you get into the construction industry?  

I grew up in the home of a builder and was on job sites as early as 6 years old, sometimes a lot more often than I wanted to be. However, this gave me the opportunity to learn everything from the bottom (dirt) up to the roof and of course I had to wait my turn to become old enough and skilled enough to do more than just the manual labor items. As a young adult I spent time away from the industry for nine years until coming back to a construction related role as an owner of an architecture firm for 28 years. Now in my later years, I have come back full circle to the construction industry with Chesapeake and very excited about the opportunities.

What do you enjoy most about Chesapeake?

First and foremost, it would be the people as they are friendly and always positive. I would also say that Chesapeake is full of top-quality people providing wonderful craftsmanship and strong professional commitment to the variety of clients, projects, and people. Still being fairly new to CCG, I am very excited to see what the future holds and how this well-developed construction company can continue to carve out its position in the NC market as well as the existing MD and VA region. Just scratching the surface of opportunities that await Chesapeake.

What are some key lessons you’ve learned in construction/BD that have shaped your current approach?

The first is to keep a humble approach to understand that there are General Contractors along with professionals like Architects and Engineers around every corner. We must look at what separates our company from the rest by focusing on relationships and protecting our reputation as it takes years to build them but only a few moments to destroy or greatly tarnish them. Everyone must take responsibility to build the business that they are involved in and that provides them with a living wage. This is business development (BD) that we are involved in by promoting our company with enthusiasm as we look at opportunities and ways to connect our company with those in the community. As for me being in the Business Development role at Chesapeake, I thoroughly believe that I need and enjoy connecting the community with CCG through building relationships, promoting (communicating) the brand with both new and existing clients. Always excited about the next meet and greet opportunity, so let’s keep them coming!

You work out of our North Carolina office, how do you stay informed about industry trends and shifts that impact construction in the Raleigh Area?

Reading up in local published journals such as the Triangle Business Journal, LinkedIn posts while going to industry events with BizNow, ULI, NAIOP and ABC group activities. The other very important area is to stay in front of some of the industry leaders and company owners that have been in the industry and region for decades. I would also be remiss if I did not give a shout out that we must stay in front of Architects as they see and work on the front line of designs and requirements of industry trends. STAY IN TUNE and INFORMED.

What is your understanding of the market landscape in this region (specific to where the company operates)?

The Raleigh Durham (RTP) area of NC along with the Triad Region (Greensboro-Winston Salem) continues to be in the top ten in the US for best places to live, best job markets, and wonderful place to start and operate a business. The economy has been a bit sluggish this year in several areas, but there seems to be a lot of pent-up demand just waiting to get past this election cycle before being released. Note that this area has been insulated from the rest of the country during a lot of economic cycles and is one that I would be very bullish to invest in for many years to come.

What do you enjoy doing when you’re not at work?

My work and connecting with people seem to weave into my everyday fabric. I enjoy spending time with family, friends and church members plus going on walks or bike rides with my wife of 34 plus years. I also enjoy serving in my local community and ministry while looking for ways to make a difference and have positive impact on others. Of course, if I can sneak in a round of golf, travel abroad, or have a fine meal with friends that always brings about perfect peace for the soul.