C.W. Driver Companies, a premier builder serving California since 1919, has promoted Richard Freeark, LEED AP®, to chief operating officer (COO), the company announced today.

As COO, Freeark is responsible for the company’s operational oversight and client satisfaction for projects statewide, including training and performance strategies, contract negotiations, staffing, scheduling, financial controls, reporting and closeout for all projects.

“Richard has been invaluable to the success of C.W. Driver Companies over the years, and his leadership adds tremendous value to our company, now and into the future,” said Dana Roberts, chief executive officer. “His steadfast commitment to his team and clients, diligence in getting every detail right and strong desire to exceed expectations shines through on every project in which he is involved.”

With nearly four decades of construction industry experience, Freeark has spearheaded major projects for C.W. Driver Companies including the University of California, Irvine Alumni Center; Alpine Branch Library; Ramona Branch Library; Fallbrook Branch Library; Belmont Village’s Belmont Senior Living Westwood; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center’s Steven Spielberg Building Wet Lab; Valley Presbyterian Hospital; Kaiser Medical Center Riverside; Qualcomm’s SAN.Q Addition and Hollywood Casino Jamul. He also plays a key role on a host of higher education and K-12 projects across California. Prior to the COO role, Freeark served as senior vice president of C.W. Driver Companies.

“In my 15 years at C.W. Driver Companies, I continue to be extremely impressed with the caliber of work the company touches across a wide range of industries,” said Freeark. “I am honored to take on this new role as the company continues to excel in markets throughout California with a diverse project portfolio.”

Freeark holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and finance from California State University, Northridge. He is based in San Diego.