The Highland Group, a leading general contractor and real estate development firm serving the Southeastern United States since 2005, has announced the appointment of Craig Blackburn as vice president of operations.
This new position, an outcome of the company’s expansion and growth, will oversee the operations of all three regional offices — the corporate headquarters on the Alabama Gulf Coast, the Northwest Florida office and the North Alabama office in the Tennessee Valley. The position will also serve on the company’s senior leadership team, which is charged with establishing and executing the overall strategy of the company, collectively guiding it towards long term success.
In his new role as vice president of operations, Blackburn will be responsible for overseeing and optimizing the company’s operational activities, ensuring the highest standards of efficiency, quality and safety. This strategic focus on operations will enhance customer service and drive sustainable growth, while simultaneously streamlining processes and effectively managing risks for the company.
Blackburn joined The Highland Group as a senior project manager for the Alabama Gulf Coast Region in April 2023. With more than 27 years of experience in the commercial construction industry, Blackburn has a proven track record of success, having held roles of executive oversight in various market sectors bringing a wealth of experience to this key leadership position.
Prior to his tenure at The Highland Group, Blackburn served as a vice president for a national commercial construction firm, where he provided executive oversight to project teams across the United States. His extensive expertise in commercial construction projects includes retail, hospitality, medical, multifamily, industrial and other specialty projects with a combined value of over $1 billion.
“This role is crucial for advancing our company’s initiatives, fueling our growth and providing operational support to our project teams and clients, ” said Scott Shamburger, president and CEO of The Highland Group. “Craig has been a great fit in our company culture, he embodies our core values and is committed to supporting our project teams as they continue to build The Highland Group across the Southeastern U.S.”
Blackburn, an Auburn University alumnus, holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Building Construction and serves as a member of the Auburn University Industry Advisory Council.
In his previous role as senior project manager with The Highland Group, Blackburn was instrumental in directing construction operations throughout the Alabama Gulf Coast Region. His commitment to delivering outstanding operations and maintaining high-quality standards has significantly contributed to the success of projects across various markets.
“I am honored to accept this role and excited about the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of The Highland Group,” said Blackburn. “I look forward to working with our talented team and supporting them as we work to continue delivering high quality projects to our clients.”