Construction firm also strengthens leadership team with two key hires as project pipeline grows across New York City and the Northeast.
NEW YORK — Swinerton Builders has promoted longtime construction executive Jay Quackenbush to vice president and division manager of its Northeast Division, part of a broader effort by the commercial contractor to expand its leadership team as its regional project portfolio grows.
The company also highlighted two recent strategic hires — Nicholas Schifferle as director of client relations and Robert Murphy as project executive — bringing nearly 70 years of combined industry experience to support the firm’s operations across New York City and the broader Northeast construction market.
Leadership Promotion
Quackenbush, a New York native, brings nearly three decades of experience managing complex construction projects throughout the city. In his new role, he will oversee the division’s strategy, operations, and project delivery as Swinerton continues to grow in the region.
“With extensive industry relationships, deep understanding of New York City’s unique building conditions, and strong leadership of the growing team, he is well-equipped to advance the division’s strategic goals,” said Ray Haj, chief operational officer and East Coast regional manager at Swinerton.
Beyond his work at the company, Quackenbush is active in industry and community organizations, serving on the boards of Rebuilding Together New York and Building Congress Foundation, and participating in the regional leadership committee for Associated Builders and Contractors.
New Talent to Support Growth
Schifferle, who joined Swinerton in 2025, brings more than 20 years of business development and design-build experience across international markets including Asia, Australia, and the United States. His background includes managing projects for JLL in Thailand and overseeing development work in Singapore before establishing a design-build firm in San Francisco.
At Swinerton, Schifferle focuses on client relationships and project strategy, particularly in mixed-use development and workplace design.
Murphy, an industry veteran, joins as project executive after overseeing more than $650 million in commercial interior construction throughout his career. In his role, he will manage project teams and help guide project execution across the division.
Quackenbush praised Murphy’s leadership, noting his operational experience and ability to strengthen project teams.
Growing Presence in the Northeast
Since launching its Northeast Division in 2021, Swinerton has steadily expanded its presence in the region, delivering projects across all five boroughs of New York City and building relationships with repeat clients.
Recent projects include a 17,700-square-foot office fit-out for IPC Systems, the renovation of the historic Warsaw Theater, and a new workplace for Patreon.
The division has also completed a three-floor, 75,000-square-foot law firm renovation at 140 Broadway, featuring a precast terrazzo staircase connecting the floors.
In addition to commercial interiors and office projects, the company has begun expanding its portfolio into education, residential, and public-sector construction, including new work with local universities and developers.
“Our team continues to grow in response to a strong pipeline,” Quackenbush said. “We focus on talent who share our commitment to excellence and knowledge of the communities in which we live and work.”
