Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Affiliations
Timeline
Generic

Grady F. Watkins

Capital Projects Manager
Ocean Isle Beach,NC

Summary

Professional Capital Projects Manager with a proven track record at Brunswick County School District, adept at multi-tasking projects. Skilled in CAD/Blueprint generation and fostering team collaboration, I have successfully managed high-priority projects, ensuring compliance and quality while enhancing operational efficiency. I pride myself in monitoring projects by adhering to schedules and budgets, managing teams, identifying problems and providing targeted solutions. I am dedicated problem solver that understands all aspects of Brunswick County School system.

Overview

25
25
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications

Work History

Capital Projects Manager

Brunswick County School District
Bolivia, North Carolina
02.2018 - Current
  • Annually develop capital outlay budget of $2.8 Million for operations; work closely with principals and other stake holders to develop annual needs and budget line items
  • Oversee construction projects for school system; work closely with permitting, fire marshall, officials that may have oversight in county school projects, along with clientele of school staff, parents and board of education
  • Currently working on development of future master plans with other members of staff for school district operations
  • Implement risk management plans to mitigate potential issues, ensuring smooth project execution.
  • Successfully complete multiple high-priority projects simultaneously under tight deadlines while maintaining a high level of quality control.
  • Enhanced team collaboration through regular meetings, progress updates, and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Cultivate a positive work environment that fostered teamwork, innovation, and creative problem-solving among team members.
  • Manage cross-functional trades for successful project completion within budget and on schedule.
  • Facilitate seamless transitions between project phases by coordinating closely with various departments involved in the process flow.
  • Maintain an open communication line between all parties
  • Develop strong relationships with vendors, negotiating contracts to support cost-effective solutions.
  • Ensure regulatory compliance by adhering to industry standards and guidelines during all stages of the project lifecycle.
  • Met project deadlines without sacrificing build quality or workplace safety.
  • Planned, designed, and scheduled phases for small, medium and large projects.
  • Provide detailed technical and operational direction in project challenges, consistently meeting deliverables according to deadlines.
  • Identify plans and resources required to meet project goals and objectives.
  • Provide detailed project status updates to stakeholders and management team/board of education.
  • Monitor project performance to identify areas of improvement and make adjustments.
  • Schedule and facilitate meetings between project stakeholders to discuss deliverables, schedules and conflicts.
  • Report regularly to managers on project budget, progress, and technical problems.
  • Track project and team member performance closely to quickly intervene in mistakes or delays.
  • Source, vet and manage vendors needed to accomplish project goals successfully.
  • Streamline change order management through effective communication and internal teams, minimizing project delays and budget overruns.
  • Reduced construction errors by conducting comprehensive design reviews and incorporating feedback from team members.
  • Delivered timely and accurate project documentation for successful completion of large-
  • Conduct critical pre-installation conferences with general contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and manufacturer's representatives.
  • Obtained building and specialty permits from local jurisdictional agencies.
  • Use computer software to design construction plans and perform calculations as needed.
  • Oversee effective disposal of construction waste and implemented programs to increase use of recycled materials.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Manage time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to situations.
  • Work well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Used strong analytical and problem-solving skills to develop effective solutions for challenging situations.
  • Participate in team projects, demonstrating an ability to work collaboratively and effectively, i.e., Currently serve as Brunswick County Schools logistics team lead for re-unification situations.

Co-Owner/General Manager

Twin Lakes by The Sea/The Filling Station
Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
01.2015 - 12.2017
  • Remodeled both locations from ground up; built bar, outside deck and completely remodeled interior of two older structures.
  • Managed day-to-day operations efficiently, ensuring smooth workflow and timely completion of tasks..
  • Managed 40+ employees between both locations
  • Oversaw financial management tasks, including budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow optimization.
  • Collaborated with co-owner on strategic planning initiatives for long-term business success.
  • Enhanced business operations by implementing efficient management strategies and streamlining processes.
  • Managed financial aspects of the business including budgeting, forecasting, cash flow management, and financial reporting to stakeholders.
  • Sourced vendors, negotiated contracts, and managed efficient deliveries of high-quality supplies.
  • Ensured compliance with all federal, state, and local regulatory requirements regarding employment practices and food safety standards.
  • Implemented high-quality food safety protocols to ensure the health and well-being of patrons and maintain compliance with regulations.
  • Developed strong relationships with vendors to secure favorable pricing agreements, ensuring timely deliveries of quality products.
  • Streamlined operations by developing and implementing effective workflow systems, optimizing staff scheduling, and minimizing waste.
  • Expanded catering services for private events resulting in increased revenue streams from off-site offerings.
  • Collaborated with local community organizations on various initiatives to boost brand visibility while giving back to the community.
  • Boosted revenue through targeted marketing campaigns, special events, and promotions.
  • Negotiated favorable lease terms for the restaurant location resulting in reduced overhead costs and increased profitability.
  • Set employee schedules, delegated work, and monitored food quality and service performance.
  • Led restructuring of restaurant menu and interior design, resulting in increased customer satisfaction and profits.

Real Estate Broker

Cooke Realty
Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina
03.2013 - 11.2014
  • Analyzed local real estate market conditions and trends to identify profitable investment opportunities.
  • Cultivated lasting relationships with past clients through consistent follow-up contact to support their ongoing real estate needs or concerns.
  • Assisted clients in navigating the complexities of financing options, ensuring they secured suitable mortgage products for their needs.
  • Negotiated purchase contracts and lease agreements to establish maximum value for clients.
  • Cultivated a professional reputation through active participation in industry organizations, attending conferences, workshops, and continuing education courses relevant to real estate practices.
  • Managed multiple listing services memberships and kept abreast of changes in rules, regulations, and industry standards to maintain compliance.
  • Coordinated with property management teams to streamline rental processes for clients seeking temporary accommodations or investment opportunities.

Broker In Charge - Real Estate

Realty World
01.2011 - 03.2013
  • Expanded service offerings to better address clients'' diverse needs, strengthening long-term partnerships.
  • Mentored junior brokers, fostering a supportive learning environment that contributed to their professional growth.
  • Collaborated effectively with cross-functional teams such as legal, compliance, research analysts to ensure seamless transaction execution for clients.
  • Implemented innovative sales techniques that consistently exceeded performance metrics and revenue targets.
  • Developed strong industry connections by actively participating in conferences, seminars, and other networking events.
  • Built trust among prospective clients through transparent communication practices about fees structure and services provided.
  • Improved productivity with regular training sessions to enhance brokers'' skills in sales, negotiation, and market analysis.
  • Closed high-value deals through effective negotiation tactics and in-depth knowledge of market trends.
  • Generated new business opportunities through networking, referrals, and targeted marketing initiatives.
  • Completed training programs to remain updated and further develop proficiency of important industry information.
  • Prepared contracts and related documentation according to strict standards.
  • Evaluated properties for potential salability and pricing.
  • Helped clients navigate transactions, complete paperwork and finalize sales or purchases.
  • Negotiated real estate contracts to navigate transactions between buyers and sellers.
  • Worked closely with clients to facilitate appropriate loans, inspections, and credit reports.
  • Advocated for client needs and obtained desired considerations for sales and purchases.
  • Oversaw property management of 75 properties.

Licensed General Contractor & Owner

Brunswick Building & Design Group, Inc.
01.2002 - 10.2010
  • New commercial & residential construction
  • Designed high quality, robust and cost-effective CAD product models by preparing routine layouts, detailed drawings, assembly sketches and diagrams.
  • Liaised with architects, engineers and designers to understand design requirements and provided technical advice along with acquiring proper engineered stamped drawings needed.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and advancements in CAD software applications to ensure alignment with best practices and ongoing professional growth.
  • Mitigated risk exposure during construction projects through careful planning, proactive problem-solving strategies alongside detailed documentation of all completed tasks.
  • Identified opportunities for growth in the business by actively pursuing new projects, developing proposals, and expanding professional networks. Served as President of Brunswick County Realtor Association. Developed & designed the Stone Chimney facility for Brunswick County Association of Realtors.
  • Provided exceptional customer service addressing any concerns from clients promptly resulting in repeat business opportunities over time.
  • Reviewed contract documents for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with industry best practices before finalizing agreements to minimize disputes between parties involved in the projects.
  • Obtained necessary permits and approvals for construction projects by working closely with local government agencies and departments.
  • Oversaw subcontractors'' performance ensuring work was executed according to design specifications while maintaining strict adherence to timelines set within the project scope.
  • Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, building codes, regulations, best practices by regularly attending seminars or conferences related to general contracting in North Carolina.
  • Collaborated with clients to develop custom solutions based on their specific requirements while balancing budgetary constraints.
  • Managed large-scale construction projects within cost, quality and time constraints,
  • Kept site work safe and in line with budget, schedule, and applicable building codes.
  • Reviewed contractor invoices, approving payments on acceptable work.
  • Developed construction plans, schedules and budgets to achieve stakeholder objectives.
  • Hired and oversaw subcontractors to meet project needs.
  • Collaborated with architects and subcontractors to devise cost-effective construction solutions.
  • Analyzed building plans and prepared bids to deliver timely, cost-effective project completion.
  • Resolved conflicts between contractors, suppliers and subcontractors to eliminate workflow disruptions.
  • Coordinated with site personnel, clients and local government officials to achieve on-time project delivery.
  • Managed day-to-day business operations.
  • Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
  • Evaluated industry competition regularly to maintain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
  • Led negotiations for major contracts, securing favorable terms that significantly reduced costs.
  • Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
  • Cultivated and strengthened lasting client relationships using strong issue resolution and dynamic communication skills.
  • Reduced operational risks while organizing data to forecast performance trends.
  • Implemented business strategies, increasing revenue, and effectively targeting new markets.
  • Contributed to innovative product developments by utilizing advanced 3D modeling techniques and cutting-edge CAD tools.

Mortgage Broker & Owner

First Brunswick Mortgage
01.2000 - 10.2010
  • Provided ongoing support for past clients to maintain strong relationships and encourage referrals for future business opportunities.
  • Proactively identified potential obstacles within loan applications, taking corrective measures early on to minimize delays or complications during processing stages.
  • Collaborated with lenders to secure competitive interest rates and terms, resulting in more affordable home financing options.
  • Ensured exceptional customer service by maintaining consistent communication throughout the entire loan origination process.
  • Managed loan pipelines efficiently, promptly addressing any issues or concerns that arose during the mortgage process.
  • Implemented efficient documentation practices that expedited processing times while ensuring compliance with industry regulations.
  • Assisted clients in understanding complex mortgage terms and conditions, empowering them to make informed decisions about their home financing options.
  • Mentored junior team members by sharing best practices and expertise acquired over years of experience in the field of mortgage brokerage services.
  • Streamlined the loan application process for faster approvals and increased customer retention.
  • Maintained a strong network of industry professionals, fostering valuable partnerships that benefited clients and business growth.
  • Demonstrated excellent negotiation skills when working with underwriters to obtain favorable loan terms for borrowers in challenging situations.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring all tasks were completed accurately and efficiently by team members.
  • Established foundational processes for business operations.

Education

Business Administration And Management - Studied

East Carolina University
Greenville, NC

Diploma - Construction Management

NC State University
Raleigh, NC
05.2001 -

Diploma - NC Leadership Program

NC Association of Realtors
Greensboro, United States
05.2001 -

Skills

Advanced Understanding of Brunswick County Schools current needs and future needs

Excellent Communicator

Multi-tasking projects

Meeting facilitation

Project management

Coaching and mentoring

CAD/Blueprint Generation

Team Player

Thorough understanding of land acquisition & process

Certification

Licensed General Contractor

Affiliations

NC School Plant Managers Association - Advisory Board (Currently Serving)


Brunswick County Association of Realtors - President, Vice-President, Board of Directors, Political Action Committee Chairperson


NC Association of Realtors - RPAC Chairperson, Legislative Committee Chairperson, Executive Committee, Home Owners Alliance Committee, Strategic Planning Committee


Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce - Executive Committee Chairperson (2 years)



Timeline

Capital Projects Manager

Brunswick County School District
02.2018 - Current

Co-Owner/General Manager

Twin Lakes by The Sea/The Filling Station
01.2015 - 12.2017

Real Estate Broker

Cooke Realty
03.2013 - 11.2014

Broker In Charge - Real Estate

Realty World
01.2011 - 03.2013

Licensed General Contractor & Owner

Brunswick Building & Design Group, Inc.
01.2002 - 10.2010

Diploma - Construction Management

NC State University
05.2001 -

Diploma - NC Leadership Program

NC Association of Realtors
05.2001 -

Graduate of Realtor Institute

03-2000

Mortgage Broker & Owner

First Brunswick Mortgage
01.2000 - 10.2010

Licensed Real Estate Broker

05-1990

Licensed General Contractor

03-1986

Business Administration And Management - Studied

East Carolina University

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Grady F. WatkinsCapital Projects Manager