WC Smith has named Brad Fennell as Chief Executive Officer for the company, effective Jan. 1, 2025.
Since joining WC Smith full time in 1987, Fennell has worked in almost all facets of the company. For two decades he has been responsible for WC Smith’s real estate development activities, from entitlement and design through construction and stabilization. Under his leadership, the company has produced more than 6,000 residential units in a wide range of product types. He has also led the development of nearly 1 million square feet of commercial and retail properties.
In 2023 Fennell became the company’s Chief Operating Officer, adding oversight of WCS Construction and DES to his responsibilities.
As CEO Fennell will work with the leadership of the company’s divisions to direct all aspects of the enterprise.
“It gives me great pleasure to announce Brad’s promotion,” said Chris Smith, Chairman and CEO of WC Smith. “Brad brings essential qualities to the CEO position: deep institutional and professional knowledge; extensive experience working with industry, local and community leaders; and critical skills as a collaborator and convener of teams across divisions within WC Smith.”
Smith will retain his role as Chairman of WC Smith and will maintain a full and active role focusing on strategic planning for the company.
“With Brad’s ascension, this will be the first time in WC Smith’s history that the company will be run by someone outside of the Smith family,” Smith said. “This is change, yes. But it’s also a continuation. We’re fortunate that we can embrace this change under the guidance of someone who is so closely associated with all the factors that have made us a success.”
