Robert Harris JH Kelly
Robert Harris is the Executive Vice President of Business Development at JH Kelly, a prominent MEP and specialty industrial contractor in the Pacific Northwest. Operating from Longview, Washington, the company boasts a workforce exceeding 1,200 employees and regularly reports more than $500 million in annual revenues. With an impressive career that spans over 35 years in the construction industry, he masterfully directs the company's strategic initiatives in sales, marketing, and business development while managing a team of 12 professionals across various operational sectors.
The Journey from Canada to the Pacific Northwest
Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1966, he moved to the United States in 1975, following his father, who accepted a position with Wright Schuchart Engineering in Seattle, Washington. This relocation was pivotal, as it marked the beginning of his lifelong engagement with the engineering and construction industries, inspired by his father's professional path.
On the Ice from an Early Age
His passion for sports was evident early on. He played hockey extensively, participated in the United States Hockey League and Junior A, and briefly played at Iowa State University. Although not long-lasting at Iowa State, his athletic pursuits fostered a strong sense of discipline and competition. He later pursued higher education at Seattle University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Finance and Humanities.
From University to His First Job
Upon graduation, he embarked on his professional journey as an auditor for a pension fund, a role where he met his wife, Marnie. However, his true passion lay in construction, prompting him to transition to a project engineer position at Sverdrup Engineering. Here, he was instrumental in the expansion project of Concourse D at SeaTac airport, a significant stepping stone in his career.
His Career Path with JH Kelly
Robert began his tenure at JH Kelly as a Field Engineer in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Over the years, he excelled in managing numerous large-scale projects and eventually climbed the corporate ladder to business development manager. His profound impact in this role led to his promotion to Director of Marketing and Business Development.
Seeking further professional growth, in 1999, he took on a leadership role with a service contractor in San Diego, refining his skills in overseeing large sales teams. Four years later, he returned to JH Kelly as Vice President, reinvigorated and equipped with new insights and strategies to advance the company's objectives.
Robert Harris Selected to Head Newly Acquired Company for JH Kelly
In 2018, JH Kelly acquired Portland Mechanical Contractors, and he was selected to manage the integration of this new company. His effective leadership ensured a smooth transition and helped align the newly acquired company with JH Kelly's strategic goals.
The Personal Side of Robert Harris
Beyond his professional life, he is a devoted husband and father, married for 33 years, and a parent to three children. He and his wife relish the opportunity to travel, enjoying the rich tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and architecture worldwide. Their travels have brought them closer and enriched their family's life with unique experiences and perspectives. He also maintains his passion for hockey, playing in an over-35 league in McMinnville, Oregon, and has a broad interest in music and sports.
He also remains actively involved in the community, serving on the Cowlitz Economic Development Council and several other influential boards. His involvement underscores his commitment to contributing to his professional field and community.
Rob Harris exemplifies a blend of professional dedication, personal fulfillment, and community involvement, making him a respected leader and an admired figure in his community and beyond.
The Journey from Canada to the Pacific Northwest
Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1966, he moved to the United States in 1975, following his father, who accepted a position with Wright Schuchart Engineering in Seattle, Washington. This relocation was pivotal, as it marked the beginning of his lifelong engagement with the engineering and construction industries, inspired by his father's professional path.
On the Ice from an Early Age
His passion for sports was evident early on. He played hockey extensively, participated in the United States Hockey League and Junior A, and briefly played at Iowa State University. Although not long-lasting at Iowa State, his athletic pursuits fostered a strong sense of discipline and competition. He later pursued higher education at Seattle University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in Finance and Humanities.
From University to His First Job
Upon graduation, he embarked on his professional journey as an auditor for a pension fund, a role where he met his wife, Marnie. However, his true passion lay in construction, prompting him to transition to a project engineer position at Sverdrup Engineering. Here, he was instrumental in the expansion project of Concourse D at SeaTac airport, a significant stepping stone in his career.
His Career Path with JH Kelly
Robert began his tenure at JH Kelly as a Field Engineer in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Over the years, he excelled in managing numerous large-scale projects and eventually climbed the corporate ladder to business development manager. His profound impact in this role led to his promotion to Director of Marketing and Business Development.
Seeking further professional growth, in 1999, he took on a leadership role with a service contractor in San Diego, refining his skills in overseeing large sales teams. Four years later, he returned to JH Kelly as Vice President, reinvigorated and equipped with new insights and strategies to advance the company's objectives.
Robert Harris Selected to Head Newly Acquired Company for JH Kelly
In 2018, JH Kelly acquired Portland Mechanical Contractors, and he was selected to manage the integration of this new company. His effective leadership ensured a smooth transition and helped align the newly acquired company with JH Kelly's strategic goals.
The Personal Side of Robert Harris
Beyond his professional life, he is a devoted husband and father, married for 33 years, and a parent to three children. He and his wife relish the opportunity to travel, enjoying the rich tapestry of cultures, cuisines, and architecture worldwide. Their travels have brought them closer and enriched their family's life with unique experiences and perspectives. He also maintains his passion for hockey, playing in an over-35 league in McMinnville, Oregon, and has a broad interest in music and sports.
He also remains actively involved in the community, serving on the Cowlitz Economic Development Council and several other influential boards. His involvement underscores his commitment to contributing to his professional field and community.
Rob Harris exemplifies a blend of professional dedication, personal fulfillment, and community involvement, making him a respected leader and an admired figure in his community and beyond.
