CMAA Appoints Kevin D. Watkins as President, CEO

The Construction Management Association of America Board of Directors has appointed Kevin D. Watkins, SPHR, CAE, as CMAA’s next president and CEO, effective Nov. 16.

Watkins is an accomplished association executive with experience leading large, complex membership organizations. He serves as chief operating officer of the American Institute of Architects, where he oversees a $45 million-plus portfolio serving more than 101,000 members and 200-plus chapters. His leadership has contributed to record membership growth, a 90% renewal rate and stronger alignment between national priorities and chapter investment.

Earlier in his career, Watkins held senior roles with the National Apartment Association, American Institute of Physics and the National Association of REALTORS, where he led federation strategy, chapter and affiliate relations, membership development, business transformation and revenue growth. He holds an MBA from Baylor University and a bachelor’s degree in management and human relations from Trevecca Nazarene University. He is a Certified Association Executive and a Senior Professional in Human Resources.

As president and CEO, Watkins will lead CMAA’s work to complete and implement its new strategic plan, strengthen chapters as the center of member engagement, expand recognition of the CCM, CACM, and CMIT credentials and elevate CMAA’s voice with owners, government, industry partners and the broader AEC community. He will also guide CMAA’s response to emerging technologies and workforce needs affecting the profession of construction and program management.

CMAA extends its sincere appreciation to Interim president and CEO David Leckey for his steady leadership and service during this transition and for helping ensure continuity for CMAA’s staff, members, chapters and volunteer leaders.