Brian Daniel - President and CEO | Carroll Daniel Construction Company

Our history is the foundation for our future. How conscious are we of how we’re building it? Good question, right?

According to Brian Daniel, President & CEO of Carroll Daniel Construction and today’s special guest on North GA Business Radio, developing robust leadership within an organization is instrumental in propelling a company forward.

Successful businesses have a positive impact on their communities, and understanding this connection leads to greater overall success.
Investing in employee growth through mentorship and training underlines how nurturing young talent can seed the future success of a venture. And how a resilient and dedicated team bridges the gap between a company’s vision and success.

With over 20 years of experience in the construction industry, Brian has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in cultivating a skilled and committed workforce.

Rooted in a family legacy that spans over 70 years, Brian’s focus on investing in employee growth and development has not only propelled his company’s success but also set a benchmark for fostering a community of strong leaders within the construction sector.
Brian’s innovative leadership training programs and apprenticeship initiatives have played a pivotal role in grooming the next generation of construction professionals, reflecting his dedication to building a people-focused business culture.

His insights and strategies in driving business growth through employee development make him an influential figure in the realm of workforce empowerment.

Key Highlights of This Episode:

00:00:07 – Introduction and Legacy
Phil Bonelli introduces the show and guest Brian Daniel, owner of Carol Daniel Construction. They discuss the company’s legacy, foundation, and the great things they are building for the future of the community.

00:02:00 – Company History and Growth
Brian Daniel shares the history of Carol Daniel Construction, founded by his grandfather after World War II. He discusses the company’s growth, industrial and public work projects, and their presence in different markets.

00:08:30 – Focusing on Business Niche
The conversation focuses on the importance of having a specific business niche and the value it adds to the company. Brian explains how they settled on their niches and the process of building specific business units.

00:10:04 – Developing Leadership
Phil and Brian discuss the importance of developing leadership within the company, especially with the aging construction leaders. Brian highlights their leadership training programs and the focus on building a new generation of leaders.

00:14:13 – Training and Development
The conversation dives into the training programs at Carol Daniel Construction, including in-house training and bringing in outside consultants. Brian emphasizes the importance of investing in people and their personal development within the company.

00:15:43 – Passion and Business
Brian discusses how his passion for both commercial banking and farming has helped him see the interconnectedness of different industries. He emphasizes the importance of running a farm with a business mindset to ensure its sustainability.

00:17:13 – Principles of Success
Brian shares that the fundamental principles of farming such as hard work, reaping, and sowing, are applicable to all businesses. He highlights the importance of these principles in achieving success in any industry.

00:18:30 – A Tale of Turkeys
Brian recounts a humorous anecdote about ordering a 29-pound turkey from Hopewell Farms for Thanksgiving. He emphasizes the quality of the turkey and the satisfaction of supporting local businesses.

00:20:47 – Leadership and Industry Fulfillment
Brian discusses the importance of staying engaged in the construction industry and serving clients during dynamic and exciting times. He highlights the role of construction companies in contributing to the growth and development of various sectors.

00:29:37 – Thriving Through Difficult Times
Brian reflects on the challenges faced during the recession and the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing circumstances, finding areas of differentiation, and maintaining a growth mindset to thrive through difficult times.

00:31:11 – The Importance of Relationships in Business
Brian Daniel emphasizes the significance of having great employees and loyal customers during tough times, highlighting the key role of relationships in business success.

00:32:21 – Lessons from the Great Recession
Brian shares how his grandmother’s experiences during the Great Depression shaped his conservative approach to business decision-making, emphasizing the importance of learning from past hardships.

00:33:42 – Generational Optimism
The conversation delves into the cyclical nature of hardship and the resilience of generations, with a focus on the potential of young individuals to step up and take charge when faced with challenges.

00:35:22 – The Role of Continued Growth in Business
Brian discusses the significance of growth for creating internal opportunities and enhancing competitiveness, emphasizing the importance of growth as a means to offer career advancement for employees.

00:38:17 – Building Opportunity and Enriching Lives
The conversation highlights the intentional impact of Carol Daniel Construction in building opportunities for individuals, both internally and through corporate giving, and enriching lives through their work.