The Next Step on Her Journey
The term “first hundred days” of a new president’s tenure started with FDR, and since then, it has taken on symbolic significance and is considered a benchmark to measure a president’s early success. For Janet Sheppard, former CFO and new president of Davie Construction Co., the first hundred days have been exhilarating, inspiring, and full of productive insights.
The Connection Continues
“I was honored that Carl asked me to accept this position when he decided to step away from management’s day-to-day activities to focus on enriching client relationships, attracting new business, and serving as an ambassador for Davie across the southeast in his CEO role. We have worked side-by-side for 27 years, sharing the challenges and successes of building Davie Construction into a $100 million-plus company, “she said. “He believed it was my time to take on the leadership responsibilities, and I had clear objectives for the company’s growth. We have always been friends and business partners and continue to talk every day. His input is invaluable.”
Confirming a Culture of Caring
Janet admits that her previous days as a CFO have become longer as president, but she is energized by the opportunity to steer the company’s future. “I love this company and the Davie family. It’s been a privilege to be part of the three decades of growth started by Carl in 1993. The success is completely attributable to the people on our team. Our focus on family attracts the very best people. They are loyal and hardworking and appreciate that we prioritize their families. My growth plans include strengthening our core values in the years ahead, continuing our caring culture and devotion to the Golden Rule, no matter how big our team becomes,” she said. “Our clients recognize and respect how these values guide our company and demonstrate this with their incomparable level of repeat business.”
Strategic Leadership Development
The first 100 days of Janet’s presidency involved much listening, learning, and identifying ways to empower team members at every level. “We are building an organizational structure for the future,” she said. “This involves strategic change to anticipate how the next generation of leaders will succeed. I am helping our executive vice presidents prepare themselves for higher positions. Promoting from within is a Davie tradition that fuels our team’s commitment and rewards personal and professional growth. We want to ensure that all our team members are motivated and acknowledged for their improvement and hard work.
Anticipating Industry Trends
Janet is optimistic in her analysis of the construction industry’s prospects through the end of the year. “We serve such a wide range of sectors that a slowdown in one area is balanced by growth in another,” she said. “Interest rates continue to impact private sector development, and navigating labor costs and the shortage of qualified employees are still challenges. But we are blessed to be in such a high-growth region, in a state that focuses on attracting business,” she said.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Janet doesn’t see herself breaking any glass ceilings as president of a construction company. Still, she is pleased by the number of women on the Davie team and actively encourages others to consider the industry as a career choice. “This is truly an equal opportunity profession with many areas to attract dedicated, hardworking young people. Open your mind to the possibilities,” she said. Janet enjoys mentoring team members and, as the mother of two successful adult children, offers sage advice to those beginning their careers. “Life is a book, and each chapter of your life is a journey. There will be some happy times and sad times. You will learn a lot along the way that will shape you. Ultimately, you will find yourself where God knew you would be all along. Stop worrying and enjoy the ride.”
Away from the Office
When Janet isn’t working, she relaxes by playing pickleball, entertaining, and spending time with friends and family. She and her husband, Craig, have a real estate business, which is one of her passions. A proud Country Girl, Janet’s favorite musician is Eric Church.