Emmer Development Corporation President Ryan McGriff credits the skills he developed playing quarterback for the University of Florida Gators as the foundation for his professional success.
McGriff grew up attending games at The Swamp. His dream was to someday play football there like his father, grandfather and older cousins. The work ethic he possess today stems from the grit and determination he developed achieving that goal.
Emmer Family Owned & Operated
The 29-year-old is the third generation to run the family business started in 1954. His grandfather Phil Emmer founded the business and was a pioneer in the pursuit of affordable housing.
McGriff’s mother, Lori Emmer Cain, led the company for 20 years. She had a passion to provide homes for the community that she loved and an atmosphere where employees were treated as family members.
READ MORE: FIERCE AWARDS TO CREATE THE LORI EMMER CAIN LEGACY AWARD
The Gainesville-based company has been responsible for more than 8,000 homes and apartments in more than 100 communities all over Florida.
McGriff joined the company as a laborer within months of receiving his bachelor’s degree. He learned his way through the building process. He said the experience of being involved in construction firsthand provided a greater appreciation for that side of the business.
McGriff became an assistant superintendent and then superintendent, working closely with his mother. Her death earlier this year has given new meaning to McGriff’s work as he carries out her legacy. His two younger brothers are also involved, with one planning to move back this year to manage construction.
Lugano – Building Dreams
McGriff oversees construction of Lugano, a traditional single-family home development with more than 400 homes in Southwest Gainesville. Lori Emmer Cain worked tirelessly to bring this project to fruition.
An idyllic resort-style community, the neighborhood is surrounded by walking trails. It will feature a clubhouse with numerous amenities, including a pool, splash park, fitness center, tennis courts, basketball courts and even a dog park. McGriff calls Lugano “closest to his heart” as he strives to keep her vision for that community at the forefront of his daily business decisions.
McGriff gets the most satisfaction out of seeing families enjoy the homes Emmer creates.
“Many of our customers are first-time homebuyers. There is no greater reward than the smiles and pure joy you see when you hand them the keys to their home,” he said.
Prioritize Relationships
In managing nearly 70 employees, McGriff draws from Lori’s compassionate leadership style.
“It helps to be knowledgeable, but what matters most in this industry is relationships — both internally and externally,” McGriff said.
The Gainesville native believes the positive culture of mutual respect his mother created is the reason some employees have stayed for more than 20 years. He feels fortunate to have a solid team with expertise, particularly CEO Orianna Snook.
McGriff thinks his ability to listen and adapt to any situation are his most valuable characteristics in the business world. His best advice to other young professionals is not to follow a career solely for the compensation.
“Chase your passion and your happiness,” McGriff said. “The money will come if you work hard and love what you do.”
By Jennifer Kennedy.