Exciting changes are afoot at Rinderknecht Associates as they announce the next generation of leadership that will take them into a new chapter.
For 144 years, the company has had a hand in some of the area’s most notable structures, including the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, the Cedar Rapids Police Station, and Mercy Medical Center.
Today, that strong foundation and legacy continue as they announce that Bob Gaffney, formerly Rinderknecht’s CFO, has been appointed President. Scott Friauf will remain the Chief Executive Officer, and Miranda Von Ahsen will become Chief Financial Officer.
Additionally, Louis Ruggio has been appointed Vice President — Operations, Kelly Edmonds as Vice President — Construction, and Gordon Parker will continue as Executive Vice President.
These changes are a testament to Rinderknecht’s everlasting commitment to excellence for its customers, continued growth and success for its employee-owners and its strong, professional workforce.
As President and CEO of Rinderknecht since 2015, Scott Friauf has played many roles, including innovator, dreamer, and servant leader. He has helped Rinderknecht become a leader in the commercial construction industry, specializing in data centers, healthcare, warehouses, education, and churches.
“I started my journey as a laborer in the field and was able to achieve my goal of President and CEO over my 37-year career,” said Friauf. “Our next generation of leaders already have the necessary experience and cultural mindset of service instilled in them to lead the way forward. Continuous change with unwavering service is what makes Rinderknecht’s legacy.”
Mr. Gaffney joined Rinderknecht Associates five years ago as the CFO, and brings extensive experience to his new position. He began his career as a CPA and moved into treasury management, where he broadened his skill set to include insurance, cash management, investments, benefit plan administration, and all things ESOP.
“I’m excited about the challenge of the new role and pleased we have gotten to where we are,” said Gaffney. “As a company, we have spent a lot of time and effort trying to get the right people in the right seats who will push our organization to the next level.”
Ms. Von Ahsen joined the company in 2020 and previously held the title of Controller. She brings a wealth of financial knowledge to her new role, including her previous work experience with Ryan Companies and WRH. Mr. Ruggio has been with Rinderknecht since 2013 and previously served as Project Engineer and Project Manager before stepping into the Operations role.
Mr. Edmonds has been with Rinderknecht for over a decade, working his way up from Project Manager. He has a long-standing history in the industry, having previously worked in the commercial construction markets of St. Louis and Washington D.C. Mr. Parker continues his role as Executive Vice President and head of preconstruction. He has been with Rinderknecht since 1988, previously serving as Estimator and Chief Estimator.
“This series of promotions on our leadership team will help us accomplish our long-term growth goals while still providing high-quality construction and customer service that our customers and community have come to know,” said Mr. Gaffney. ‘We will continue to emphasize our core values (safety excellence, always doing the right thing, and commitment to serve), celebrate our employee-owned culture, and focus heavily on employee development.”