What makes or breaks a multi-million-dollar capital project?
In today’s episode, we sat down with Jim Brill, Managing Director of the Construction and Real Estate Practice at EY to uncover what it takes to be successful in large-scale investment projects. With over 30 years of experience, Jim has advised a variety of stakeholders on capital projects across multiple industries. His leadership in consulting and expertise in project management have made him a key figure in the industry.
In our conversation, we find out how he got started in the industry, what his current role entails, and hear what makes EY unique in the construction and real-estate space. We also unpack how EY serves clients from the ground up to execution and its approach to integrating the entire business and owner objectives into a project.
Explore the various ways a large-scale project can fail, how EY supports the mission of its clients, and the various sectors it operates in. And discover why good leaders are vital for effective risk management, the difference between perception and perspective, the steps to fostering a healthy work culture, the importance of communication, and more.
Tune in now!
Key Points From This Episode:
• Learn how to navigate the needs of the business with nuances of design and construction.
• Learn the fundamentals of setting a project up for success from its inception.
• How to gain an understanding of an entire project and the different teams involved.
Quotes:
“In my business, we have to sell internally to your account partners and then be able to get a good conversation [going] with the account themselves.” — Jim Brill
“I think that it takes good leaders to be able to execute risk management appropriately.” — Jim Brill
“Put in the hard work early and often, and it is going to pay dividends.” — Jim Brill
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
What is Leadership Blueprints?
Leadership Blueprints is a podcast dedicated to helping leaders align teams, navigate chaos, and accomplish the mission. Hosted by BJ Kraemer—West Point graduate, combat veteran, and President & CEO of MCFA—this show dives into the principles, stories, and strategies behind effective leadership.
With a background in military service and experience leading teams in business, infrastructure, and complex projects, BJ understands that success comes down to execution, adaptability, and leading people well. Through in-depth interviews with accomplished leaders across business, sports, the military, and beyond, Leadership Blueprints will help you bring your vision to reality on projects that shape communities and industries.
Whether you’re leading in the boardroom, on the field, in the military, or within your own organization, this podcast is designed to provide the tools and mindset needed to lead with clarity, resilience, and purpose. Subscribe now and start building your Leadership Blueprint.