In this episode of Deconstructed, Mandy Bujold welcomes Jacinta Grootjen, Principal Consultant at Primary People Group, to explore how HR strategy and intentional leadership can help construction businesses thrive.
Jacinta shares her journey into construction through her work with a developer where she built an HR department from the ground up. She explains how her firm supports businesses by providing fractional HR services, streamlining processes, and helping leaders navigate transitions, from next-gen ownership to scaling operations.
The conversation highlights common challenges construction companies face, such as maintaining quality during growth and preserving the “secret sauce” that makes them unique. Jacinta emphasizes the importance of focusing on people, processes, and tools to drive sustainable growth and innovation.
She also addresses misconceptions about working with consultants, emphasizing the partnership model her firm employs, where solutions are co-created with business owners. Jacinta’s passion for building better communities shines through as she explains how fostering a positive internal culture leads to better outcomes for the industry as a whole.
Whether you’re a next-gen leader stepping into big shoes or an owner looking to exit gracefully, this episode offers practical insights and inspiration for navigating change while keeping your company’s values intact.
Learn more about Primary People Group at primarypeoplegroup.com.
0:55 - 3:38: Jacinta’s background in HR, her journey into construction, and how she developed a passion for the industry.
3:39 - 6:03: The role of construction professionals in building communities and the challenges companies face as they grow.
6:04 - 11:08: Profiles of companies Jacinta works with, from next-gen leaders to owners looking to exit their businesses.
11:09 - 14:28: Signs that business owners need help, such as excessive time spent on operations or quality issues.
14:29 - 16:16: Commonalities among businesses Jacinta supports: gaps in people, processes, and tools.
16:17 - 20:48: Challenges faced by next-gen leaders stepping into established businesses and preserving the "secret sauce."
20:49 - 24:31: The emotional journey of leaders navigating change, and how Jacinta partners with them to reimagine their businesses.
24:32 - 29:58: Jacinta’s role as a partner and guide for business owners during transformational changes and challenging situations.
29:59 - 36:06: Misconceptions about bringing in a consultant, including fears of losing control or becoming overly reliant.
36:07 - 38:53: What "better" looks like for the construction industry: focusing on people and internal culture.
