Your Boots on the Ground & Eyes on the Site: In-House Construction Services Team

By Steve Lebeda, VP of Construction Services, Occidental Management 

Launching a new business, relocating, or remodeling an existing business might seem overwhelming. You’re already wearing multiple hats but may not know where to begin when it comes to the construction side of things. That’s where our in-house construction services department comes in.

At Occidental Management, we take pride in helping our clients find the best solution for their individual business needs. Whether the client already has a clear vision and just needs a construction team or requires assistance in bringing their vision to life, we offer full project execution from concept to occupancy.

Together with Brady Sullivan, Regional Director of Construction Services, and Tiffany Stokes, Project Manager/Coordinator – Construction Services, our department has a combined 50+ years of experience in our field. We can provide a turn-key service, harnessing our extensive network and industry relationships while ensuring the timely and budget-conscious delivery of
top-tier projects.

Let’s face it, everything is easier when you have a partner. We also have a shared interest in our clients to be successful. So, having an in-house services team is a win-win for all.

Bridging Communication & Advocating for Our Clients

The discussion as to our involvement starts before a lease is signed. We are a part of the conversation regarding the client’s construction needs upfront. If a client simply needs new paint, carpet, or an A/C unit, our property management handles those logistics. Anytime a permit is involved, then that’s where we come in.

I essentially act as a consultant throughout each client’s project, and the level of involvement from our department depends on the individual project and the client’s needs. Many of our national clients have their own construction manager, so I serve as the property owner rep throughout those projects.

Whereas, if we have a client that doesn’t have the manpower to deal with the construction or simply doesn’t want to, and all they want to do is order furniture and move in their computers, then we can serve as the construction manager for their build-out or remodel. In that scenario, we’ll hold the design and construction contracts, track all the costs, and coordinate owner-provided furniture and equipment into the project for a seamless move-in.

We know the nuances of working with all the various teams throughout a construction process, including architects, and electrical, mechanical, and structural engineers. We work with the municipalities and governing authorities for all necessary plan approvals, permitting and pricing.

No matter what level of involvement we have, I am here to help bridge communication and help clients navigate throughout the entire process. We want clients to be confident in what we present and in what they are spending, and at the end of the day, we are all rowing in the same direction. We want to help them get off the ground on the right foot and concentrate on what they need to do to transition and grow their businesses.

Finding Diamonds in the Rough

Our construction team is also involved in assessing properties before Occidental Management invests in any new properties or land development. If we are looking at building it’s because there’s a need, a niche to fill, and/or a customer inquiry. So, our team will review and inspect the building from the standpoint of what is this building today, what do we need it to be, and how
do we get it there. Then, I’ll get to working on preliminary design concaepts, budgeting, and potential rent scenarios.

We don’t shy away from challenging projects and love seeing the rewards of those challenges. Two of my personal favorite projects have been Union Station in Wichita and Overland Park Xchange (OPx) in Overland Park.

Union Station presented a unique opportunity to work on a historic building, overcoming structural issues and restoring it to its former glory. It was very gratifying to be involved with a building that was neglected and decaying, and we were able to bring it back as a well-known landmark in Wichita.

Similarly, OPx was a complex project that required careful planning and execution. Occidental purchased the property out of foreclosure, and we had to keep it operational for tenants throughout the remodeling process. With a massive spread of approximately 750,000 SF on two levels, the building underwent a remarkable transformation, including the replacement of the dilapidated brick facade with modern glass and metal panels.

Occidental Management’s commitment to finding and revitalizing neglected properties is a testament to their dedication to the community and their vision for creating vibrant spaces. By turning “diamonds in the rough” into thriving landmarks, we are contributing to the resurgence of these buildings and the overall growth of the region.

Meet your Construction Services team.