THE BLACKSTONE TEAM
John Rutherford
President of Blackstone construction
John, a native of Birmingham, graduated magna cum laude from Auburn University with a Building Science Degree. After several internships with Brasfield & Gorrie, Robins & Morton, and a non-profit contractor in Wellington, New Zealand, John continued his career in Dallas, Texas and Macon, Georgia.
Prior to joining our team, John served Robins & Morton in various roles in project management, estimating, and field supervision in their Healthcare and Hospitality divisions.
As Director of Commercial Construction for Blackstone, John looks to target Birmingham's growing market in adaptive reuse, historic remodels, multi-family, and high-end boutique office and retail projects. In his spare time, John enjoys spending time with his wife, traveling, and playing golf.
Jeff Brown
Vice president of blackstone construction
Jeff has spent 28 years in residential construction. Previously with Acton Building Corporation and Distinctive Builders, he leads residential construction for Narnia. Jeff Attended UAB and CKM School of Real Estate and is a Licensed Alabama Homebuilder, Member of National Association of Home Builders and a Member of National Association of Realtors.
When Jeff isn’t building homes, his hobbies include motocross, water and snow skiing with his family.
Jake Cole
Project Manager
Growing up Jake was no stranger to construction and home projects. An avid love of art and Legos combined with neighbors in the construction business, Jake was always drawn to the process of building and architecture. Jake attended the University of Alabama where he earned a bachelor's degree in Education. However, after college Jake wanted to return to his love of building and accepted a job as Assistant Project Manager at Argo Building where he was exposed to commercial construction and real estate. In 2017 Jake decided to expand his horizons to both residential and commercial construction making the move to Narnia Construction. While he may spend his days on a jobsite instead of in a classroom environment, he puts his Education degree to work by communicating and leading with an experienced and qualified team at Narnia.
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When Jake is not on the jobsite you can find him spending time with his wife Brett and his bloodhound puppy Dixie. Jake enjoys renovating his house in Homewood, spending time at the beach, finding the best breweries in town, and cheering on the Crimson Tide in the fall.
Chris Bartlett
Equipment Manager
Chris is a native of Birmingham and served 5 years in the United States Marine Corps where he specialized in aviation. During his service, he worked in Quality Assurance and is certified in hydraulic systems, fiberglass and carbon repair as well as paint and corrosion repairs. Chris also has a background in Land Management and when he’s not managing the fleet and equipment for Narnia, he enjoys restoring antique cars and trucks, hunting and enjoying the outdoors.
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