Deery Named GFT’s Chief Growth Officer

GFT has named Joseph Deery, PE, its first-ever chief growth officer, a position born of the firm’s continued expansion in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.

“Joseph understands our industry, markets, and the clients we serve. With his proven track record and 36 years of experience, he is ideally suited to drive GFT’s acquisitive and organic growth strategy,” said Bob Scaer, PE, GFT CEO. “As an integral member of the firm’s executive leadership team, Joseph’s futuristic thinking will guide GFT as we continue to solve our client’s most pressing infrastructure challenges.”

Deery, who initially joined GFT in 2021 as a senior vice president and market executive, will now have responsibility for:

• Overseeing the firm’s comprehensive growth operating plan.
• Guiding all business development and sales activities.
• Revamping core go-to-market strategies and systems.

“GFT has a 108-year history of delivering incredible, high-quality work with integrity. Our current growth is building upon that strong foundation with a refined strategy and capture process and distinct sales organization that further focuses on how we help clients achieve their vision, all with the same inclusive culture that has made us a preferred employer in the AEC industry,” Deery said. “Now, backed by the strategic investment of OceanSound Partners, GFT is in a unique position to further expand our firm, diversify our offerings in service to our clients, and continue to attract and retain the brightest minds.”

Before coming to GFT, Deery served in senior leadership positions at Jacobs and HNTB and owned and operated a heavy civil construction company. Throughout his career, he has been known for his collaborative project oversight, strong relationships, team-first mentality, and keen understanding of clients’ needs. Always future-focused, Deery is a thought leader regarding mobility, technology, alternative project delivery methods, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) in the AEC industry.

A committed ally and advocate for small-, disadvantaged-, women-, and minority-owned businesses, Deery has a unique understanding of the challenges they face given his time as a small business owner. Therefore, he has helped countless companies succeed and will focus on these strategic partnerships and supplier diversity in his new role.

Deery is active in many community and professional organizations, including the American Council of Engineering Companies, American Society of Civil Engineers, WTS, Asian American Association of Architects and Engineers, and the Council of Minority Transportation Officials. He earned his Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from Roger Williams University and his Master of Engineering in environmental engineering from Stevens Institute of Technology.