Branch Group Gets New CEO

Roanoke-based The Branch Group, one of the largest general contractors in the Mid-Atlantic, has selected J. William Karbach as CEO to replace James C. Harrison, IV, who has retired.

Branch, which has five operating companies, also promoted two senior executives to new corporate positions as part of its leadership transition strategy. Steve Aud was promoted to COO of Branch and Larry Dickenson, to executive VP.

Aud, a 29-year veteran of the Branch organization, has been president of Branch & Associates. In his new role, Aud is responsible for guiding the overall direction of each company and mentoring leaders.

Dickenson will continue as president of R. E. Daffan Inc., a contractor based in Northern Virginia, while assuming the responsibility for business development and external relations for The Branch Group. He has 26 years experience with Branch.

The company’s growth and Harrison’s retirement created the need for two new executive positions. “With this reorganization at the corporate level, the Branch Group is well positioned to continue its growth,” said Harrison.