Executive Employment Opportunities in Atlanta Metro

Friday, February 11, 2011

We Are History in the Making: Alum Michael B. Russell


MICHAEL B. RUSSELL
Chief Executive Officer
The Russell Companies

Michael Russell was promoted to chief executive officer of The Russell Companies in October 2003, succeeding his father Herman Russell, who founded the company in 1952 and lead it for 50 years. A 21 year veteran of the construction and real estate development industry, Michael is charged with leading the Company to greater heights as it embarks on its next 50 years.    The Company’s operational focus will be in construction and program management, real estate development and property management.

Known as an innovative thinker and manager who empowers employees to bring fresh perspectives to their jobs, Michael’s talents are well-aligned with the company’s new operational management structure, which encourages entrepreneurial efforts.

Michael is also responsible for overseeing daily operations of The Russell Companies, which include H.J. Russell & Company, the single largest minority-owned real estate development and construction firm in the United States and Concessions International, an innovator in the airport food and beverage concessions industry.

The Russell Companies employ more than 2,000 people and have operations in 12 major cities, including its Atlanta headquarters, Dallas, Detroit, Miami, Raleigh, Seattle, Denver, Portland and the USVI

Michael spent most of his career with H.J. Russell & Company, serving in a variety of executive positions, most recently as executive vice president where he was responsible for the management and strategic direction of the construction and program management divisions.  During his tenure, Michael held a variety of positions from cost estimator to project manger to head of business development. 

Michael has been involved in the construction industry since he was a youngster and early in his career worked with renowned developer and architect, John Portman, which provided him with invaluable experience in all aspects of the development business, including engineering, field supervision, project management and business development.

Michael received his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Virginia and earned his MBA from Georgia State University.

Michael is very active in the community involved in business and civic organizations. He serves on the boards of various organizations including the Metro Atlanta Chamber (Executive committee), Commerce Club, Grady Hospital Corporation (Executive committee), Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Foundation, SunTrust Atlanta Bank Advisory Board and University of Virginia Health Foundation Board.  Michael is also a member of the Atlanta Rotary Club.

Michael is a native of Atlanta. He and his wife Lovette have two sons, Michael Jr. and Benjamin.

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