KAI has hired Tim Vaughan as Senior Vice President of KAI Build, strengthening the firm’s construction leadership as it continues to expand its national footprint and integrated design-build capabilities.
KAI Build delivers general contracting, construction management and design-build services as part of KAI’s unified platform, working seamlessly with the firm’s architecture and engineering teams to provide fully integrated project delivery.
Vaughan is a senior construction executive with more than 25 years of experience leading operations, program delivery and business growth across complex commercial projects nationwide. He has a proven track record of delivering more than $1.3 billion in construction, scaling organizations from startup to $100 million-plus in annual revenue, and driving operational excellence through leadership, client relationships and strategic execution.
“Tim is a proven leader with a deep understanding of what it takes to build and scale high-performing construction teams,” said Paul Giacoletto, president of KAI Build. “His experience across complex projects and his commitment to operational excellence align directly with where we are headed as a business. As we continue to grow KAI Build, Tim will play a critical role in strengthening our operations, enhancing client relationships and delivering consistent, high-quality results.”
Prior to joining KAI, Vaughan led companywide construction operations and directed project managers and superintendents as vice president of operations at Wright Construction Services in St. Peters, Missouri. His career also includes roles as project executive for Daikin TMI, vice president at Green Street Building Group and project executive at PARIC Corporation, all based in St. Louis.
“I am pleased to join KAI and be part of an organization known for its integrated approach to design, engineering and construction, as well as its commitment to Transforming Communities,” said Vaughan. “KAI’s mission-driven culture aligns closely with my leadership philosophy, centered on disciplined execution, strong client relationships and delivering measurable results. I have always believed that leadership is about adding value to others, and I look forward to supporting our teams, strengthening partnerships and helping ensure predictable, high-quality outcomes for our clients.”
Signature projects in Vaughan’s portfolio include:
- Enterprise Center (formerly Scottrade Center) sports arena renovation and building systems upgrades – $30 Million
- Center for Advanced Skills Training in Law Enforcement in O’Fallon, Missouri — $24 million
- Ballpark Village expansion in St. Louis — $220 million
- USPS Distribution Center renovation in Atlanta — $23 million
- Terra Apartments (307 units) in St. Louis — $55 million
Vaughan holds a Bachelor of Science in construction engineering from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
KAI Build continues to grow its presence across key markets nationwide, strengthening its construction capabilities within KAI’s integrated delivery model. The addition of Vaughan reflects the firm’s investment in experienced leadership to support continued growth, enhance operational performance and deliver consistent, high-quality outcomes for clients.