Suggestions
Steve Kleehammer
Regional Manager at Cook Brothers Construction Canterbury
Professional Background
Steve Kleehammer is a highly respected and accomplished construction manager with over 27 years of diverse industry experience across several countries, including New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the Middle East. His extensive career has provided him with a deep understanding of the property and construction sectors, making him an invaluable asset to any project. Having held pivotal roles in development, project, site, contract, and financial management, Steve exemplifies a comprehensive grasp of the property and construction processes. His unique skill set allows him to navigate complex projects effectively while ensuring that objectives are consistently met.
Throughout his career, Steve has honed excellent organizational, management, communication, and supervisory skills, enabling him to build and maintain strong relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders. From staff and clients to consultants, contractors, industry authorities, and suppliers, Steve’s ability to relate well to others fosters collaboration and teamwork. By adeptly understanding client objectives and the skillsets of interdisciplinary teams, Steve assembles project teams that develop clear and effective overall plans and objectives. He is known for his proactive approach to identifying risks and opportunities, ensuring project success through thoughtful planning and execution.
Education and Achievements
Steve's educational background is as impressive as his career, having pursued academic excellence at renowned institutions in New Zealand. He holds a Graduate Diploma in Building Management from Victoria University Wellington and a Bachelor of Construction in Construction Management and Quantity Surveying from Massey University – Wellington Campus. Additionally, Steve has attained a NZ Certificate in Building from the NZ Open Polytechnic, highlighting his comprehensive knowledge in the field.
Steve's commitment to continuous professional development ensures that he remains at the forefront of industry standards and practices. He has supplemented his formal education with various professional training programs, demonstrating his dedication to enhancing his skills and knowledge.
Notable Roles and Responsibilities
Over his expansive career, Steve has held numerous influential positions within esteemed organizations, allowing him to shape the construction landscape significantly. Currently serving as the Regional Manager Canterbury at Cook Brothers Construction (CBC), his leadership responsibilities include overseeing various projects, ensuring high standards of delivery, and managing stakeholder relationships effectively.
Before this role, Steve was instrumental as the Preconstruction Manager at Leighs Construction Ltd, where he played a vital role in project initiation and planning phases. As the Domestic Operations Manager at MWH Recovery with Mainzeal Property & Construction Ltd., he successfully managed operations that led to enhanced company efficiency and project execution.
Steve has also excelled as a Development Project Manager at Wallace Development Company Limited, where he showcased his ability to deliver complex developments on time and within budget. His role as Senior Project Manager at Turner & Townsend emphasized his strategic oversight skills, involving coordinating multiple projects and facilitating collaboration between various teams.
Furthermore, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Scope Project Management Ltd, where he served as Managing Director/Principal, demonstrating his capacity for leadership and innovation within the construction management realm. Steve’s experience as a Project & Commercial Manager and Estimator at Gemco Construction Ltd has equipped him with financial acumen and a keen eye for detail, ensuring profitable project outcomes.
Earlier in his career, he gained valuable on-the-ground experience as a Senior Site Manager at Berkeley Group Holdings Plc and a Project Manager & Quantity Surveyor at Mainzeal Property & Construction Ltd. Steve’s journey began as a Construction Management Cadet at Mackersey Construction Limited, and subsequent roles saw him rise to a Site Foreman, showcasing his commitment to career development.
Key Strengths
Steve’s strengths are a cornerstone of his professional success, with a focus on establishing and maintaining professional relationships with various project stakeholders. His ability to navigate the complexities of project management results in increased project profitability achieved through innovative design, strategic buildability, commercial savvy, and exceptional negotiation skills.
With a solid foundation in programme, technical, contractual, and financial aspects of construction management, Steve leads his teams to not only meet but exceed expectations. His emphasis on empowering staff and maintaining their motivation contributes to high levels of job satisfaction, career development, and ultimately, optimal performance across all projects.
Conclusion
In summary, Steve Kleehammer stands out as a seasoned construction manager with an unparalleled breadth of experience, substantial educational credentials, and a track record of successful project delivery. His strategic approach to construction management focuses on collaboration, innovation, and relationship-building, which are vital in today's fast-paced and ever-changing construction industry. As he continues to pave the way for future industry professionals, Steve remains a formidable presence in construction management, inspiring those around him to strive for excellence in every endeavor.
