Catamount Constructors, Inc., a 100% employee-owned ENR Top 400 Contractor, has welcomed Tom Alford as Chief Operating Officer (COO), adding nearly 30 years of operational leadership experience to its executive team. His addition strengthens Catamount’s ability to support continued nationwide growth while maintaining disciplined execution.

The creation of the COO position reflects Catamount’s long-term leadership strategy to scale responsibly while maintaining disciplined performance. In this role, Alford will be based in Catamount’s Denver office. He will lead companywide operational processes and execution, oversee safety and Business Unit performance, support teams in managing complex risk, and ensure consistent, high-quality project delivery across all markets. The position reinforces Catamount’s commitment to accountability, safety, and strategic succession planning.

“Tom brings extensive operational expertise, strong leadership instincts, and a collaborative, values-driven approach that aligns well with Catamount’s employee-ownership culture,” said James Benning, CEO of Catamount. “His experience in both construction and development provides a balanced perspective that supports our teams and enhances the client experience.”

With nearly 30 years of experience spanning both construction and development, Alford brings significant operational leadership expertise across the multifamily, healthcare, higher education, life sciences, office, and hospitality sectors. He has led complex organizations, guided teams through growth, and driven disciplined execution across diverse project portfolios. Most recently, he served as COO at Pinkard Construction in Denver. His previous leadership experience includes senior roles at Saunders Construction and Hensel Phelps Construction Co., as well as development positions with Phelps Development and McWhinney.

Alford began his career in the field and has held roles in operations, preconstruction, and business development, giving him a comprehensive understanding of project execution, team dynamics, and success factors that drive success. His background in development also influences his leadership, emphasizing client priorities to deliver lasting value.

Beyond his professional work, Alford is actively involved in the Denver community. He currently serves on the board of the Construction Education Foundation of Colorado and previously served on the boards of the Associated General Contractors of Colorado, the Good Samaritan Medical Center Foundation, and the University of Colorado Denver College of Construction Engineering and Management Advisory Board. He earned both a Master of Science and a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Washington.