Lakewood Ranch construction company names new president

A pair of leaders at Lakewood Ranch-based Tandem Construction have been promoted: Brian Leaver, a principal at the firm since 2005, has been named president, while Kent Hayes, a principal of the firm since 2023, has been named vice president. 

Hayes’ father, Peter Hayes, who founded the company in 1980, will now be chairman of the board, according to a statement, and will remain an active member of the leadership team. 

“This transition in our management team has been carefully planned and is one that has been in process for years,” Peter Hayes says in the release. “Our commitment to excellence, to serving our clients, to being genuine partners, to building quality projects, is the foundation we have laid together, and that which should continue to be the platform for our future achievements.”

Leaver, according to the statement, “will be responsible for all corporate operations, strategic planning and maintaining the high standards of quality workmanship and professional service that have defined Tandem's brand and reputation over its 44-year history.” He’s been with Tandem for 24 years. 

Kent Hayes, meanwhile, has 13 years of local experience, along with a master’s degree in engineering and construction management. He will help oversee the company’s pre-construction department, project management services and client relationships.

"While we have made adjustments in our leadership team, these changes only strengthen and improve our commitment to providing our clients, partners and community with the highest level of construction management services," Leaver says in the release. "These changes are part of our long-term strategy to position Tandem for continued success in a very competitive market."

Tandem works in the public and private sectors across Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte counties, where it specializes in education, government, sports and community projects.