Posts Tagged ‘news’
REX KIRBY FEATURED IN THE ECONOMIC COUNCIL OF PALM BEACH COUNTY, INC “CONVERSATIONS WITH THE COUNCIL”
COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION AND COMMUNITY
Rex Kirby stands at the forefront of the construction industry, leading Verdex Construction with a vision that blends innovation, sustainability, and community engagement. But he will be the first to admit he doesn’t do it alone. His commitment to collaboration and transparency fosters an environment where employees feel empowered to contribute ideas.
As President and CEO, Rex manages a team of 110 people with headquarters in West Palm Beach, Tampa, and Gainesville. “I promote and actually have an open-door policy. I am always willing to jump in and help when someone needs my involvement. I’d say I promote a “roll up your sleeves and help” attitude and expect that from everyone in the company.” His talented team works on diverse projects, including multi-family units, assisted living and memory care facilities, K-12 and higher education institutions, as well as public sector, commercial, and hospitality developments. If you’ve taken in the stunning views from the rooftop of the Canopy Hotel by Hilton or played pickleball atop Tortoise One, the upscale residence on Dixie Highway, you’ve seen how they are redefining the downtown West Palm Beach skyline.
With forty years of expertise, Rex and his staff take pride in “Building Something Better.” “I am a thoughtful leader. I don’t like to make instantaneous decisions. If I am torn over an issue, I will wait until I ponder it and ask more questions.” However, that wasn’t always the case. “My listening skills have improved over time, much less of a get it done or get out of the way approach. “
A proud graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in Civil Engineering, Rex began his career in Texas but, after a year and a half, relocated to Orlando to be an assistant project manager before making the leap to become Senior Vice President of the Florida Division for Suitt Construction. “I was fortunate to work for/with two people at the beginning of my career w
ho were the best at what they do but opposites. One taught me the art of networking and building relationships. The other taught me to hold my ground and have my ducks in a row. It was very valuable working with them at a young age.” After 15 years at Suitt, he came to South Florida to serve as President and General Manager of the Southeast Region for Suffolk Construction before starting Verdex ten years ago.” From day one, we’ve focused on how we can help clients make their projects work. We don’t want to rubber-stamp a project. We come up with out-of-the-box ideas on how we can get their budgets in line.”
He brings that same commitment to the Economic Council of Palm Beach County. “I was invited to join by Jonathan Satter and Nat Roberts at the time. There was and is a great group of business leaders, and the mission is to drive a businessfriendly environment in Palm Beach County. It is important to pay attention to the direction of the county and put our strength behind important initiatives that will impact our businesses and quality of life.” He says his membership is beneficial to his company. “Having the business community together on an issue is extremely effective in driving and communicating our views and the impact of a decision on Palm Beach County. It’s also a great way to get to know people in the business community and build relationships.”
Like others on the council, he sees the urgent need for solutions to the county’s housing, traffic, and education challenges. Nevertheless, he’s optimistic, believing that he and his peers can make real progress as they’ve done throughout his fourteen years on the council. “We are able to share concerns and meet with decision-makers to drive change where needed.”
Just as he works to address countywide issues, Rex inspires his team to strengthen local communities, encouraging them to volunteer, knowing that hands-on involvement builds a stronger, more invested company culture. He brings a down-to-earth, genuine approach and sincere dedication to making a difference, whether participating in fundraising events or lifting up tomorrow’s leaders.
Conversations with the Council was written by: Corey Saban
Corey Saban is a communications strategist working with clients on public
speaking skills, corporate storytelling, and marketing initiatives that drive results
REX KIRBY REPRESENTS VERDEX CONSTRUCTION AT SOUTH FLORIDA BUSINESS JOURNAL REAL ESTATE POWER LEADERS ROUNDTABLE
Verdex Construction’s President, Rex Kirby, recently participated in the South Florida Business Journal Power Leaders Roundtable, an exclusive event where regional real estate leaders discussed the current opportunities and challenges in South Florida’s development landscape.
The roundtable addressed a variety of industry issues, including rising construction costs, the ongoing affordable housing shortage, and the growing importance of sustainable practices. Kirby highlighted Verdex Construction’s approach to navigating these complexities, focusing on value engineering, sustainability, and strong partnerships.
Speaking on the significance of long-term relationships in the construction and real estate sectors, Kirby emphasized the importance of trust and collaboration. “Long-term relationships have liquidity to move forward,” Kirby said. “People can’t waste time with someone who won’t be able to get a deal done.” This insight underscores Verdex’s commitment to building partnerships that enable smooth project execution, even in a fluctuating market.
Another key point discussed was how Verdex leverages technology to optimize project delivery. Kirby highlighted the company’s use of advanced project management tools to improve communication, streamline processes, and ensure project deadlines are met, even in the face of supply chain disruptions and labor shortages.
Kirby also addressed the pressing need for affordable housing in South Florida, noting Verdex’s efforts to balance cost-effective construction solutions while maintaining high-quality standards. By working closely with developers and municipalities, Verdex continues to find innovative ways to contribute to the region’s housing crisis.
Visit the South Florida Business Journal to read more.
ABOUT VERDEX CONSTRUCTION – Verdex Construction is a privately held building contractor headquartered in West Palm Beach, FL with offices in Tampa and Gainesville. Led by founder and President Rex Kirby, a 40-year veteran in the construction business, Verdex provides general contracting services to clients including preconstruction, construction management, and design-build. Verdex celebrates 10 years “Building Something Better” through exceptional service, a fundamental focus on safety and quality, and value to owners, customers, and the community. For more information, visit www.verdex.com.
VERDEX CONSTRUCTION PRESIDENT, REX KIRBY, NAMED A 2024 POWER LEADER IN REAL ESTATE
Verdex Construction proudly announces that its President and CEO, Rex Kirby, has been recognized as a Power Leader in Real Estate by the South Florida Business Journal (SFBJ) for 2024. This esteemed recognition highlights Kirby’s outstanding contributions and leadership within the real estate industry.
Under Kirby’s visionary leadership, Verdex Construction has solidified its position as a major player in the South Florida construction landscape. In 2023, the firm soared to impressive heights, securing the sixth spot among the largest general contractors and ranking as the 35th-largest private company in South Florida. Notable projects spearheaded by Verdex Construction under Kirby’s guidance include The Adderley in Fort Lauderdale and Tuttle Royale in Royal Palm Beach, both boasting valuations exceeding $90 million.
Born in Tallahassee, Kirby’s journey to success is underscored by his academic prowess, holding a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Florida. His dedication to excellence is further evidenced by his commitment to leveraging emerging technologies within the real estate sector. Kirby believes that artificial intelligence will revolutionize the industry, emphasizing the pivotal role of data in driving efficiency and the potential of robotics in mitigating labor shortages.
Read more: SFBJ 2024 Power Leaders in Real Estate – South Florida Business Journal (bizjournals.com)
ABOUT VERDEX CONSTRUCTION – Verdex Construction is a privately held building contractor headquartered in West Palm Beach, FL with offices in Tampa and Gainesville. Led by founder and President Rex Kirby, a 40-year veteran in the construction business, Verdex provides general contracting services to clients including preconstruction, construction management, and design-build. Verdex celebrates 10 years “Building Something Better” through exceptional service, a fundamental focus on safety and quality, and value to owners, customers, and the community. For more information, visit www.verdex.com.
VERDEX CONSTRUCTION BREAKS GROUND ON TREASURE COAST FOOD BANK
Verdex Construction and Treasure Coast Food Bank (TCFB) broke ground on a new warehouse and distribution facility located at 400 Loop Road in Fort Pierce. This is a collaboration with Corrales Group Architects to design a state-of-the-art 130,000-square-foot tilt building warehouse. This facility will feature a full production kitchen, small kitchen, offices, and warehouse/storage space, optimizing TCFB ability to serve the community. With a focus on functionality and innovation, Verdex is dedicated to creating a space that not only meets the needs of the Treasure Coast region but also enhances TCFB’s capacity to provide essential services efficiently.
VERDEX CONSTRUCTION WELCOMES SCOTT SHERRY AS NEW CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Verdex Construction is pleased to announce the appointment of Scott Sherry as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO). With over 20 years of extensive accounting experience in both public accounting and corporate settings, Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role.
As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and holder of an MBA, Scott has a proven track record of financial management leadership. In his previous role, Scott played a pivotal part in steering financial strategy and negotiations, contributing significantly to the company’s overall success. Before that, he served as Director of Accounting where he played a crucial role in maintaining financial controls and addressing unique financial challenges.
Throughout his career, Scott has cultivated strong relationships with project personnel, subcontractors, project owner leadership, internal team members, and company executives. His ability to connect with stakeholders at all levels has contributed to his success as a trusted business advisor. Scott’s proficiency extends to accounting, forecasting, and tax matters, where he has consistently demonstrated a high level of competence and strategic insight. His skills and experience make him a valuable addition to Verdex Construction’s executive leadership team.
“We are thrilled to welcome Scott to Verdex Construction Company as our CFO. His extensive background in financial management and his ability to foster strong relationships align perfectly with our company values and mission of “Building Something Better,” said Rex Kirby, Verdex CEO.
Scott’s proven track record in financial management aligns seamlessly with Verdex Construction Company’s commitment to excellence and innovation. We look forward to leveraging his expertise to enhance our financial management practices and drive success in our upcoming projects.
VERDEX CONSTRUCTION TEAM DONATES TOYS AND SUPPLIES TO CHILDREN AND FAMILIES IN NEED
The Verdex Construction team donated toys and supplies to children and families in need this holiday season through HomeSafe and the Children’s Network of Hillsborough, LLC. Specifically, our South Florida team bought gifts for the boys of HomeSafe to open up this Christmas, and our West Coast Team worked with the Children’s Network of Hillsborough to help a family in need who lost essentials in a house fire.
HomeSafe is a nationally accredited non-profit organization dedicated to protecting victims of child abuse and domestic violence in Palm Beach County and South Florida.
Children’s Network of Hillsborough is a relatively new organization that is in charge of administering the child welfare system in Hillsborough County, working with the community to protect children and preserve families.
VERDEX CONSTRUCTION BREAKS GROUND ON STAFFORD AT ARTISAN LAKES
Verdex Construction breaks ground on The Stafford at Artisan Lakes, a 300 unit wood framed apartment for the Collier Companies. Designed by Dynamik Design, the rental community will feature eight 3-story apartment buildings. Amenities include a 8,000 sf stand alone clubhouse with a fitness center, clubroom, coworking space, dog park and pool. Project includes 484 surface parking spots and six 6-bay garage buildings.
The project is expected to be completed by the Spring of 2025.
THE WATERMARK AT WEST PALM BEACH RECEIVES ABC EXCELLENCE IN CONSTRUCTION AWARD
The Watermark at West Palm Beach project received a 2023 ABC Florida East Coast Excellence in Construction Award for quality.
Located in downtown West Palm Beach, the Watermark at West Palm Beach is a luxury 8-story, 154-unit independent living, assisted living and memory care, totaling 269,463 gsf. Amenities include a full kitchen, dining rooms, fitness center, salon, flexible meeting space, theater, sky lounge and pool. Project has a 3-level garage with 145 parking spaces and valet.
The team overcame many challenges like complex logistics, specialized doors and ceilings, and navigating issues through COVID-19.
OUR PRESIDENT, REX KIRBY, NAMED A SFBJ ULTIMATE CEO
Our Ultimate CEO, Rex Kirby, honored as one of only one of 15 “2023 Ultimate CEOs” by the South Florida Business Journal, shares insights about the risks and rewards of starting a business from the ground up, how he defines success, and what he is most proud of in his career (thus far!).
“I’ve always felt like I’ve conducted business the right way. If I gave you my word or I shook your hand, you could take it to the bank,” Rex said.
Rex was recognized for his extraordinary contributions to Verdex Construction, the community and the overall economic fabric of South Florida.
VERDEX CONSTRUCTION NAMED 2023 PROCORE GROUNDBREAKER FINALIST
