We had the opportunity to engage in a stimulating conversation with Matt Craine, Adam Fagnaniand Chet Jobert, dynamic team members from our New York City-based Consulting and Design practice. Discussing the challenges and triumphs of flourishing in the heart of the Big Apple, they enlightened us about the substantial impact Resource Options, Inc. (ROI) is making in NYC.
1. Tell us about the history of your office and how NYC is different than other ROI offices?
Our team is the CAD (Consulting and Design) division, originally launched with a focus on the construction sector. Prior to the onset of COVID-19, we made a strategic decision to widen our focus to include the entire AEC. Today, we collaborate with leading construction, design and environmental companies.
Since then, we've experienced consistent growth, year after year, in terms of both gross profit and the number of clients we collaborate with. The pivotal move from Long Island City to Midtown Manhattan significantly underscored our commitment to this growth. Not only because a multitude of companies we partner with are headquartered in Manhattan, but also because businesses from other boroughs find themselves drawn into the city for prospective partnerships.
In New York, the rhythm of business operates at a unique pace. The city that never sleeps demands a swift tempo and a quick turnaround time. Yet, at the heart of ROI, we thrive on delivering against these expectations.
What we've learned from our experience is that New York-based companies hold a special regard for fellow city-based businesses. As we navigate the bustling streets of New York, our mission at ROI is always centered on forging solid relationships. While we recruit talent both locally and from other regions, being physically present in the city provides us with an unparalleled opportunity to better connect with clients and potential candidates. The proximity encourages engagement, fostering stronger connections that serve to benefit all parties involved.
2. How do you source top talent in the AEC industries?
We're searching for an intriguing combination of strategies, striving to strike a balance between the opportunities candidates seek and the needs of our clients. Our focus is on delivering a compelling value proposition, a unique offering designed to distinguish our candidates in the market. In addition, our goal is to source top talent. We recognize that simply approaching them isn't enough; it requires fostering genuine relationships. ROI aims to satisfy both sides (candidates and clients) by seeking out individuals with the right skill set.
3. What positions fall under ROI’s consulting and design practice and how do you ensure they are qualified?
We provide qualified AEC and Environmental professionals for the following disciplines:
- Site/Civil Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Land Survey
- Geotechnical
- Structural Engineering (Vertical)
- Structural Engineering (Bridge)
- Transportation Engineering (Highway, Bridge, Traffic)
- MEP Engineering
- Environmental Consulting
- Construction Management
- Architecture
As for how we ensure our candidates are qualified, we believe in consistency and quality across our processes. Our process consists of initial screenings, setting up phone calls, meeting with them in-person, understanding what is and isn’t on your resume, checking references, and connecting to assess their reliability and communication.
We are solely dedicated to our focus areas, yet every individual we recruit and every team member at ROI aligns seamlessly with this focus, continually advancing their knowledge in a cohesive and coordinated manner.
4. What are ROI’s candidates looking for in an employer?
This perception is largely influenced by the individual, transcending what industry they are in. Candidates are typically in pursuit of equitable compensation and potential for growth, as well as the value of the relationships we nurture during the process. They rely on us to navigate the job market effectively, acting as an ally and teammate in their quest to find the perfect fit. Recognizable company names often sell themselves, but occasionally there are lesser-known employers that we must introduce to potential candidates.
In addition, prospective employees are increasingly prioritizing company culture. It's less about merely earning a paycheck, and more about the overall experience and atmosphere the workplace provides. They are interested in how it feels to work for the company, requiring us to vividly paint the picture of their potential professional life within the organization.
5. What is the culture at the NYC office vs. all of ROI?
Throughout my experiences with ROI, I've observed this organization to steadfastly stand by its people, nurturing their growth and development. Navigating the tumultuous times of the COVID-19 pandemic, ROI demonstrated remarkable responsibility, ensuring the well-being of every employee. They have always placed people first, maintaining a strong work ethic that sets the foundation for success. Those who excel at ROI are individuals who put people first and also commit deeply to their work.
ROI's empowering nature has constantly inspired me to contribute with full diligence here in the NYC office. Our office, with its startup mentality, was newly established in 2020, and we were immediately met with the challenge of survival during the pandemic. Yet, we resiliently battled through the years 2021 and 2022, persistently striving for a breakthrough. Today, we are making significant strides, chipping away at our ambitious goals and witnessing significant progress.
In New York, we've seamlessly integrated a scrappier startup ethos. A strong belief pervades our work: if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere. This has guided us in forging our unique path. Our team is dedicated to hard work and balanced by a culture of playing hard as well. We relish our victories, creating an engaging and enjoyable office environment characterized by friendly banter and camaraderie. Our "people first" attitude is truly at the center of everything we do.
When it comes to getting the job done, putting people to work and making our clients happy, the team buckles down with unmatched focus. Success is celebrated from the ground up, with every victory, big or small, acknowledged and praised by our top leaders, which is so rare. The wins are echoed throughout the organization, building morale and personal empowerment among the staff.
The leadership of our presidents, Bryan Quinn, and Jeff Bryant, is both exceptional and inspiring. They are actively involved in every operation, rolling up their sleeves and leading by example. Their passion for what they do, undimmed over two decades, is a powerful testament to their commitment to ROI and its people.
Connect with Matt Craine and Chet Jobert for all your CAD staffing needs!
ABOUT ROI
RESOURCE OPTIONS, INC. (ROI) is a full-service construction, design, environmental services staffing and emergency response firm. Founded in 1998, ROI provides customized staffing solutions to clients servicing the built and natural environment. Recognized on five different occasions by Inc. Magazine as one of “America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies”, ROI demonstrates a proven ability to deliver highly qualified candidates in a timely fashion.
Check out our available positions and apply today! http://www.resourceoptions.com/about-roi/careers-at-roi
