Terracon Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Terracon has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, technology, finance, operations, and legal.

Committed to engineering excellence and sustainable infrastructure, Terracon delivers comprehensive project support through data-driven insights and technical expertise to solve complex challenges across diverse sectors.

Leadership Roles at Terracon

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Gayle Packer
  • Chief Financial Officer - Donald Vrana
  • Chief Operating Officer - Central Operating Group - Robert Pavlicek
  • Chief Operating Officer, Western Operating Group - Tim Anderson
  • Executive Vice President & Group Chief Operating Officer, Eastern Operating - William Anderson
  • President - John Hartwell
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Vanessa Zambo
  • Chief Information Officer - Jason Kephart
  • Chief Legal Officer - Aaron Mann
  • Gayle Packer - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Gayle Packer, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Terracon, directs the overarching strategic vision and long-term growth initiatives for the firm. Packer oversees the integration of environmental consulting, geotechnical services, and facilities engineering to ensure consistent project delivery across North American markets. By aligning the employee-owned structure with client-focused innovation, the President & Chief Executive Officer maintains high standards for safety and sustainability. Gayle Packer drives the executive team to optimize operational efficiency while expanding the firm's footprint in critical infrastructure sectors. Through rigorous oversight of corporate governance and market positioning, Packer ensures that the organization remains a leader in providing reliable, high-quality engineering solutions. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine business models and secure the firm's competitive advantage in the consulting engineering landscape.
    Gayle Packer

    Donald Vrana - Chief Financial Officer

    Donald Vrana, the Chief Financial Officer at Terracon, directs the financial planning, reporting, and capital allocation strategies that sustain the firm's employee-owned model. Vrana oversees the fiscal health of the organization, ensuring that resources are effectively distributed to support environmental consulting and geotechnical service lines. By managing complex financial operations, the Chief Financial Officer provides the stability required for long-term investment in innovation and safety initiatives. Donald Vrana collaborates with the executive team to analyze market trends and optimize profitability across diverse sectors. This role involves maintaining rigorous financial controls and transparency to support the firm's commitment to high-quality results. Through strategic budgeting and risk management, Vrana ensures that the firm remains well-positioned for growth and operational excellence. The Chief Financial Officer drives financial performance, enabling the organization to pursue ambitious projects while maintaining a strong balance sheet.

    Robert Pavlicek - Chief Operating Officer - Central Operating Group

    Robert Pavlicek, the Chief Operating Officer - Central Operating Group at Terracon, directs the operational execution of engineering and environmental projects throughout the central region. Pavlicek oversees the deployment of technical experts and resources to ensure that site evaluations and construction support meet the firm's rigorous safety standards. By optimizing workflows within the Central Operating Group, the Chief Operating Officer - Central Operating Group enhances project delivery speed and quality. Robert Pavlicek manages the integration of materials testing and facilities engineering services to solve client challenges efficiently. This role involves coordinating with other regional leaders to share best practices and maintain consistent service levels across the firm. Through active management of operational teams, Pavlicek drives productivity and ensures that all projects align with the company's mission of delivering reliable, data-driven results in the central market.

    Tim Anderson - Chief Operating Officer, Western Operating Group

    Tim Anderson, the Chief Operating Officer, Western Operating Group at Terracon, directs the operational strategy and project execution for the firm's western regional portfolio. Anderson oversees the performance of multidisciplinary teams specializing in geotechnical services and environmental consulting. By focusing on operational excellence, the Chief Operating Officer, Western Operating Group ensures that all project phases, from initial evaluation to asset management, adhere to the firm's high standards for sustainability and safety. Tim Anderson manages resource allocation and talent development to meet the unique demands of the western market. This role involves driving efficiency in materials testing and facilities engineering to support client success. Through strategic oversight of regional operations, Anderson ensures that the firm maintains a competitive edge and delivers high-quality engineering solutions that address complex infrastructure challenges across the western territory.

    William Anderson - Executive Vice President & Group Chief Operating Officer, Eastern Operating

    William Anderson, the Executive Vice President & Group Chief Operating Officer, Eastern Operating at Terracon, directs the operational activities and strategic growth of the firm's eastern regional business units. Anderson oversees the delivery of comprehensive engineering services, including environmental consulting and materials testing, to ensure project success. By managing the Eastern Operating Group, the Executive Vice President & Group Chief Operating Officer, Eastern Operating drives the implementation of innovative solutions that address complex construction and infrastructure needs. William Anderson coordinates with technical experts to maintain high quality and safety standards across all regional projects. This role involves optimizing operational processes to improve efficiency and client satisfaction. Through the leadership of regional teams, Anderson ensures that the firm's commitment to data-driven insights and sustainable practices remains central to all operations within the eastern market.

    John Hartwell - President

    John Hartwell, the President at Terracon, directs the tactical execution of business objectives and supports the firm's operational leadership in achieving project milestones. Hartwell oversees the alignment of technical service lines with client needs, focusing on the delivery of high-quality environmental and geotechnical solutions. By fostering a culture of innovation and safety, the President ensures that the firm's teams remain focused on solving complex challenges through data-driven insights. John Hartwell manages the coordination between various operating groups to streamline project support from initial site evaluation through construction. This role involves driving internal efficiency and supporting the executive team in refining the firm's market approach. Through the oversight of key business functions, Hartwell ensures that the organization maintains its reputation for reliability and excellence across all sectors, ultimately contributing to the firm's long-term success and stability.

    Vanessa Zambo - Chief Marketing Officer

    Vanessa Zambo, the Chief Marketing Officer at Terracon, architects the brand strategy and market engagement programs that define the firm's presence in the construction and engineering sectors. Zambo manages the communication of technical capabilities, ensuring that the value proposition of environmental and materials testing services reaches key stakeholders effectively. By leveraging data-driven insights, the Chief Marketing Officer enhances client acquisition strategies and strengthens the firm's reputation for innovation. Vanessa Zambo coordinates with regional leadership to tailor messaging for diverse project environments, from initial site evaluation to final asset management. This role involves directing digital transformation efforts within the marketing department to improve lead generation and brand visibility. Zambo ensures that all promotional activities reflect the core commitment to safety and sustainability, ultimately supporting the firm's growth objectives through targeted outreach and strategic market positioning.
    Vanessa Zambo

    Jason Kephart - Chief Information Officer

    Jason Kephart, the Chief Information Officer at Terracon, directs the digital infrastructure and technological framework necessary to support complex engineering projects. Kephart oversees the implementation of advanced data analytics and secure information systems that enable engineers and scientists to deliver precise, high-quality results. By modernizing the firm's IT architecture, the Chief Information Officer ensures seamless collaboration across geographically dispersed teams. Jason Kephart manages cybersecurity protocols and software integration to protect sensitive project data and enhance operational efficiency. This leadership role involves aligning technology investments with the firm's long-term goals for sustainability and innovation. Through the deployment of scalable cloud solutions and robust network management, Kephart supports the technical experts in solving intricate challenges. The Chief Information Officer maintains the integrity of the firm's digital assets, ensuring that all systems facilitate reliable project outcomes for clients.
    Jason Kephart
    Aaron Mann, the Chief Legal Officer at Terracon, directs the legal strategy, risk management, and compliance frameworks that protect the firm's interests. Mann oversees the legal aspects of environmental consulting, geotechnical services, and facilities engineering contracts to ensure alignment with industry regulations. By mitigating operational risks, the Chief Legal Officer supports the firm's commitment to safety and high-quality project delivery. Aaron Mann manages complex legal matters, including litigation, intellectual property, and corporate governance, to safeguard the organization's reputation. This role involves advising the executive team on regulatory changes and contractual obligations that impact the firm's diverse sectors. Through proactive legal counsel, Mann ensures that the company operates within ethical and legal boundaries while pursuing growth. The Chief Legal Officer maintains the integrity of the firm's business practices, providing the necessary legal foundation for sustainable and reliable engineering operations.
    Aaron Mann

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Terracon Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Terracon?
    Terracon is led by Gayle Packer (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Donald Vrana (Chief Financial Officer) and Robert Pavlicek (Chief Operating Officer - Central Operating Group).
    Who is part of Terracon’s executive team?
    The executive team of Terracon includes leaders such as Gayle Packer (President & Chief Executive Officer), Donald Vrana (Chief Financial Officer), Robert Pavlicek (Chief Operating Officer - Central Operating Group) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Terracon have?
    Terracon has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Terracon’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Terracon includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer - Central Operating Group, Chief Operating Officer, Western Operating Group, Executive Vice President & Group Chief Operating Officer, Eastern Operating.