Josef Rettman

President

“There’s no better ethical footprint than to work tirelessly for quality affordable housing. Working closely with our clients, we are dedicated to transforming communities by creating high-quality real estate developments. We strive to deliver outstanding value to our clients and partners on each and every project.”

Construction is in Josef’s blood. As the grandson of a City of Boston road and sidewalk contractor and the son of a general contractor, Josef’s path to construction success was quite literally set in stone from an early age. In 2003, Josef joined NEI General Contracting.

As President, Josef leads NEI with commanding industry knowledge and exceptional attention to detail. For over 30 years, he has been committed to consistent and unparalleled client satisfaction. A devoted supporter of his community, Josef’s involvement with many local charities and organizations speaks to his goal of not only providing a useful and revitalized building but a restored community presence as well. His extensive involvement includes serving on the boards of Metro Housing, where he contributes to initiatives aimed at preventing evictions by ensuring financial support and services for those most in need, helping them find employment and other assistance to avoid homelessness.

Additionally, Josef is engaged with The Neighborhood Developers (TND), a community development organization focused on affordable housing, economic development, and community engagement.

His commitment extends to the Catholic School Foundation, where he actively supports the advancement of Catholic schools and education for all families who wish to send their children to Catholic school. Josef is also a valuable member of JALSA (Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action), actively working at the intersection of Jewish values and social activism. Furthermore, he serves on the board of the Affordable Housing Services Collaborative, contributing to innovative solutions addressing challenges associated with affordable housing.

Josef’s dedication to community service also includes his involvement with Young Warriors, in this role, he supports and mentors young men, guiding them through life’s complexities and empowering them to achieve their fullest potential.

He has also been pivotal in consistently securing NEI’s place among the Boston Business Journal’s Top Charitable Companies every year. This recognition highlights the impact of Josef’s philanthropic efforts, showcasing his commitment to improving the community through ongoing charitable initiatives.

In addition, Josef is active in the Workforce Opportunity Resource Center (WORC²). Developed by NEI in conjunction with various partners, WORC² is designed to engage local, community‐based, and diverse businesses and workers. One particular focus will be providing workers and small businesses with “one-stop shopping” for resources and technical support to promote growth and success in either their careers or businesses.

Josef holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Syracuse University.

Andy Koines

Chief Financial Officer

“I so enjoy working at NEI that I have come out of retirement to rejoin the firm. NEI is comprised of top-notch people from top to bottom. Whether it is human resources, estimating, marketing, risk management, compliance, accounting, or construction management, I enjoy facilitating communication to help everyone be their best and to perform to the highest level on behalf of NEI clients.”

As CFO, Andy plans, develops, directs, and evaluates the organization’s fiscal function and performance. In addition, he evaluates and advises on the impact of long-range planning, introduction of new programs and strategies, and regulatory action. Andy provides timely and accurate analysis of budgets, financial reports, and trends as he assists the management team in developing plans and programs to ensure the continued success of the company.

With 37 years of construction accounting experience, Andy has worked in construction for most of his life. He started in the field and moved into accounting after joining a CPA firm after college. Learning all aspects of the business to understand the operations of the company and industry and knowing how each component impacts the financial health of NEI, all help him conduct his job successfully on a daily basis.

Andy earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Rhode Island (URI) and an MBA in Accounting from Bryant College. He has served on the board of directors for Caritas Communities, The Sage School, and the Sharon Country Club.

Marc Marcelli

Vice President of Northeast Operations

“My lifelong career in construction started when I was 13 with labor work. At 14 I started to estimate volumes of concrete. I believe my work ethic and experience are the contributing factors to my professional growth. My favorite part of the job is being at a ribbon-cutting and seeing the residents ready to move into their new homes.”

With almost 30 years of experience in the construction industry, Marc has worked in every major market across the US. His wide-ranging portfolio includes public bid work in Michigan, high-end national restaurant chains, and multi-family residential projects. As Vice President of Northeast Operations, Marc leads NEI’s construction teams to ensure they are efficient, productive, and well-coordinated with the development team.

Marc donates his time to the Jamaica Plain Neighborhood Development Corporation (JPNDC) to assist minority business enterprises (MBE) and women-owned business enterprises (WBE). “Many of our projects are located throughout Boston and we feel it is important to give back to the communities in any way we can. JPNDC’s Small Contractors program gives us the opportunity to create employment opportunities for residents of these communities by encouraging small contractors to bid, win, and execute work in their neighborhoods.

With a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Wittenberg University, Marc is OSHA 10 certified.

Rich Ionelli

Vice President of Southeast Operations

“The most fulfilling thing for me is seeing a team of people come together, grow, work hard, and have fun. Our teams are willing to do anything we put in front of them and aren’t limited to any job profile or expectation of a certain role. To grow and learn with our team is the most rewarding part of my job.”

Rich joined NEI General Contracting in 2012 and in 2013, Rich moved to Florida to open NEI’s Southeast office. Since joining NEI he has served in positions of increasing responsibility, from project manager to director of construction operations and is currently serving as the vice president of the Southeast operations.

With over 24 years of construction experience, Rich currently oversees all aspects of NEI’s Southeast operations and leads all of the construction teams, from initial bid through completion. Rich oversees project team members that are directly involved in short and long-term projects in FL, TX, SC and WV including, but not limited to, project executives, project managers and superintendents.

Rich has worked in 26 states and his extensive expertise in construction management includes multi-family, senior housing, community centers, custom homes, restaurants and power plants. Rich also enforces project requirements and compliance with laws and regulations, troubleshoots problems, ensures job site safety on a daily basis, and manages the financial well-being of projects.

After successfully completing the National Association of State Contractors Licensing Agencies (NASCLA) exam, Rich is the qualifying agent in the states of Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, South Carolina, North Carolina, West Virginia and Virginia and is Level III PCI Quality Control certified.

Rich is a member of the American Society of Healthcare Engineering (ASHE), on the Building Construction Technologies Advisory Board for Orange Technical College and holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Massachusetts (UMASS) Dartmouth.

Mike Myers

Vice President of Southwest Operations

“Seeing a building go from design to finished product is every contractor’s passion, especially as you reflect on the level of complexity and coordination it took to complete that building. Although it’s not rocket science, not many understand the technical effort and commitment it takes to create a structure designed to provide a function and purpose for our customers. There is nothing more gratifying than driving past a building 10 years later, knowing you had a hand in creating it.”

As an accomplished engineer and seasoned construction professional with 28 years of experience, Mike brings a wealth of knowledge to each project he manages. He started his career as an engineer working in government defense design and development. Working with and coordinating multiple engineering disciplines and contractors through complex designs and manufacture provided the project management foundation he needed to become successful in the construction industry. His understanding of how and why issues arise coupled with having the insight and experience to develop solutions or alternatives enables Mike to make progress on a project, especially in renovation work, where unforeseen conditions are commonplace and require swift resolution to mitigate schedule and cost impact. His strong engineering background allows him to effectively communicate with architects and engineers while solving complex technical challenges, resulting in a smooth operation from start to finish. Mike is PMP Certified and an ASHE Trained Health Care Constructor.

Mike studied Engineering and Business Management at the University of Central Florida.

Benjamin Coulehan | LEED AP, CPHB

Director of Preconstruction

“At NEI, we’re building homes. With each project we complete, our work may be done, but that unit will serve as someone’s home for decades to come. We’re now building and renovating more durable, energy-efficient, and lasting projects. The work we’re putting in place now will last longer and have less of an environmental impact/footprint than ever before.”

As Director of Preconstruction, Benjamin’s primary focus is to ensure clear and comprehensive coordination between the design team and the construction team during project development and prior to the start of construction. He oversees NEI’s preconstruction and estimating teams and aids with project assessment, document coordination, detailed project scoping, and contract strategies. With over 28 years of experience, Benjamin spent the first half of his career as an architect before moving to construction.

Benjamin has been on all sides of the table and utilizes that breadth of experience to help all parties better communicate and work together. He finds this experience invaluable in his role at NEI and uses it as an opportunity to help translate and facilitate the conversation between developer, architect, and builder.

Benjamin is a Certified Passive House Builder (CPHB) and LEED Accredited Professional (AP) and earned a Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Jessica Morrissey | LEED AP, CPHB

Associate Director of Preconstruction

“I love being able to work with a diverse range of people and feel that the collaborative effect of preconstruction brings different ideas and problem-solving skills to the table which allows our company to successfully deliver quality projects for our clients.”

With a background in preconstruction and estimating, Jessica brings 19 years of experience, including affordable housing and multi-family. In her role as Associate Director of Preconstruction Services, she will ensure coordination between the design and construction teams during project development and the start of construction. Jessica will provide assistance with project assessment, document coordination, detailed project scoping, and contract strategies.

Jessica is a Certified Passive House Builder (CPHB) and a LEED Accredited Professional. In 2018 she was named a Women in Construction by the editorial board at Constructech Magazine for use of technology within a construction company.

Jaclyn Teixeira

Director of Risk Management

“I thrive on facing the wide range of risk management challenges presented each day. There is truly never a dull moment! Safety is our top priority at NEI, and I work closely with our safety team to help ensure that everyone returns home safely to their family and friends every day.”

With nearly 20 years of experience, Jaclyn brings a diverse background, including but not limited to, managing injury and property damage claims and litigation, incident investigations, and insurance coverage analysis. Jaclyn focuses her efforts on continuously assessing the operational risks of the organization, managing the company’s expansive insurance program, examining contractual risks, and overseeing subcontractor insurance compliance and surety bonds. Jaclyn works closely with NEI’s safety department, project management and field staff to evaluate loss prevention measures, provide support for training, and establish new protocols.

Jaclyn holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Northeastern University.

Shawn McGoff

Director of Safety

“I have worked in and around construction since I was 15 years old and over the years, I developed a healthy respect for on-the-job safety. I find my role as Safety Director with a general contractor both exciting and challenging. Just when you think you’ve seen everything; you realize you haven’t, and you have to always be on your toes.”

Shawn leads and manages the NEI safety program with a strategic plan to carry out a vision of the company’s ever-evolving safety culture. To achieve safety objectives, Shawn monitors all construction activities daily to ensure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) construction industry standards, NEI’s safety program, and project-specific safety plans. He empowers all personnel on-site with the authority to require the correction of any conditions which may increase the risk of injury or illness. Shawn takes a proactive approach by consistently working closely with project management in conjunction with field operations and risk management to ensure open lines of communication and collaboration across teams. He strives to drive change and accountability for safety by implementing new protocols, including but not limited to new standards for safety inspections. With a focus on the continuous development of training initiatives, safety orientations, and pre-activity planning, Shawn takes a collaborative approach to mitigating risk through safety awareness.

Shawn is a Construction Health and Safety Technician (CHST) and a Certified Safety and Health Official (CSHO).

Ryan Sullivan

Director of Legal

“I love knowing that my input and advice will help your project staff meet their goals of providing quality homes to our customers and future residents.”

Ryan brings over 19 years of experience providing counsel to construction companies of all sizes. In his role as Director of Legal, he provides legal counsel to company management across all departments and coordinates with outside counsel relative to pending disputes and litigation. Further, Ryan acts as a strategic advisor to company executives and managers by providing advice and oversight in numerous areas including, but not limited to: contract drafting and negotiation, project disputes, human resources, ethics, privacy, regulatory compliance, and accounts payable/accounts receivable.

Ryan is a member of the ABA Forum on Construction, Massachusetts Real Estate Bar Association. He earned his J.D. degree from The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law and his B.S., magna cum laude, from Stonehill College. While an undergraduate, he majored in Russian Studies and is proficient in the Russian language. He is admitted in to practice law in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Virginia, Maryland and the District of Columbia.

André Barbour

Diversity and Inclusion Director

“The ability to foster new and established relationships to create access and opportunities for diverse businesses and workers in the construction industry motivates me every day. Community engagement and relationships are an important part of my role. Building long term relationships with diverse businesses and workers is essential to building a more equitable industry.”

As NEI’s Diversity and Inclusion Director, André supports project management, project owners/developers, subcontractors, and other programs and organizations with compliance requirements on each project. André brings a solid foundation in community engagement and workforce development through working in various neighborhoods in Boston while monitoring and overseeing diverse worker and business participation. With 12 years of experience, André supports NEI’s efforts to enhance diverse business and workforce utilization. André’s efforts allow NEI to participate more fully in the community and economic development interests of the company’s clients and the communities where they do business.

André is actively involved with Project R.I.G.H.T. Incorporated, Massachusetts Minority Contractors Association, and the MPDC Train 2 Trades Program. He serves on the Program Advisory Committee for Facilities Maintenance at Madison Park Technical Vocational High School and is a member of the MHIC Racial Equity and Inclusion Committee.

Melissa Baldwin | SHRM-CP

Senior Manager of People Operations

“Employees are a company’s greatest asset and the most fulfilling part of my role is the ability to be a resource for employees at NEI.”

Melissa has 10 years of experience in human resources and was most recently the director of HR for a local non-profit organization. In her role as Senior Manager of People Operations, Melissa assists in the planning, development, and coordination of the organization’s policies and activities ensuring legal compliance and the provision of a proactive, efficient, and effective HR support service. She is also responsible for the implementation of HR strategies and their integration into the organization’s mission. Melissa assists in the development and maintenance of an employee orientated company culture that emphasizes quality, continuous improvement, and high performance.

She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Management from Eastern Nazarene College and a Master of Business Administration from UMass Dartmouth. She is a SHRM Certified Professional and a member of the Southcoast Human Resources Council.

Bill Young

Senior General Superintendent

“In addition to supporting our team to keep up the momentum on projects, meet completion dates, and allow residents to move in when needed, I pride myself on my ability to build relationships with owners, subcontractors, and field staff to help support them along the way throughout a project. I focus on understanding the customers’ expectations, in order to improve our services and meet their specific project goals.”

As a General Superintendent with 29 years of experience, Bill brings a critical construction eye to the preconstruction process. He has tremendous experience building projects ranging from museums to mills to rehabilitations on all types of sites, both complex urban and open. Bill’s primary focus is the analysis of the civil, structural, and MEP scopes of work to ensure the efficient constructability of the project. He also assists with the development of site logistics and operations strategies to ensure swift and efficient completion of the project.

Bill holds numerous certifications that enable him to support NEI clients, including Boston Builders License-ABC, Cambridge Builder’s License, Mass Construction Supervisors License, Hazwopper 40, Lead Safe Renovator’s Supervisors License, Trench and Excavation Competent Person Certification, and Crane Rigging and Signal Certification.

Bill earned a Bachelor of Science in Building Construction from the Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Chris Burke | CPHB

General Superintendent

“My expertise is sequence and schedule. Every project offers different challenges and opportunities to get creative. Because each project is different it’s important that the team utilize creativity to advance construction while dealing with job-specific project challenges that aren’t necessarily your typical challenge.”

Chris’ interest in construction was sparked when he was a freshman in high school and offered to help a local carpenter working on his family’s home. With 26 years of experience, Chris has tremendous experience building projects ranging from luxury high-density multi-family developments to occupied rehabilitation on all types of sites, both complex urban and open. Chris’ primary focus is the analysis of the civil, structural, and MEP scopes of work to ensure the efficient constructability and coordination of the project. He assists with the development of site logistics, operations strategies, and sequencing to ensure swift and efficient completion of the project.

Chris is a Certified Passive House Builder (CPHB).

He earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Business Administration in Project Management from Southern New Hampshire University.

Chris Cormier

Senior Executive

“For new construction, I like the feeling of walking through a structure which didn’t exist just 12 to 14 months earlier. I enjoy complex renovation projects and it’s rewarding to walk through at the end of the project with the team to appreciate the result.”

As a Senior Executive, Chris brings over 40 years of experience with complex projects and he leverages that experience to organize and execute the project and trades for maximum construction and cost-efficiency. Chris is an excellent resource in the preconstruction environment and very skilled at helping to steer project scope development, document development, and project scheduling and phasing.

Chris served in the United States Air Force as a Technical Sergeant (E6) and was trained as a mechanic.

Antonio Tenreiro | LEED AP

Project Executive

“I enjoy the opportunity to teach and mentor folks on many different aspects of the building process. It is satisfying to see a plan come together to create something new. Seeing the final occupants of the building in the new space brings the satisfaction of a job done well.”

With a master’s degree in Community Planning, Tony wrote his thesis on the U.S. housing finance policy, giving him a unique perspective on the development of multifamily projects. With 28 years in the construction industry, Tony has worked in major markets across the country building a portfolio of multimillion-dollar projects in both multifamily new construction and rehabilitation. He leverages his experience to help the development team plot cost-effective and expeditious paths from start to successful completion. Tony’s ability to build strong relationships with stakeholders during the preconstruction phase establishes the positive working relationship that extends well past construction completion.

A LEED Accredited Professional (AP), Tony earned a Bachelor of Sciences in Applied Quantitative Economics and a Master of Science in Community Planning and Housing Economics from the University of Rhode Island.

Wendell Orton

Project Executive

“I am passionate about mentoring inexperienced construction professionals and enjoy passing along my knowledge of the construction process to my team at NEI and our valued subcontracting partners. The continuing evolution of new techniques and technologies in the building process gives us an opportunity on every project to expand our knowledge and share best practices.”

Wendell has 35 years of experience in the multi-family construction industry and specializes in the rehabilitation of senior and low-income housing ranging from walk-ups to 25-story mid-rise buildings. He also has experience with the restoration and repurposing of existing historic buildings, and the ability to expand market share in new territories up and down the East Coast.

Wendell studied Construction Management at Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Alex Mahegan | LEED AP, CPHB

Project Executive

“I enjoy collaborating with team members to solve challenges and facilitating projects and helping to anticipate problems before they become problems. Sharing knowledge, work practices, and experience with younger team members to help them grow and become more effective in their roles is so rewarding.”

With nearly 30 years in the construction industry, Alex brings extensive experience with complex multi-family construction projects ranging from $3 million to $130 million. He leverages that experience to organize and execute the project and trades for maximum construction and cost-efficiency. Alex’s strong relationships with architects, engineers, and subcontractors ensure a smooth operation from preconstruction to completion. Alex is involved with the preconstruction process to assist with the definition of project scope, document development, and project scheduling and phasing.

A LEED Accredited Professional (AP) and Certified Passive House Builder (CPHB), Alex also holds a Construction Supervisor License.

Alex earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Massachusetts (UMASS) Amherst.

Brian Porter

Project Executive

“The most rewarding part of my job is utilizing my experience to mentor the less experienced project managers and superintendents and developing a team of management and subcontractors to fulfill a common goal.”

With 37 years of experience in the construction industry, Brian brings a wealth of knowledge to each project he manages. He specializes in multi-family housing of all kinds: new construction, mod-rehab, and historical conversion. Brian leverages that experience to organize and execute each project and trades for maximum construction and cost-efficiency. Brian assists with the definition of project scope, document development, and project scheduling and phasing.

He holds a Construction Supervisor’s License and an Associate in Architectural Engineering from Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Brandt Wajda | CPHB

Project Executive

“I am drawn to the unknown of how my day will unfold. In construction, you need to be flexible yet determined to address the curveballs we encounter on a regular basis. I find it very satisfying to work with owners and architects from conception to closeout.”

With over 15 years of experience in surveying/civil engineering and construction, Brandt brings a wealth of practical and technical knowledge to each project he manages. Starting his professional career as an estimator reinforced that attention to detail and accuracy required in preparing and reviewing the work daily is essential to a project’s success. He is well versed in the complexities and sensitivities of historic renovations, including such notable projects as Old South Church and Trinity Church. Brandt has built strong trusting relationships with NEI’s clients through his leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.

He is a Certified Passive House Builder (CPHB), MA CSL, Keolis RWP, Lead-Safe Renovator Supervisor, and a Certified Moderate Risk Owner/Agent Deleader.

Brandt earned a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Massachusetts (UMASS) at Dartmouth.

Marisa Somers | LEED AP, CPHB

Project Executive

“It has always been so rewarding to see buildings that I have been a part of stand the test of time and be utilized and enjoyed by so many different people. Makes all the hard work worth it!”

With nearly 20 years of experience in the construction industry, Marisa brings extensive knowledge as well as a pragmatic approach to every project she manages. Her vast experience ranges from new school construction, college renovations, food service renovations, Army Corps of Engineers projects, to multi-family residential construction. Through her leadership, she works to utilize the strengths of each individual team member in order to organize and execute projects and trades to achieve maximum construction and cost efficiency.

Marisa is a LEED AP and a PHIUS Certified Builder℠. Marisa earned a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management from Wentworth Institute of Technology.

Bill Novick | CPHB

PROJECT EXECUTIVE

“I appreciate the opportunity to mentor younger or less experienced team members, as this helps me to continue to develop my communication and problem-solving skills. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing my team members confidently make effective and efficient decisions that benefit the entire project.”

Coming from a long career in electromechanical engineering, Bill brings a wealth of knowledge to each project he manages. From a hands-on time period correct, post and beam historic renovation to the first large scale passive house apartment building in Massachusetts, Bill strives to anticipate constructability issues before they become financial problems. His strong engineering background allows him to effectively communicate with team members, architects, and engineers while solving complex technical challenges.

He is a Lead-Safe Renovation Supervisor, and a Certified Passive House Builder (CPHB), Bill also holds a Construction Supervisors License.

Bill studied Corporate Management at Providence College as well as Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at The University of Massachusetts Boston.