Ryan Companies Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ryan Companies has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, technology, legal, and regional market development.

Focused on delivering integrated construction and real estate solutions, Ryan Companies prioritizes sustainable craftsmanship and long-term value creation to enhance communities and support diverse business growth across the United States.

Leadership Roles at Ryan Companies

  • Chief Executive Officer - Brian Murray
  • Chief Financial Officer - Michael Schipper
  • Chief Operating Officer - Paul Springthorpe
  • National President - Michael Ryan
  • President, Southern Division - Julie Ferguson
  • President, Western Division - James McDonald
  • President (South Central) - Nathan Golik
  • President, Southwest Region - Chuck Carefoot
  • 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 strategic vision for this integrated construction and real estate organization. Murray oversees the alignment of architecture, engineering, and property management divisions to ensure consistent delivery of high-quality commercial and industrial projects. By fostering a culture of innovation and sustainability, the Chief Executive Officer drives long-term value for clients across the healthcare, residential, and public sectors. This leadership role involves constant engagement with the board to refine market positioning and operational efficiency. Brian Murray maintains a focus on expanding the national footprint while upholding the core values of craftsmanship and community impact. Through rigorous oversight of corporate initiatives, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that every project meets evolving client expectations. Ultimately, Murray secures the competitive advantage of the firm by integrating comprehensive services into a unified, client-focused business model.
    Brian Murray

    Michael Schipper - Chief Financial Officer

    Michael Schipper, the Chief Financial Officer at Ryan Companies, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for this multifaceted construction and development firm. Schipper oversees financial reporting, risk management, and investment analysis to support the company's diverse portfolio of commercial and industrial projects. By optimizing capital structures, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the organization maintains the liquidity necessary for large-scale real estate development and infrastructure initiatives. This role involves close collaboration with regional presidents to monitor project profitability and resource distribution across North American markets. Michael Schipper drives financial transparency and accountability, providing the data-driven insights required for sustainable growth. Through meticulous oversight of budgetary controls and economic forecasting, the Chief Financial Officer protects the long-term financial stability of the enterprise. Schipper consistently aligns fiscal policies with the broader mission of delivering high-value, community-enhancing spaces.

    Paul Springthorpe - Chief Operating Officer

    Paul Springthorpe, the Chief Operating Officer at Ryan Companies, directs the daily execution of construction and development projects across the national portfolio. Springthorpe oversees the integration of architecture, engineering, and property management workflows to ensure seamless project delivery. By standardizing operational processes, the Chief Operating Officer improves efficiency and quality control in the healthcare, residential, and public sectors. This leadership role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to meet complex project timelines and safety standards. Paul Springthorpe drives operational excellence by implementing best practices that support the company's commitment to innovation and craftsmanship. Through active management of field operations and resource allocation, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every development aligns with client goals and community needs. Springthorpe maintains a focus on scaling operational capacity to support the firm's expansion into new markets while upholding rigorous performance benchmarks.
    Paul Springthorpe

    Michael Ryan - National President

    Michael Ryan, the National President at Ryan Companies, directs the firm's nationwide business development and client relationship strategies. Ryan oversees the expansion of the company's presence in the commercial, industrial, and public sectors by identifying new market opportunities and fostering strategic partnerships. By aligning regional efforts with the national mission, the National President ensures consistent service delivery and brand excellence across all geographic territories. This leadership role involves engaging with key stakeholders to promote the company's integrated approach to construction and real estate development. Michael Ryan drives the pursuit of large-scale projects that support business growth and community development. Through the coordination of national sales and marketing initiatives, the National President strengthens the firm's market position. Ryan maintains a focus on delivering long-term value to clients by leveraging the company's comprehensive expertise and commitment to quality craftsmanship.

    Julie Ferguson - President, Southern Division

    Julie Ferguson, the President, Southern Division at Ryan Companies, directs all construction and development operations within the southern region of the United States. Ferguson oversees the planning, design, and execution of projects that support commercial, healthcare, and residential needs in this high-growth market. By managing local teams and fostering client relationships, the President, Southern Division ensures that every project reflects the company's commitment to innovation and quality. This role involves coordinating with national leadership to align regional activities with the broader corporate strategy. Julie Ferguson drives the expansion of the firm's footprint by delivering integrated solutions that meet the specific demands of the southern market. Through the oversight of project lifecycles and resource management, the President, Southern Division secures the successful completion of complex developments. Ferguson maintains a focus on creating spaces that enhance communities and support the long-term business goals of regional clients.
    Julie Ferguson

    James McDonald - President, Western Division

    James McDonald, the President, Western Division at Ryan Companies, directs the strategic growth and operational performance of the firm's western regional portfolio. McDonald oversees the development of commercial, industrial, and public sector projects, ensuring that each initiative aligns with the company's standards for sustainability and craftsmanship. By managing regional teams and local partnerships, the President, Western Division drives the delivery of integrated construction and real estate solutions. This role involves navigating complex regulatory environments and market dynamics to secure new business opportunities. James McDonald maintains a focus on operational efficiency and client satisfaction, ensuring that projects contribute to the economic vitality of the region. Through the oversight of project teams and financial performance, the President, Western Division supports the company's national mission. McDonald consistently delivers high-value spaces that meet the evolving needs of western clients while upholding the firm's reputation for excellence.

    Nathan Golik - President (South Central)

    Nathan Golik, the President (South Central) at Ryan Companies, directs the construction and real estate development initiatives across the south central region. Golik oversees the end-to-end project lifecycle, from initial planning and design to final construction and property management. By fostering strong relationships with local clients and community leaders, the President (South Central) ensures that the firm's integrated solutions address specific regional requirements. This role involves managing regional resources and talent to maintain high standards of quality and innovation. Nathan Golik drives the growth of the company's portfolio in the commercial and industrial sectors by delivering projects that provide long-term value. Through the oversight of regional operations and strategic planning, the President (South Central) supports the company's broader national objectives. Golik maintains a focus on operational excellence and client success, ensuring that every development enhances the community and supports business growth.

    Chuck Carefoot - President, Southwest Region

    Chuck Carefoot, the President, Southwest Region at Ryan Companies, directs the strategic development and construction activities within the southwest territory. Carefoot oversees the execution of complex projects, including healthcare facilities, residential developments, and commercial spaces. By managing regional operations and client engagement, the President, Southwest Region ensures that the firm's integrated services meet the unique demands of this expanding market. This role involves coordinating with cross-functional teams to deliver high-quality, sustainable projects that support community growth. Chuck Carefoot drives the pursuit of new business and the maintenance of existing client relationships to ensure regional success. Through the oversight of project delivery and operational performance, the President, Southwest Region contributes to the company's national reputation for excellence. Carefoot maintains a focus on innovation and craftsmanship, ensuring that every project provides lasting value and meets the evolving expectations of clients in the southwest.
    Chuck Carefoot

    Troy Zierden - Chief Technology Officer

    Troy Zierden, the Chief Technology Officer at Ryan Companies, architects the digital infrastructure and technological advancements that support the firm's construction and real estate operations. Zierden oversees the implementation of building information modeling, data analytics, and project management software to enhance design and construction precision. By integrating advanced technology into the development lifecycle, the Chief Technology Officer drives productivity and improves collaboration between architects, engineers, and clients. This role involves evaluating emerging industry tools to maintain a competitive edge in the commercial and industrial sectors. Troy Zierden manages the cybersecurity and IT systems that protect sensitive project data and corporate assets. Through the deployment of scalable digital solutions, the Chief Technology Officer supports the company's mission of delivering high-quality, sustainable spaces. Zierden ensures that technological investments directly contribute to operational efficiency and the creation of long-term value for all stakeholders.
    Laura Graf, the Chief Legal Officer at Ryan Companies, manages the legal framework and regulatory compliance for the organization's extensive construction and real estate development activities. Graf oversees contract negotiations, risk mitigation strategies, and corporate governance to protect the firm's interests across all sectors. By providing legal counsel on complex land use, zoning, and development agreements, the Chief Legal Officer ensures that every project adheres to local and national regulations. This role involves collaborating with executive leadership to navigate legal challenges and support strategic business initiatives. Laura Graf drives the development of policies that promote ethical conduct and operational integrity. Through proactive legal oversight, the Chief Legal Officer minimizes liability and supports the successful delivery of community-enhancing projects. Graf maintains a focus on resolving disputes and fostering strong partnerships, ensuring that the company's legal posture remains aligned with its long-term growth objectives.
    Laura Graf

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    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 Paul Springthorpe (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), Paul Springthorpe (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, National President, President, Southern Division.