Shawmut Adds Strategic Leaders in New England to Accelerate Innovation and Growth

Shawmut has added two new leaders to its New England region: Chris Halliday, the region’s first Director of Construction Innovation and Technology, and Colleen Kelly, Director of Business Development, supporting growth across high-demand sectors in the region. Together, their roles reinforce Shawmut’s commitment to advancing digital transformation, strengthening client partnerships, and driving strategic growth across New England.

In a newly created, cross-functional role, Halliday will lead Shawmut’s regional technology strategy and support the firm’s enterprise-wide digital transformation initiatives. He will evaluate, integrate, and scale emerging technologies that strengthen project delivery and operational performance, while partnering closely with project teams and regional leaders to optimize processes, align data strategies, and expand industry and technology partnerships that reinforce Shawmut’s innovation strategy.

Halliday returns to Shawmut after previously serving as a project manager, where he delivered complex projects and championed firmwide technology adoption, including the rollout of Bluebeam Revu. He brings more than a decade of experience spanning construction management, digital product development, and operational excellence. Most recently, he served as Director and Digital Product Lead at Holcim, where he developed and scaled a software platform across the U.S. and Canada. His background also includes leadership roles at AirWorks, an MIT-backed AI startup, and Delaware North, where he supported delivery of the $1.3 billion Hub on Causeway development and the TD Garden transformation.

“Innovation is accelerating across the construction industry, and this role positions us to stay ahead of that curve,” said Kevin Sullivan, Executive Vice President of Shawmut’s New England Region. “Chris brings a unique combination of field and digital product expertise. His work will help us continue to elevate the client experience while improving efficiency across our projects.”

As Director of Business Development, Kelly joins the team to strengthen client engagement, expand the firm’s presence across the region, and drive growth in sectors experiencing sustained demand. She will work closely with project teams and leadership to identify opportunities, cultivate strategic relationships, and support pursuits aligned with the firm’s long-term regional objectives.

Kelly brings more than 15 years of AEC experience and a rare combination of field, operational, and business development expertise, having grown her career from a Division 8 field installer. Before joining Shawmut, she led pursuits for high-profile projects including the One Dalton Four Seasons tower, NEMA Residence tower, and Millennium tower. Most recently, she oversaw global expansion at Fenagh Engineering and Testing, guiding growth across 13 markets in the U.S. and Europe. Kelly is also deeply involved in the industry, serving on the Board of Directors for the Boston Irish Business Association, co-chairing the Ireland Funds Young Leaders Boston Chapter, and founding the Construction Network Group, in addition to being an active member of CREW Boston and ACEC.

“Colleen’s ability to blend on-the-ground experience with deep industry relationships gives her a unique perspective on what clients truly value,” Sullivan added. “Her leadership will help strengthen our partnerships, expand our reach in key markets, and ensure we continue delivering best-in-class service across New England.”

Halliday’s and Kelly’s appointments support Shawmut’s recently announced national growth strategy, including expansion into new sectors and geographies. As the firm takes on larger, more complex projects, strategic investments in leadership, innovation, and client engagement remain essential to sustaining momentum and delivering exceptional service across every market.