GH Phipps Announces New Chief Financial Officer Peter Speiser Named Chief Financial Officer
GH Phipps Construction Companies announced that Peter Speiser has joined the company as chief financial officer, effective April 29, 2024. Mr. Speiser brings more than 25 years of progressive experience in financial planning and analysis, leading financial initiatives, and administering corporate-wide policies and business goals in a variety of industries, including 17 years in the A/E/C industry. Prior positions include Chief Operating Officer at Olson Plumbing and Heating Company and Chief Financial Officer at GE Johnson Construction Company. He is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado and a Master of Business Administration and Finance from Regis University.
Dedicated to giving back to the community, Mr. Speiser currently serves on the 5Star Bank Board of Directors, Monfort College of Business Dean’s Advisory Committee, Springs Rescue Mission Board of Directors, and Accounting Advisory Board at Regis University. Additional philanthropic endeavors include Pikes Peak YMCA and Catholic Charities of Southern Colorado.
At GH Phipps, Mr. Speiser will be a key thought partner to the Company’s president and executive leadership team and oversee the daily operation of accounting, financial, human resources, and Information Technology functions. Additionally, he will manage the company’s investments and securities, insurance coverage, liquid assets, and portfolio while assisting in the creation and implementation of GH Phipps’ strategic plan.
“Peter is a greatly talented executive with a proven track record for effectively managing the financial interests of several reputable companies within the construction industry,” said GH Phipps President, Todd Ruff. “His critical understanding of what it takes to drive progress and operational excellence will be essential in GH Phipps’ continued growth and ability to deliver on our mission of enriching the lives of our employees, clients, and communities.”
Brinkman Construction Strengthens Denver Presence with Addition of New Leadership
Brinkman Construction announced the addition of Eric Kesti as vice president and general manager of its Denver office. With a career spanning 28 years in the construction industry, Eric brings a wealth of experience and existing relationships that will significantly bolster Brinkman Construction’s presence throughout the Denver Metro area. In his new role, Eric will lead commercial business development strategies while executing on the long-term vision and growing the company’s Denver employee base and community engagement.
Jim Ciesla, president & CEO of Brinkman Construction, shared his thoughts on the appointment: “Eric’s extensive background and leadership skills provide an invaluable addition to our team. We are thrilled to have him join Brinkman Construction, where his expertise will help us expand our commercial construction services throughout the Front Range.”
Kesti expressed his enthusiasm about joining the team: “I am looking forward to contributing to the growth of our presence in the Denver Metro area. The opportunity to build a new future with such a dedicated and passionate team is incredibly exciting.”
Eric most recently served as the Special Projects Division Manager for Turner Construction Company. He has also served in leadership roles for Kiewit Building Group. He is actively involved in the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation, and serves on the Metro Denver EDC Executive Committee, MDEDC Board of Governors and Colorado Space Coalition.
Eric’s arrival marks a significant step in Brinkman Construction’s commitment to growing its presence in the Denver area. His exceptional leadership and team management will pave the way for new positions within the company, further enhancing the company’s ability to deliver elevated construction solutions to clients.
Laramar Group Promotes Scott Kessel to Chief Financial Officer
Laramar Group, a leading national real estate investment firm, announced the promotion of Scott Kessel to chief financial officer. Kessel previously was vice president of asset management, overseeing asset management decisions for the company’s extensive portfolio of multifamily and medical real estate assets. He also led the company’s Financial Performance & Analysis department.
As Chief Financial Officer, Kessel now directs Laramar’s overall accounting decisions across individual properties and corporate level finances. He also oversees decisions on budgeting, forecasting, analysis, cash management, and accounts payable.
“Scott has made an incredible impact on the Laramar business with his analytical mindset, positive and professional demeanor, and strong work ethic,” said Jeff Elowe, CEO of Laramar. “He was an integral part of creating the company’s truly dedicated Asset Management function and is a key resource helping to shape the financial direction of the company.”
In his previous position, Kessel was responsible for the development and execution of business plans, the analysis of portfolio performance, reporting, and providing support and direction to the operations teams. Over the past several years, he has helped build out the Asset Management department to include the property budgeting and forecasting process; all financial and operational reporting; cash management; property valuations; and debt tracking.
Kessel joined the company in 2016 as a director of asset management and was promoted to assistant vice president of asset management in 2019.
Prior to joining Laramar, he managed the Acquisition/Financial Planning & Analysis team with W.J. Bradley Mortgage Capital, a large non-bank residential mortgage firm. He oversaw the management of short- and long-term financial planning, cash forecasting, cost analysis, and financial reporting.
Kessel received a B.S. degree in Finance from the Fisher School of Business at The Ohio State University.
