SmithGroup Hires New Higher Education Studio Leader in Denver
Bradley Lockwood has joined SmithGroup as the Higher Education studio leader in its Denver office. Lockwood is a seasoned senior executive and architect, drawing upon nearly 20 years of experience in the higher education sector and most recently serving as vice president and managing principal, Higher Education, at Moseley.
Lockwood’s core strength lies in strategic relationship-building and network expansion. He has developed deep networks with clients, consultants, design specialists, and contractors, leading to a strong market presence for clients in higher education. In his previous roles, he successfully led market expansion into higher education for firms with limited or no existing presence in the sector.
By leveraging program expertise and experience, Brad excels at assembling the right team and resources, aligning them with each client’s unique definition of success. He builds highly responsive teams attuned to mission-specific challenges and crafts innovative solutions that advance client goals.
In his new role, Lockwood will lead Denver’s Higher Education studio to drive growth, build expertise and support holistic design. He is adept at building and maintaining client partnerships and will play an integral role in developing and nurturing key higher education relationships for SmithGroup’s award-winning higher education market.
“Bradley’s commitment to advancing education through design and his ability to develop forward-looking planning for institutions of higher learning will be invaluable,” said Chris Purdy, director of Higher Education at SmithGroup. “We look forward to the exceptional contributions he will make to our higher education portfolio and partnerships.”
Lockwood specializes in business development, client relations, market analysis, project oversight, design-build expertise, construction administration and team building and development. His experience in these areas includes successful project outcomes with University of North Carolina at Wilmington, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State, Colorado State University, Colorado College, Adams State University, University of Wyoming and various community college campuses across the country.
“Bradley understands our market and has a strong foothold on the national landscape, which will greatly benefit our client partnerships in the Denver and Intermountain region,” said Brad Woodman, SmithGroup’s Southwest region director. “His proven ability to lead large-scale projects, develop new market sectors, and manage high-value construction projects will undoubtedly elevate our growing team and enhance our presence in Denver’s flourishing higher education market.”
Lockwood graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture from Virginia Tech and holds a Master of Business Administration from Old Dominion University. He is a licensed architect, a LEED accredited professional and involved with AIA, DBIA and SCUP. Notably, Brad is a recipient of the 2019 Building Design + Construction 40 Under 40 award and the 2021 Engineering News-Record Magazine National 20 Under 40 award.
Mitch Kelln Joins BMC Investments’ Investor Relations Team
BMC Investments (“BMC”), a Denver-based vertically integrated real estate firm, announced the addition of Mitch Kelln as an associate on the Investor Relations team.
In this role, Kelln will be responsible for strengthening investor engagement, supporting fundraising activities and helping execute a consistent investor communications strategy across BMC’s real estate portfolio, which includes six projects currently under construction in the Denver metro area as well as four recent acquisitions in BMC’s Multifamily Value Add Fund I.
“Mitch is a valuable addition to our investor relations team,” said Erin Little, partner and chief financial officer at BMC Investments. “His diverse marketing background, attention to detail and client-focused approach will enhance the way we connect with our clients and internal teams.”
Before joining BMC, Kelln worked as a real estate adviser focused on residential sales and new development. He led marketing efforts and advised clients through complex transactions, combining strategic insight with high-touch service. Kelln is actively involved in the Denver community through the Denver’s Children Foundation, where he serves as an event chair for one of its flagship initiatives.
“I am thrilled to join the BMC team and contribute to the firm’s investor communications and fundraising efforts,” said Kelln. “It’s great to be part of a growing firm with a dynamic portfolio.”
Kelln’s appointment follows the recent hiring of Kristen Link as vice president, development, and BMC’s groundbreaking on Cherry Lane – the largest redevelopment project in Cherry Creek North.
Howell Construction Promotes Chris Bernhardy to Preconstruction Manager
Howell Construction announced the promotion of Chris Bernhardy to the position of preconstruction manager. This advancement reflects the company’s continued commitment to recognizing and rewarding exceptional talent and leadership.
Bernhardy joined Howell Construction in 2022 as an estimator and has since played an integral role in the success of numerous projects. With a strong background in cost analysis, risk assessment, and strategic planning, he has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of project development and client needs.
“Chris has continually shown initiative, leadership, and a results-driven approach to every project,” said Todd Berry, vice president at Howell Construction. “His promotion to preconstruction manager is a testament to the value he brings to our team and the trust they’ve earned across departments and clients alike.”
As Preconstruction Manager, Bernhardy will oversee project specific preconstruction activities, including budgeting, scheduling, team coordination, and client collaboration during the planning and design phases. He will work closely with internal teams and external partners to ensure a seamless transition from project conception to construction start.
“Construction sets the tone for a successful project,” said Bernhardy. “I’m excited to guide our preconstruction efforts with a sharp focus on early alignment, transparency, and delivering solutions that position our clients and partners for success.”
This promotion marks a key step in Howell’s strategic development, reinforcing its dedication to delivering excellence through empowered leadership and expert project planning.
Peregrine Hospitality Appoints Jeff Knowlton as Chief Information Officer
Peregrine Hospitality, a full-service hospitality company known for its precision, agility, and ownership mindset in managing world-class resorts and hotels, announced that Jeff Knowlton has joined the firm as chief information officer (CIO), a newly created position.
“Having Jeff join Peregrine Hospitality as a member of our executive leadership team comes at a pivotal time in the firm’s growth,” said Greg Kennealey, CEO of Peregrine Hospitality. “As we intentionally build a high-performing, talent-driven organization, Jeff’s innovative approach to technology and collaborative leadership style will play a key role in equipping our people with the tools they need to deliver exceptional hospitality and guest experience across our portfolio.”
With over 25 years of experience in hospitality technology, Knowlton joins Peregrine from Sonesta International Hotels Corporation, where he served as CIO and spearheaded comprehensive technology transformation initiatives. His extensive background includes building and leading IT teams, notably as vice president of information technology at Pursuit Collection and vice president of property technology at Sage Hospitality. Knowlton’s career also encompasses technology leadership positions at Vail Resorts and Marcus Hotels & Resorts. He is a graduate of Johnson State College, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in hospitality administration.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to join Peregrine Hospitality, especially at this stage of its continued expansion,” said Knowlton. “The oversight and evolution of our technology platform across a broadening hospitality portfolio of leisure resorts, boutique and select service hotels will allow all stakeholders, from property managers to the IT team, to transform the guest experience through innovation and operational excellence.”
