Ryan Companies Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ryan Companies has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, technology, legal, regional leadership, and architecture/engineering.

Driven by a commitment to innovation and client success, Ryan Companies delivers comprehensive construction, architecture, development, and real estate management services, shaping communities across the United States since 1938.

Leadership Roles at Ryan Companies

  • Chief Executive Officer - Brian Murray
  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Schipper
  • Chief Operating Officer - Matthew Leaney
  • President- Southeast - Patrick Chesser
  • President, Architecture Engineering - Michael Rodriguez
  • President, Southwest Region - Chuck Carefoot
  • President, Southern Division - Julie Ferguson
  • National President - Michael Ryan
  • Chief Technology Officer - Troy Zierden
  • Chief Legal Officer - Laura Graf
  • Brian Murray - Chief Executive Officer

    Brian Murray, the Chief Executive Officer at Ryan Companies, directs the overarching corporate strategy and vision. Murray guides the organization's expansion and market positioning within the construction, architecture, development, and real estate management sectors. This leadership role involves fostering a culture of innovation and operational excellence across all business units. Murray ensures alignment with the company's long-standing mission of delivering exceptional value and building lasting relationships with clients and partners. The Chief Executive Officer's purview encompasses driving sustainable growth and enhancing the company's reputation as a leader in the industry. Brian Murray actively shapes the company's strategic direction, focusing on long-term financial health and market leadership. This executive ensures that all divisions operate cohesively to achieve unified business objectives and maintain Ryan Companies' competitive edge in a dynamic marketplace.
    Brian Murray

    Michael Schipper - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Schipper, the Chief Financial Officer at Ryan Companies, directs all financial planning, accounting, and reporting functions. Schipper manages the company's fiscal health, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital management, ensuring financial stability and strategic investment. This executive oversees risk management and compliance with financial regulations, safeguarding the company's assets. The Chief Financial Officer plays a pivotal role in evaluating new business opportunities and mergers, providing critical financial analysis. Michael Schipper ensures that financial strategies support the long-term objectives of Ryan Companies, driving profitability and shareholder value. This leadership position involves close collaboration with other executives to align financial resources with operational and strategic goals, maintaining a strong financial foundation for continued expansion.

    Matthew Leaney - Chief Operating Officer

    Matthew Leaney, the Chief Operating Officer at Ryan Companies, oversees the day-to-day operational execution and efficiency across all service lines. Leaney manages the integration of construction, architecture, engineering, development, and real estate management functions to ensure seamless project delivery. This critical role involves optimizing resource allocation and implementing best practices to enhance productivity and client satisfaction. Leaney drives operational improvements that directly support the company's growth objectives and commitment to quality. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities include ensuring robust project management frameworks and fostering collaboration among operational teams. Matthew Leaney focuses on streamlining processes and mitigating risks to maintain project timelines and budgets, thereby reinforcing Ryan Companies' reputation for reliability and excellence in service delivery.

    Patrick Chesser - President- Southeast

    Patrick Chesser, the President- Southeast at Ryan Companies, directs all operations and strategic growth initiatives within the Southeast region. Chesser oversees the full spectrum of services, including construction, architecture, development, and real estate management, tailored to the specific market demands of the area. This leadership role involves building strong client relationships and expanding the company's presence and project portfolio throughout the Southeast. The President- Southeast ensures operational excellence and profitability within the region, aligning local strategies with national corporate objectives. Patrick Chesser drives business development efforts, fostering a team dedicated to delivering exceptional results and upholding Ryan Companies' commitment to quality and client satisfaction in this key geographic market.

    Michael Rodriguez - President, Architecture Engineering

    Michael Rodriguez, the President, Architecture Engineering at Ryan Companies, leads the design and engineering divisions, driving innovation in architectural and engineering solutions. Rodriguez oversees the development of creative and functional designs that integrate seamlessly with construction and development projects. This executive ensures that the architecture and engineering teams collaborate effectively to meet client needs and project specifications. The President, Architecture Engineering focuses on advancing design methodologies and leveraging technology to enhance project outcomes. Michael Rodriguez's leadership ensures that Ryan Companies delivers aesthetically pleasing, structurally sound, and sustainable designs, reinforcing the company's integrated service model and commitment to design excellence.
    Michael Rodriguez

    Chuck Carefoot - President, Southwest Region

    Chuck Carefoot, the President, Southwest Region at Ryan Companies, spearheads all business activities and strategic development within the Southwest territory. Carefoot manages the delivery of comprehensive services, including construction, architecture, development, and real estate management, adapting strategies to regional market dynamics. This executive is responsible for cultivating client partnerships and expanding Ryan Companies' footprint across the Southwest. The President, Southwest Region ensures operational efficiency and financial performance, driving growth and market share in this vital area. Chuck Carefoot leads regional teams to achieve project success and uphold the company's standards of quality and client service, contributing significantly to the organization's overall expansion.
    Chuck Carefoot

    Julie Ferguson - President, Southern Division

    Julie Ferguson, the President, Southern Division at Ryan Companies, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for the company's Southern Division. Ferguson oversees the integrated delivery of construction, architecture, development, and real estate management services across this expansive territory. This leadership position involves fostering strong client relationships and driving market penetration to achieve significant growth. The President, Southern Division ensures that divisional operations align with corporate goals, focusing on profitability and client satisfaction. Julie Ferguson leads teams to execute complex projects, uphold quality standards, and enhance Ryan Companies' reputation for excellence throughout the Southern United States.
    Julie Ferguson

    Michael Ryan - National President

    Michael Ryan, the National President at Ryan Companies, provides high-level strategic oversight and leadership across the company's national operations. Ryan focuses on driving national growth initiatives and ensuring consistent execution of the company's mission and values across all regions. This executive role involves fostering key stakeholder relationships and championing the company's integrated approach to construction, architecture, development, and real estate management. The National President's purview includes identifying emerging market opportunities and guiding the company's long-term strategic planning. Michael Ryan's leadership ensures that Ryan Companies maintains its competitive edge and continues to deliver exceptional value and service nationwide, reinforcing its position as an industry leader.

    Troy Zierden - Chief Technology Officer

    Troy Zierden, the Chief Technology Officer at Ryan Companies, leads the strategic implementation and management of technology across the organization. Zierden oversees the development and deployment of innovative technological solutions that enhance construction, architecture, development, and real estate management services. This role involves driving digital transformation initiatives and ensuring the company leverages cutting-edge tools for efficiency and competitive advantage. The Chief Technology Officer's focus includes cybersecurity, data management, and the integration of new technologies into project workflows. Troy Zierden ensures that technology investments align with business objectives, supporting operational excellence and client-focused solutions, thereby strengthening Ryan Companies' position in the market.
    Laura Graf, the Chief Legal Officer at Ryan Companies, provides strategic legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the organization. Graf manages corporate governance, contract negotiation, risk mitigation, and compliance across all business operations, including construction, development, and real estate management. This executive ensures that the company adheres to all applicable laws and regulations, protecting its interests and reputation. The Chief Legal Officer plays a key part in advising on major transactions and strategic initiatives. Laura Graf's expertise supports Ryan Companies in navigating complex legal landscapes, ensuring sound decision-making and minimizing potential liabilities, thereby contributing to the company's sustained success and integrity.
    Laura Graf

    Explore Leadership Teams in Construction Management

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ryan Companies Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ryan Companies?
    Ryan Companies is led by Brian Murray (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Michael Schipper (Chief Financial Officer) and Matthew Leaney (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Ryan Companies’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ryan Companies includes leaders such as Brian Murray (Chief Executive Officer), Michael Schipper (Chief Financial Officer), Matthew Leaney (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ryan Companies have?
    Ryan Companies has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ryan Companies’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ryan Companies includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President- Southeast, President, Architecture Engineering.