Keller is the world leader in geotechnical construction and deep foundations. With a North American presence of over 100 years, we operate as the market leader with over 50 offices throughout the US and Canada. By connecting global resources and local experience, Keller develops innovative, practical, and cost-effective solutions to geotechnical challenges. Our values of integrity, collaboration, and excellence enable us to lead the industry in providing the optimal solution for our clients.

We are seeking a confident, safety-oriented Area Manager with good commercial instincts to complement our team in the Baton Rouge or New Orleans, Lousiana  area.

Business Development & Proposal Management

• Leads the area team in alignment with the strategic objectives outlined in the Branch Business Plan.
• Develops and maintains market intelligence to support long-term business strategy and growth within the area.
• Prepares and recommends annual area budgets, including revenue and margin targets.
• Maintains working knowledge of all company policies and ensures compliance with applicable procedures, including safety, quality, travel, and drug testing requirements.
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with key customer decision-makers and industry stakeholders.
• Supports, monitors, and evaluates business development activities across the area.
• Coordinates and delegates incoming opportunities, inquiries, and leads to Branch Estimators and Project Managers.
• Oversees proposal strategy, including risk evaluation, pricing, and closing approach. Provides direct support throughout the sales and proposal process and may serve as bid leader on select opportunities.

People Leadership & Management

• Provides leadership, coaching, direction, and performance support to direct reports to maximize individual and team effectiveness.
• Ensures managers within the area of responsibility provide consistent leadership and employee development to their teams.
• Addresses employee concerns and workplace issues in a timely and professional manner.
• Supports talent development through career planning, promotions, lateral moves, performance improvement initiatives, and corrective action, as appropriate.
• Promotes accountability and alignment with company values, expectations, and performance standards.

Safety & Quality Assurance

• Ensures compliance with all company safety policies and applicable OSHA regulations.
• Partners with Safety personnel to support employees and project teams in the event of safety incidents, in accordance with company policy.
• Ensures work is performed in accordance with contractual quality standards and project specifications.
• Identifies and documents quality nonconformance issues and escalates for timely resolution.
• Exercises stop-work authority when safety or quality concerns are identified.

Risk Management

• Maintains a strong understanding of company risk management policies and procedures.
• Identifies operational, contractual, and financial risks and implements appropriate mitigation strategies to protect company interests.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in geotechnical construction, heavy civil construction, or a related industry preferred.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant business software applications.
• Demonstrated leadership, business development, and strategic planning capabilities.