Get to Know Construction Project Managers at LaRosa

In the fast-paced world of construction project managers, every successful project requires meticulous planning, flawless execution, and the ability to navigate unexpected challenges swiftly. While architects create the designs and superintendents oversee daily site operations, it is the project manager in construction who seamlessly connects everyone—ensuring that timelines, budgets, and quality meet expectations.

At LaRosa Groups, our construction project managers aren’t just overseers—they are the driving force behind each successful build.

To fully understand how LaRosa’s project managers consistently deliver excellence from start to finish, we sat down with several of the company’s top project managers. Their stories reveal the thoughtful processes, nimble problem-solving, and collaborative mindset that set this award-winning team apart in general contracting and construction management.

A Typical Day for a Project Manager in Construction

As a Senior Project Manager at LaRosa Groups, Rome Santilli's day usually begins before dawn—and no two mornings are exactly alike. "First thing, I check my calendar and scan through emails to get a clear picture of the day's priorities. Immediately after, I jump on calls with my superintendents. We discuss what's happening at the job site, which teams have arrived, what issues they’re facing, and how I can support them,” Santilli explains.

These quick, focused conversations are essential. They allow Santilli to set priorities clearly and to catch small issues before they turn into larger problems.

Santilli's proactive, hands-on approach is consistent throughout LaRosa Groups, where daily check-ins help keep complex construction projects running smoothly.

Project Manager Scot Thomas shares the same belief in proactive communication. “These early conversations are essential,” Thomas emphasizes. "They help to catch any issues and set clear goals for the day ahead."

Thomas adds, “Staying proactive helps us anticipate issues and respond quickly. We’re always communicating with architects, owners, and superintendents to track progress and address any emerging concerns.”

Indeed, mornings for LaRosa’s project managers are devoted to clear and constant communication. Throughout each day, they juggle schedules, coordinate closely with subcontractors, process Requests for Information (RFIs), attend meetings, and strategically prioritize tasks to keep their projects moving forward smoothly and successfully.

Overcoming Challenges: Project Managers Under Pressure

Every construction project inevitably encounters roadblocks. Exceptional project managers are defined by their ability to respond quickly and creatively, ensuring setbacks don’t derail timelines or inflate budgets.

Project managers are masters of on-the-spot problem-solving, an invaluable asset demonstrated time and again on critical projects.

One example illustrating responsive problem-solving occurred during the Tuscan Villages project when last-minute fire safety compliance concerns threatened to stall progress. Santilli assembled all stakeholders—including the LaRosa team, fire officials, architects, and inspectors—to promptly develop a compliant solution. They navigated the potential setback skillfully, meeting deadlines without sacrificing quality or safety.

Similarly, Thomas recalls a cost-related challenge during a multi-unit housing renovation. The original light fixtures were not meant to be replaced, but the owner was unhappy with the existing ones as they didn’t match the aesthetics of the renovation.

When asked to provide new fixtures, original architectural specifications called for costly light fixtures priced at $500 each. Recognizing the potential budgetary strain, Thomas proactively sourced an equivalent alternative priced at under $100 per fixture, saving the client thousands of dollars while preserving the design integrity.

Reflecting on this strategic decision-making, Thomas shares a valuable perspective:

“You have to keep your eye on the big picture—at the end of the day, it’s about keeping the client happy and delivering a quality project.”

Building Success Through Collaboration

Effective project management at LaRosa relies heavily on collaboration, both internally and externally. Relationships with architects, subcontractors, owners, and suppliers are the foundation, built upon clear communication and mutual trust.

Project Manager Daniel Samuel emphasizes the importance of proactive teamwork and clear communication, noting:

“The best way to resolve issues is to be proactive. Strong relationships with subcontractors and clear communication prevent small problems from turning into big ones.”

This team-oriented culture ensures each stakeholder is engaged, respected, and working towards shared objectives. Rather than assigning blame, the focus at LaRosa is always on solutions.

 “Instead of just asking for an answer to a design problem, we’ll offer a solution. It’s about being proactive and demonstrating our expertise,” adds Santilli.

Leveraging Technology to Enhance Efficiency

Another key component behind LaRosa’s smooth operations is their adept use of technology. Project managers leverage advanced tools like Microsoft Project for detailed scheduling and Procore for document management, enabling real-time oversight and efficient collaboration across all stakeholders.

“Technology has transformed the way we manage projects—what used to take days now takes minutes, allowing us to focus on problem-solving rather than paperwork,” shares Santilli.

By digitizing check-ins, automating reporting, and streamlining administrative duties, LaRosa’s project managers gain back valuable time for strategic tasks, ensuring nothing slips through the cracks.

Project Manager Career Pathways for Growth and Adaptability

LaRosa prides itself on developing project management talent internally, cultivating a culture of continuous learning and adaptability. For Scot Thomas, becoming a successful project manager at LaRosa has been a rewarding adventure, built step by step through hands-on experience and continuous learning.

“I began my construction career right after college,” explains Thomas. “My first role was on the ground level, learning carpentry and understanding how buildings come together. Eventually, I advanced to become a lead carpenter, managing small teams and coordinating project details directly on-site.”

Over the years, Thomas's responsibilities grew, and his skills expanded. Recognizing his talent for solving problems and managing complex tasks, he soon transitioned into project management—a role requiring both leadership and strategic thinking.

“My path to project management wasn’t a straight line,” he says. “Every project taught me something new. I quickly learned that adaptability is crucial because what works perfectly on one project might not fit the next.”

Now, Thomas emphasizes the importance of flexibility and a willingness to grow for anyone entering the field.

“In construction, challenges will always arise,” he shares. “Success depends on your ability to adjust quickly, communicate clearly, and never stop learning. If you can do that, you'll keep moving forward in this industry.”

Thomas also emphasizes adaptability as a crucial trait for aspiring project managers.

“It's been a journey of continuous learning and growth. Sometimes you learn the hard way—what worked on one job might not work on another. Adaptability is everything in this industry.”

Financial Stewardship: Protecting Client Investments

While much of project management involves technical oversight and relationship building, financial stewardship is equally important.

Project managers at LaRosa consistently balance budgets, manage invoicing, and align financial practices with client expectations. Careful attention to financial details ensures projects remain on budget and free of unpleasant surprises. Choosing the best approach for the client will maximize the value of their investment. Such dedication demonstrates how LaRosa places client satisfaction at the forefront, transforming project managers into trusted advisors.

"We must understand exactly where every dollar goes. Part of our responsibility is processing invoices, ensuring billing accuracy, and aligning the financial aspect with the timeline," says Santilli.

This financial responsibility is a cornerstone of the trust clients place in LaRosa, knowing their investment is handled with care and precision.

A Forward-Thinking Vision from Project Managers

As construction evolves, project management practices must follow suit. Looking forward, Project Manager Jonathon Turley offers strategic insights into the future role of project management, emphasizing the integration of data-driven processes in decision-making and prioritization.

“We're exploring ways to integrate more data-driven decision-making into our processes. This will allow us to anticipate challenges even earlier and provide even more value for our clients. At the same time, we're maintaining our focus on the relationships and communication that are the foundation of successful projects,” adds Turley.

This vision succinctly encapsulates LaRosa’s ongoing commitment to innovation balanced with prioritizing relationships and clear meaningful communication, ensuring the company stays ahead of the rapidly evolving construction technology environment.

A Commitment to Construction Excellence

At LaRosa, project managers are not merely overseers of construction sites—they are strategic leaders, creative problem-solvers, and dedicated stewards of quality and integrity. Balancing intricate timelines, budgets, and diverse stakeholder expectations, they translate ambitious concepts into exceptional projects that stand the test of time.

“Through careful planning, quick problem-solving, and an unwavering commitment to safety and quality, our project managers exemplify what it means to lead by example. Their dedication ensures the success of every project and upholds the values that define LaRosa,” says James LaRosa, CEO at LaRosa Groups.

Delivering Beyond Expectation

From concept to completion, LaRosa’s project managers consistently deliver beyond client expectations. They bring designs off the page and into reality, transforming client visions into vibrant, successful builds. As they continue navigating new challenges and seizing new opportunities, the talented professionals at LaRosa stand ready to lead the way, maintaining the tradition of excellence that has long defined their award-winning brand.

Ready to partner with an award-winning team for your next construction project? Contact LaRosa Groups today.