Robert Harris JH Kelly

Robert Harris currently holds the role of Executive Vice President of Business Development at JH Kelly, a significant player in MEP and specialty industrial contracting in the Pacific Northwest. Based out of Longview, Washington, the company boasts over 1,200 employees and consistently reports annual revenues above $500 million. With a seasoned background spanning more than 35 years in the construction industry, he brings a wealth of knowledge and a solid commitment to customer service to JH Kelly's project development endeavors. He oversees a team of 12 professionals across the sales, marketing, and business development departments, expertly guiding service operations and executing large industrial CapEx projects. Born in Toronto, Canada, in 1966, he moved to the United States in 1975 when his father took an engineering position in Seattle, Washington. Growing up in an environment influenced by engineering and construction, he developed a strong affinity for the field, following in his father's professional footsteps. His passion wasn't confined to construction alone; he was also an active hockey player, participating in leagues such as the United States Hockey League and playing at Iowa State University during his college years. Although he eventually left Iowa State without completing his degree, his love for sports has continued unabated. After leaving Iowa State, he returned to Seattle, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts in Finance and Humanities at Seattle University. He initially worked as an auditor for a pension fund, a job outside his primary field of interest that led him to meet his future wife. His formal entry into the construction sector began with a position at Sverdrup Engineering, where he managed the demolition and expansion of Concourse D at SeaTac airport. His effective performance in this role set the stage for his future professional path. His career at JH Kelly started as a field engineer in Klamath Falls, Oregon, where he reconstructed a compressor station for PGT, which was subcontracted to Bechtel Corporation. He later managed the construction of a sulfur recovery unit at the CHS refinery in Laurel, Montana, and oversaw various industrial capital projects and shutdowns in southwest Washington. His success in these capacities led to a promotion to Business Development Manager at JH Kelly's Vancouver office, eventually becoming Director of Marketing and Business Development for the entire corporation. In 1999, amidst significant management changes at JH Kelly, he seized the opportunity to lead a service contractor team in San Diego for Cal-Air, where he enhanced his leadership and team management skills. After four years, he returned to JH Kelly, bringing back valuable experience and enthusiasm for his marketing and business development work. In 2018, he was tasked with leading the integration of Portland Mechanical Contractors (PMC) after its acquisition by JH Kelly. His effective leadership facilitated the seamless incorporation of PMC into the company's framework, bolstering the sales culture and financial performance. He works closely with the CEO on strategic acquisitions and is vital to the company's expansion efforts. He also serves on the Cowlitz Economic Development Council board and has previously held board positions at several other regional organizations. On a personal note, Bob Harris is a dedicated family man who enjoys traveling with his wife of 33 years and spending quality time with his three children and grandchildren. An avid sports enthusiast, he still plays hockey in an over-35 league and enjoys music, maintaining a rich and active personal life.