Each month, BH features a different member of our wildly awesome Executive Team. In this Q&A format, they share thoughts on their role, their career, and the direction of the company in their own words. This month, we are excited to highlight Mike Watkins, Senior Vice President, Construction.
What is the biggest challenge you’re currently facing? How will you overcome it?
Navigating the ever-changing construction cycle in multifamily! High interest rates, multifamily inventory, rising costs for property insurance, rising supply costs, and the labor shortage are just a few external factors that lead to changes in strategy for the BH Construction (BHC) team.
Communication is the best way to overcome these challenges that are outside of our control. Business plans or strategy changes are now happening more rapidly than we have historically seen. I am continually impressed with how well the BHC is at communicating internally and collaborating with our different departments as well as externally with clients, partners, and suppliers.
What is something you are most proud of working for BH?
In my nine years of working for BH, I have experienced an incredible adventure. I have seen the company grow from roughly 45,000 apartment homes to what it is today, over 100,000. I am part of a company always focused on innovation and evolving with new technology. But of course, it’s the people, too! My direct team, my peers, and all the amazing departments lead to productive collaboration on a daily basis.
How have you been involved with BH’s United Way efforts?
BH has many opportunities to give back, but I am grateful for the opportunity to be a co-chair of the United Way Campaign since 2022. This campaign is important to BH, its employees, and outstanding vendors who recognize the importance of making a significant impact in the future lives of others by building strong communities. I am proud to say we have raised $604,000 for this program since 2019.
I‘m looking forward to this year’s campaign, coming up October 28- November 1, and hitting our goal of $140,000 to improve the health, education, and economic mobility of people in the communities we serve.
What is your favorite BH value, and why?
It is important to me, both personally and professionally, to always lead with honesty and transparency. Knowing that BH built its reputation on “doing business the right way” for 30+ years makes this my favorite company value.
What “keeps you up at night”?
Well, for those who know about PCM, my base floor is a Thinker, and with that trait comes overthinking.
“Did I handle that the best way?”
“What could I have done differently?”
“Am I communicating not enough or too much?”
“What should I make the kids for lunch tomorrow?”
What helps you sleep at night? (In other words, what things help you handle the everyday challenges of your position?).
I am surrounded by great people and wonderful teams that provide tremendous support! No matter what the issue is, I realize that we will be able to work through it together.
What do you like to do in your free time to relax?
To me, relaxing means staying active! I enjoy spending time with my kids or being outdoors, which includes working out, swimming, hiking, golfing, and, of course, lots of pickleball!