Who We Are

At Kennedy Builders, we take a collaborative approach to every project. Our team brings together practical building expertise, strong operational knowledge, and a shared commitment to high-quality outcomes. We work across residential and small commercial building, heritage restoration, and insurance reinstatement projects, always prioritising sustainable and thoughtful construction practices.

We understand that building or restoring a home can be a significant moment for our clients — whether creating something new or repairing a property after unexpected damage. That’s why we approach every project with care, transparency, and respect for the people and spaces we work with.

Leadership Team

Sophie

General Manager – People and Finance

Sophie brings a strong technical and operational background to the business, with a degree in Chemical Engineering and more than 12 years’ experience in the civil construction industry.

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Her career has spanned operations management, health and safety leadership, and environmental and sustainability management across large infrastructure and construction supply chain and projects.

Sophie has a particular interest in advancing sustainable building practices and environmentally responsible construction, with a focus on reducing environmental impact while maintaining efficiency and high-quality outcomes.

Joe

General Manager – Operations

Joe is a licensed builder (and all-round great guy) who hails from the green pastures of County Carlow in Ireland. He began his career in Ireland, where he developed a strong foundation in traditional craftsmanship and building techniques.

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His experience spans heritage restoration work on historic listed buildings in Ireland, large commercial construction projects in Melbourne, post-earthquake rebuild work in Christchurch, and residential construction. Over time, Joe also worked in decorating management, quantity surveying, and operations management, giving him a well-rounded understanding of both the practical and management sides of construction.

Joe has a particular passion for heritage restoration and thoughtful building practices that respect traditional methods while embracing modern features and sustainable construction.

Office Staff

Phil

Insurance Project Foreman

Phil’s a Nelson local and he ensures a quality service for all our clients. Phil champions our values and he’s an all-round good joker.

Claire

Office Administrator

If you’re in a pickle, Claire is the one who answers your phone call and points you in the right direction. She is the office guru and quite genuinely one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

Laura

Health and Safety and Office Administrator

Laura is an instrumental part of our Health and Safety and support functions; she’s efficient, she’s caring, she might even be superhuman.

Shane

Project Manager

Shane’s building experience is extensive – in both the residential and commercial sectors and he proves it on the daily with his stellar project management.