Following an extensive nationwide search of both internal and external candidates, we are delighted to announce the appointment of James “Jim” Smith to the position of President of Vanir.
Jim will take over for Steve Whitehead, who served as Vanir’s President from January 2019 until his retirement late last month. As President, Jim will be responsible for setting the company’s strategic direction, ensuring successful project delivery and client satisfaction, driving profitable growth and fostering a diverse work environment. He will also be responsible for ensuring the company meets its annual and long-term business objectives and adheres to its mission, policies and procedures.
“I am honored to step into the role of President and look forward to working with Dorene, the many members of our corporate and area leadership teams and all of our incredible employees to drive client satisfaction and ensure project success,” Jim, who has served as Vanir’s Vice President and Central States Area Manager since 2019, said. “I intend to build on the amazing progress Dorene and Steve have made by crafting unique solutions that enhance the Vanir brand and deliver tangible results companywide.”
Jim has more than 30 years of leadership experience in the construction management industry and has developed a reputation for delivering innovative engineering; environmental; program, project and construction management; and design-build services to clients in the education, energy, healthcare, justice and essential services, state and local government, technology, transportation and water sectors.
Jim has held a number of key leadership roles within the industry, including Senior Vice President, Global Operations Manager, Division Manager, Practice Leader and Program Director at Parsons Corporation and Program and Project Manager for Facility Design Group.
“Jim has a unique ability to blend his leadership style, technical expertise and business savvy to build, grow and lead teams that make good on Vanir’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality, client-focused services for the many companies and communities we serve,” said Dorene C. Dominguez, Chairman and CEO of Vanir. “He has played an integral role in Vanir’s success over the past three years, and I am delighted to have a leader of his caliber and experience at the helm. Together, Jim and I will lead Vanir into the next chapter of its development.”
Jim holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Construction Management from Southern Polytechnic State University and is licensed by the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies. He is also a proud member of the Construction Management Association of America.