Keeley Companies Announces Executive Leadership Promotions

SEPTEMBER 18,  2024 – ST. LOUIS, MO – Keeley Companies is proud to announce several key leadership transitions that reflect intense commitment to growth, internal development, and strategic planning. Effective Monday, September 16, Tom Birkemeier has transitioned to CEO of Keeley Construction Group, Jim Lee will now serve as the President of Keeley Construction Group, Mike Rupinski will now serve as Chief Risk Officer, and Ron Roellig has been promoted to Executive Vice President of Civil. Rusty Keeley will continue to serve as the CEO of Keeley Companies.

Keeley Companies is dedicated to nurturing talent from within and is proud to leverage the deep experience and fresh perspectives of their Executive Leadership Team. This new team is structured for scalable growth across the nation and across all business units. “Our people are our most important asset and I am a firm believer that if you get the people right, the results will follow,” said CEO, Rusty Keeley. “In this case, we got the people right, and I could not be more excited to have these strategic visionaries leading the charge and writing this next chapter in our history.”

These internal promotions showcase Keeley’s dedication to their culture, ensuring continuity in their core values and complete alignment on their mission and vision. This will mark Keeley Construction's fifth president in 50 years, and all five are still full-time Keeley’ns.

About Tom Birkemeier

Tom Birkemeier has served as an effective construction leader for over 40 years, having served as the President of Keeley Construction for the past decade. As CEO, Tom will collaborate with Rusty Keeley and the Presidents of Keeley Construction Group & Keeley Restoration Services to help shape and communicate the long-term vision and strategic direction for the company. His decades of experience will allow him to act as a mentor and advisor to Executive Leadership, ensuring alignment and helping navigate challenges. Lastly, Tom will oversee all special projects, including company-wide initiatives such as mergers & acquisitions, major strategic shifts, or significant investments. Tom embodies Keeley’s mission and core values, and he continuously positions his teams to execute on every promise while exceeding expectations. 

About Jim Lee

Jim Lee brings over 35 years of construction experience to Keeley Construction. Since June 2020, Jim has served as the Executive Vice President of Building & Industrial, bringing in new customers, rapidly growing these teams, and executing larger, more complex projects across the nation. As President, Jim will take on all responsibilities of the President, including overseeing the management of Keeley Construction's daily operations, leading Keeley to continued success.

About Mike Rupinski

Mike has been a valued member of the Keeley family for 27 years, having served as the President of Keeley Construction, President of ZeroDay Technology Solutions, Leader of the Building Group, and Vice President of Risk. Mike's passion and expertise in navigating risk is essential to the success of Keeley Companies as they continue to grow in scale and complexity. In this role, Mike will oversee Risk Management, Legal, Claims, DOT Compliance, Project Controls, IT, and Change Management. As Chief Risk Officer, Mike will ensure Keeley is positioned to take on any new challenges and new opportunities.

About Ron Roellig

Ron joined the Keeley family in January of 2019 as the Vice President of Civil Infrastructure. During these past six years, Ron has led the Civil Infrastructure Group through explosive growth, growing the team to over 250 Keeley'ns today. In February 2024, Ron took over in leading the entire Civil Group as Senior Vice President. With Ron at the helm, he is sure to guide the Civil Group to even more growth, excellence, and success in the years to come.

About Keeley Companies

Keeley Companies is a customer-centric partner providing innovative solutions. The safety, well-being, and career growth of all team members are the benchmarks of success. Keeley Companies encompasses Keeley Construction Group, Keeley Properties, Keeley Restoration Services, and Keeley Capital, proudly offering unified solutions as a single source for investment, development, management, construction, and restoration. With 1,700+ Keeley’ns across the nation, Keeley Companies serves a wide range of industries and customers from coast to coast with an everlasting commitment to achieving results on purpose.