Russell is a professional services firm providing construction and development services across the Midwest. Since its inception in 1983, Russell’s culture promotes a collaborative work environment that strives to exceed our clients’ expectations and provide life-time career opportunities for our professionals.

Headquartered in Davenport, Iowa, with offices in St. Louis, Missouri and Overland Park, Kansas, Russell has delivered more than $7 billion in projects across 34 states. We remain a market leader in our core markets, including new construction and complex additions and renovations.

At Russell, we are creating more than a project - we are building great people, relationships, and communities.

Life at Russell

The number one response we receive when we ask our team members what they like about Russell is the culture. Russell team members describe working here as being more flexible than any place they’ve ever worked. They feel supported and support each other. They have fun. They are empowered to get their work done how they see fit. And most of all, they know they can continue their careers here because of the rich development tools available to them. Life at Russell is full of opportunities.

How You’ll Contribute

As the Director of Field Operations will lead and guide the field leadership team across all office locations, providing direct supervision to General Superintendents. This role ensures that construction projects are executed safely, efficiently, and with the highest level of quality, aligning field operations with company standards and strategic objectives. The Director will drive consistency, collaboration, mentor leadership, and foster a culture of accountability and excellence across all project sites.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership and Guidance

• Oversees and guides field leadership, ensuring alignment with company objectives, policies, and operational standards.
• Provides in-person direct supervision, mentorship, training, and support to General Superintendents in all offices, helping them achieve personal and professional growth.
• Acts as a trusted advisor and resource for field leadership, providing direction on complex issues and fostering a solution-oriented culture.
• Monitors field operations to ensure projects meet or exceed safety, quality, schedule, and budget goals.
• Collaborates with project executives, project managers, and field leadership to address challenges, streamline processes, and ensure consistency across sites.
• Develops and implements best practices to improve field productivity, communication, and overall project outcomes.
• Oversees field resource management and forecasts future field resource needs using resource planning software. Drives accountability for accurate resource reporting from General Superintendents.
• Oversees the hiring process for field leadership team members and provides recruitment direction to Russell’s talent acquisition team.
• Understands Russell’s union affiliations and collective bargaining agreements and participates in union negotiations.

Safety and Compliance

• Champions a culture of safety by enforcing company policies, safety programs, and regulatory compliance at all levels of field operations.
• Regularly reviews safety performance metrics and implements improvements as necessary to maintain a zero-incident goal.

Talent Development and Team Building

• Identifies and develops high-potential leaders within the field team, ensuring a pipeline of capable leadership for future growth.
• Conducts regular performance evaluations, sets clear expectations, and provides feedback and coaching for General Superintendents.
• Fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment that emphasizes teamwork, respect, and shared accountability.

Strategic Alignment and Communication

• Partners with senior management, preconstruction teams, and project managers to align field operations with overall company goals.
• Serves as the primary point of contact between field leadership and executive leadership, ensuring effective communication and alignment.
• Participates in strategic planning sessions and contributes to long-term operational goals.

Educational and experience requirements include a bachelor’s degree in business administration, construction management, or a related field, although equivalent work experience will be considered. A minimum of ten years of experience in an administrative or operational role within the construction or general contracting industry is required, with experience overseeing field operations and General Superintendents highly desirable. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to effectively manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment are essential. Exceptional written and verbal communication skills are necessary, along with proficiency in project management software, Microsoft Office Suite, and document management systems. Advanced understanding of construction scheduling, cost control and the ability to supervise large groups is essential for success in this position. Ability to drive a variety of passenger vehicles to physically monitor active jobsites and personnel. Ability to sit, stand, climb ladders and other physical activities in varied weather conditions is required.