NEWTON, MA— Commodore Builders has appointed seasoned construction executive John Tobin as Vice President and Leader of the firm’s Retail and Hospitality Group. Tobin brings more than 30 years of experience spanning construction management, design leadership, and owner-side representation for some of the most prominent brands in the restaurant, retail, and hotel sectors.
Tobin joins Commodore from The Related Companies, where he served as Senior Vice President of Design and Construction, overseeing all food and beverage projects across New York City. His previous roles include leading the New York Hospitality Division at Shawmut Design and Construction, where he managed a national portfolio of hotels, restaurants, and event venues for high-profile clients.
Tobin’s career began on Cape Cod as a residential carpenter before he transitioned into commercial construction in Boston. Over the decades, he advanced from Superintendent to Project Manager, Director of Construction, Director of Hotels, and ultimately Senior Vice President of Design & Construction. His dual experience as both builder and client has shaped his reputation for practical leadership, strong communication, and a nuanced understanding of how to create exceptional guest-facing environments.
With more than 300 restaurants, retail spaces, and hospitality projects completed throughout his career, Tobin’s portfolio includes Boston mainstays such as Flour, Neptune Oyster Bar, O YA, Scampo, Nebo, Legal Sea Foods Harborside, Davio’s, and Bleacher Bar. Nationally, he has contributed to renowned establishments including Per Se, Le Bernardin, 11 Madison Park, Nobu, Del Frisco’s, and Hard Rock Café. His hotel work spans major properties such as the Boston Harbor Hotel, Marriott Copley Place, Boston Park Plaza, Waldorf-Astoria, The Palace, InterContinental-Barclay, and St. Regis.
“John’s combination of field experience, client insight, and executive leadership will enable Commodore to accelerate our growth in the retail and hospitality market,” said Tom Comeau, President of Commodore Builders. “He brings a level of sophistication and understanding of client expectations that will elevate our delivery and strengthen our partnerships.”
Tobin, based at Commodore’s Newton headquarters, will oversee teams serving clients across New England and other key markets as the firm continues to expand its presence in the retail and hospitality sector.
