ESI Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

ESI has 4 executives leading key functions including financial strategy, human capital management, and overall corporate operations.

Committed to excellence in healthcare and educational infrastructure, ESI delivers high-quality construction solutions while maintaining a focus on community development and long-term structural integrity across the region.

Leadership Roles at ESI

  • Chief Financial Officer - Kevin Smith
  • President - Tommy Gravitte
  • President - Buddy Kirchmar
  • Chief People Officer - Dallis Fontenot
  • Kevin Smith - Chief Financial Officer

    Kevin Smith, the Chief Financial Officer at ESI, manages all fiscal operations and capital allocation strategies. Overseeing the financial health of complex construction projects, the Chief Financial Officer ensures rigorous budget adherence for healthcare facilities and educational buildings. This leadership role involves coordinating with project managers to optimize resource distribution and mitigate economic risks. By implementing robust accounting frameworks, Kevin Smith directly impacts the long-term profitability of the firm. Smith maintains oversight of regional financial reporting, ensuring compliance with industry standards while supporting the broader growth objectives of the organization. Through precise fiscal planning, the Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to fund large-scale infrastructure developments. This position requires constant collaboration with the executive team to align monetary goals with the operational requirements of the construction business, ultimately driving sustainable financial performance for the entire enterprise.

    Tommy Gravitte - President

    Tommy Gravitte, the President at ESI, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the company's healthcare construction division. Overseeing the delivery of critical medical facilities, the President ensures that every project meets stringent regulatory requirements and quality benchmarks. This leadership role involves managing high-level client relationships and securing new contracts within the healthcare sector. By optimizing project workflows, Tommy Gravitte directly impacts the efficiency and reputation of the firm. Gravitte coordinates with regional stakeholders to expand the company's footprint in the medical infrastructure market. Through the application of advanced construction methodologies, the President drives innovation in building design and project management. This position requires constant collaboration with the board to refine long-term business objectives, ultimately ensuring that the organization remains a leader in the construction of essential community infrastructure while maintaining a focus on operational excellence and client satisfaction.
    Tommy Gravitte

    Buddy Kirchmar - President

    Buddy Kirchmar, the President at ESI, directs the strategic operations and business development for the company's educational and commercial construction segments. Overseeing the construction of schools and grocery stores, the President ensures that all projects align with community needs and architectural standards. This leadership role involves managing vendor partnerships and supply chain logistics to maintain project timelines. By streamlining procurement processes, Buddy Kirchmar directly impacts the cost-effectiveness and timely completion of educational facilities. Kirchmar monitors regional market trends to identify new opportunities for growth in the commercial sector. Through the implementation of sustainable building practices, the President enhances the environmental impact of the company's portfolio. This position requires constant interaction with project teams to resolve complex site challenges, ultimately ensuring that the organization delivers high-quality, functional spaces that serve the public interest while maintaining a strong competitive position in the construction industry.

    Dallis Fontenot - Chief People Officer

    Dallis Fontenot, the Chief People Officer at ESI, directs all human capital initiatives and organizational development programs. Overseeing talent acquisition for specialized construction roles, the Chief People Officer ensures the workforce possesses the technical expertise required for healthcare and school projects. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training modules that prioritize safety and operational efficiency across all job sites. By fostering a culture of professional growth, Dallis Fontenot directly impacts employee retention and project quality. Fontenot manages regional recruitment strategies to attract top-tier construction talent, ensuring the company maintains a competitive edge in the industry. Through the implementation of performance management systems, the Chief People Officer aligns individual contributions with the core mission of the firm. This position requires constant engagement with department heads to address staffing needs, ultimately building a resilient and highly skilled team capable of executing complex construction mandates.
    Dallis Fontenot

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding ESI Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads ESI?
    ESI is led by Kevin Smith (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Tommy Gravitte (President) and Buddy Kirchmar (President).
    Who is part of ESI’s executive team?
    The executive team of ESI includes leaders such as Kevin Smith (Chief Financial Officer), Tommy Gravitte (President), Buddy Kirchmar (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does ESI have?
    ESI has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in ESI’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of ESI includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, President, President, Chief People Officer.