Bryan Henson: Fall Back, Spring Forward

President

Allen Construction, Santa Barbara, Calif.

Age 38

To avoid layoffs in 2010, Bryan Henson, then the company’s general manager, asked management to take a 10 percent pay cut and the rest of the employees to agree to a 5 percent cut. The plan worked, and by year’s end everyone received a bonus, essentially reimbursing them for their sacrifices.

Determined to stay ahead of the struggling economy, Bryan also led the effort to establish a building performance division, Allen Energy, which broadened the company’s service offerings and brought repeat business and referrals.

Parallel efforts gained niche clients such as insurance remodels, prefab housing, passive house, and rainwater catchment systems. Since Bryan took over as president in 2012, the company has grown from a $15 million residential business to a $40 million business serving a much larger geographical area with five divisions, including a new commercial arm. Bryan’s tenacity turned a dim time for Allen Construction into a profitable and stable era, introducing diverse competencies that will help shield the company from economic fluctuations. 

Read more about the 2015 Professional Remodeler 40 Under 40 awardees.