Homebuilder promotes official to CEO, will focus on doubling sales

CLEARWATER — Arthur Rutenberg Homes, a nationwide franchisor of custom homebuilders, has promoted COO Jim Rosewater to CEO of the Clearwater-based firm.

According to a press release, Rosewater’s promotion is part of a strategic succession plan that’s focused on doubling company growth over the next five years. Arthur Rutenberg Homes generated $361.2 million in gross revenue in 2018, down slightly from $368 million in 2017.

Rosewater, the release states, has played a vital role in the company’s evolution since 2008, helping it blossom from an entrepreneur-owned company in a single state with one product line to a growing enterprise operating in 10 states.

“Early in my career as an independent builder, I knew Arthur Rutenberg personally, and always admired his reputation for achieving excellence,” Rosewater states in the release. “Through this appointment I’m truly honored to continue Art’s legacy and further lead the company’s expansion into new markets.”

Barry Rutenberg, chairman of Arthur Rutenberg Homes, praised the move, stating, in the release, “Jim’s previous experience as an independent builder, former Arthur Rutenberg Homes franchisee and company executive gives him the keen ability to understand the unique needs of our franchisees and accelerate our growth. As our incoming CEO he will continue the transformational leadership he began as COO and guide our growth from a predominantly family-led business to becoming the coast-to-coast brand of choice for custom homes.”