BOSTON— Shannon McCarthy’s leadership and ability to deliver innovative marketing strategies have earned her a respected reputation in the construction industry and beyond. Her proven track record of original thinking and knack for relationship building make her a vital part of Timberline Construction’s Senior Leadership Team.
“I enjoy the variety, the ever-changing nature, and the fast-paced production of our work,” says Ms. McCarthy, Vice President of Marketing at Timberline. “The constant challenges keep me engaged and motivated to deliver creative, high-quality results.”
With over 20 years of experience in marketing, Ms. McCarthy has a robust background in the industry with a focus on the construction, design and real estate sectors.
Developing and delivering proactive marketing and communications as well as client-focused business development efforts, Ms. McCarthy understands end users and building owners across various property types, including office, lab, academic and industrial spaces.
On March 12, 2025, Ms. McCarthy will be honored with the Outstanding Women of 2025 award at the annual Women of the Year awards gala at Burlington Marriott Hotel in Burlington, MA.
To buy a ticket for the gala, please click here.
At Timberline, Ms. McCarthy is a leader in brand strategy, communications and business development efforts, managing the firm’s marketing team and initiatives. Her efforts include building and executing strategic marketing initiatives and campaigns to support Timberline’s overall business objectives and market awareness. Her expertise is utilized to influence the press, award submissions, and recognition of the exceptional people, projects and clients that Timberline works with on a daily basis. Additionally, Ms. McCarthy is responsible for leading marketing and communications for both Timberline Communications Inc. (TCI) and Tenney Mountain Resort.
Prior to joining Timberline in 2020, Ms. McCarthy spent 10 years commercial real estate with JLL and most recently as the New England Director of Marketing & Communications for Cushman & Wakefield. She has also held marketing roles in architecture and design firms, giving her a comprehensive understanding of the A/E/C industry. She is a member of NAIOP, serving as Co-Chair of the Programs Committee from 2022-2024 and is involved in supporting Youth Enrichment Services (YES) of Boston. Shannon received her bachelor’s from Denison University with a focus in Communication and a Certificate in Interior Design from the New York School of Design.
Timberline, which was founded in 2002 and has quickly grown to become one of the most respected construction managers in New England, prides itself in the diversity of its portfolio and range of clients. This varied experience allows the firm to learn from each project to continuously improve as professionals and as a firm. From logistically complex, large ground-up projects to small, highly technical relocations, we are well-versed in working with clients in the academic, corporate, multi-family residential, life science and technology sectors. The firm’s expertise range from construction management, preconstruction and design-build to all of its clients each day.
Two of Timberline’s recent projects were recently awarded ENR Best Regional Projects honors, including Veralto in Waltham, MA and Cushing Academy’s Sawyer Hopkins Dormitory & Wellness Center in Ashburnham, MA. Some of Ms. McCarthy’s recent projects include helping our client Youth Enrichment Services (YES) with a groundbreaking ceremony in Roxbury as well as for Malden Catholic this past spring. Both are ground-up projects supporting Boston-area youth.
Here is a Q&A with Ms. McCarthy.
Boston Real Estate Times: What do you enjoy most about your work?
Shannon McCarthy: I enjoy the variety, the ever-changing nature, and the fast-paced production of our work. The constant challenges keep me engaged and motivated to deliver creative, high-quality results.
BRET: What is the one thing you attribute your success to?
SM: I can’t pinpoint just one thing, as my success comes from a combination of factors. Prioritization, project management, effective communication, and a solution-oriented mindset are key skills I focus on daily. Equally important are the people around me, my supportive husband, family, friends, and mentors—who constantly encourage and uplift me. Additionally, working for a company that values and promotes my professional growth has played a significant role in my success.
BRET: To which charitable, community and professional groups do you belong and why?
SM: I have been actively involved with NAIOP as the Co-Chair of the Programs Committee for the past two years. NAIOP provides some of the best real estate-focused content in our region, making it a valuable organization to be a part of.
Additionally, I have re-engaged with YES (Youth Enrichment Services), where I originally volunteered as a ski instructor when I moved to Boston 15 years ago. It’s been rewarding to reconnect, especially as both Tenney Mountain and Timberline Construction have established ties with the organization in recent years.
BRET: In what way do you feel you have most positively influenced or served the local community, your company/organization or professional field?
SM: I encourage my fellow marketing professionals to align themselves with people and companies that genuinely value marketing. While this may seem obvious, I’ve encountered situations where marketing expertise is not fully understood or appreciated. In those cases, I believe it’s important to recognize when it’s time to move on to environments that truly support and leverage the impact of marketing.
BRET: What are your hobbies and interests?
SM: I love spending time with family and friends, whether traveling, skiing, yoga or enjoying the outdoors throughout New England. I also enjoy nights out in Boston, exploring new restaurants or catching a show.
BRET: Your favorite books?
SM: I haven’t had much time for leisure reading since my son was born five years ago, so my favorite books are the ones I read with him each night. Right now, Learning to Ski with Mr. McGee is a favorite.
BRET: Your favorite quotes?
SM: “Work like a captain. Play like a pirate.” – Anonymous
BRET: The one person you would like to meet and why?
SM: I would love to meet both of my grandfathers, as they are the only immediate family members, I never had the chance to know.
BRET: Your core values you try to live by?
SM: Integrity, determination & humility.
BRET: What inspires you?
SM: My parents. They not only raised me to be the person I am today, but they also built successful careers and continue to make the most of their retirement in their 80s. Their hard work, resilience and ability to enjoy life inspires me every day.
