On August 2, 2024, Eugene “Pepi” Randolph retired from Greenfire Management Services, a company he helped create.
In 2007, Randolph joined what is now known as Potawatomi Ventures, formerly the Potawatomi Business Development Corp., following his appointment by then
Governor Doyle as the president of Forward Wisconsin (what is now WEDC). In 2009, he was named CEO of the Development Corp., and led the organization to seek out investment opportunities for the Forest County Potawatomi Community to further diversify its revenue streams beyond gaming through either buying or building companies. When the first hotel tower of the Potawatomi Casino | Hotel was being discussed with outside consultants, the investment team believed they could build an internal team of experts to provide the same services. In effect, creating a double-bottom line return for the Tribe. Thus, the creation of Greenfire as a construction management firm in 2010 to not only build the Tribe’s projects, but to also build projects for other companies, owners, and developers throughout the State of Wisconsin.
“Pepi has a great sense of pride and history with the firm. He served as CEO for Potawatomi Ventures, the parent company of Greenfire, from 2009-2013. Pepi was instrumental in building our case for starting Greenfire—the company is here today because of his leadership, persistence, and vision.” Kip Ritchie, CEO of Potawatomi Ventures said, “He has always been a loyal advocate for the tribe and has represented our organization well through the years. I am incredibly grateful for his leadership and friendship and wish him all the best in his retirement. I know he will remain a friend of Greenfire, Potawatomi Ventures and the Forest County Potawatomi Community.”
After a short time away from the organization, Randolph returned in 2018 to lead the business development efforts of Greenfire. He was responsible for building a team, generating opportunities and continuing to help the firm penetrate various market sectors, including office, senior living, hospitality, commercial, tribal, and multi-family, as well as establishing a strong reputation in the construction industry.
“He is always encouraging our entire team to wear their ‘BD hat’ and help uncover the next project,” Jeb Meier, president, Greenfire. “His roots, efforts, and relationships laid a great foundation that our company can build on.”
Randolph’s background includes two undergraduate degrees (Journalism and History) and a legal degree, all from UW-Madison (where he was also the captain of the UW Baseball Team), sales for Proctor & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, investment banking with M&I Bank, and Assistant General Counsel for The Milwaukee Brewers. He is a member of the Wisconsin Club, was named a Notable BIPOC Executive from the BizTimes in 2023, former president of the W Club, former Chairman of the Board for Delta Dental, and a 2019 inductee into the University School of Milwaukee Athletic Hall of Fame.
Passing the torch to the next leader
Greenfire recently hired Chris Kyte as Vice President of Project Development to help oversee business development and marketing. Kyte brings over 20 years of experience in the construction industry focusing on the preconstruction and operations of the business. He will work with the team to execute a transition in department leadership from Randolph. Kyte has extensive experience in affordable
housing developments, healthcare and corporate construction projects. Prior to joining Greenfire, Chris worked at Commonwealth Companies and Mortenson Construction.
“His ability to listen and connect with people make Chris an asset to Greenfire,” says Jeb Meier, president, Greenfire. “We were lucky to have the opportunity for Chris to join the team. His experience and capabilities are a welcome addition to our team.”