Meet Michael Sullivan III, our CFO at Peak Construction
With 15 years at Peak Construction and a wealth of expertise in finance and accounting, Michael Sullivan III plays a critical role in ensuring Peak’s financial stability and growth. Michael manages these essential functions with a focus on fiscal responsibility, strong client relationships, and innovative solutions. His journey at Peak, starting as a volunteer accountant in college and growing through leadership, reflects his deep connection to the company and the legacy it upholds.
Tell us about your role at Peak Construction.
I oversee all the accounting, finance, IT, and HR functions for Peak. My role is to make sure that we’re financially secure and responsible, and that our clients and employees are paid accurately and on time. It’s a mix of strategic planning, problem-solving, and day-to-day management. I wear a lot of hats, but I’m lucky to have a great team that makes it possible. Every day is different, and I enjoy the challenges that come with managing these various functions because it keeps things interesting and dynamic.
What inspired you to pursue a career in this field?
Initially, I didn’t plan on a career in construction or finance. I started college as a real estate major, but in 2008, with the real estate market downturn, I pivoted to accounting, which turned out to be a good decision. Around that time, Peak’s controller left, so while I was finishing my degree, I volunteered to handle the books. I started out doing the work on a volunteer-basis and eventually joined full-time after graduation. My journey came full circle when I went back to complete my master’s in real estate – just as COVID was starting, in fact. It was a challenging time to graduate, but the skills I gained have been invaluable in understanding our clients and the development lifecycle.
What do you enjoy most about working at Peak?
The people, without a doubt. I also love that every day is different, which keeps things interesting. I enjoy solving problems, whether they’re related to our operations, clients, or subcontractors. Helping our team and clients succeed is the most rewarding part of my job. There’s a lot of variety in my day-to-day, which means you’re always thinking on your feet and finding new ways to tackle challenges.
What skills are most critical for success in your role?
Critical thinking, problem-solving, and consistency are essential. People assume finance and accounting are purely rules-based, but in reality, a lot of our work involves creativity and finding compromises. It’s about thinking outside the box to deliver the best outcome for all parties involved. While there’s math involved, a big part of what we do is navigating the complexities of each unique situation and coming up with solutions that work for everyone involved. Each day brings new challenges, whether it’s ensuring our clients have the right insurance, helping them secure a loan, or finding creative ways to manage budgets.
Could you share a memorable experience you’ve had while working at Peak?
One of the most rewarding parts of my job is seeing a project come to life. I love going to groundbreaking ceremonies, watching the construction progress, all the hard work that happens in between, and then seeing the final ribbon-cutting. There’s something special about driving by a building you’ve helped create, knowing it’ll stand for years. Whether it’s a large commercial project or something like a horse shelter, it’s rewarding to know we’ve created something lasting.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in construction or at Peak?
Find a mentor and build relationships. Mentorship has been invaluable in my career, and it helps you learn and grow in ways you can’t achieve on your own. Also, if you have extra capacity, offer to help others—it’s a great way to learn new skills and build trust within your team. At Peak, relationships are key, not just with team members but also with clients and subcontractors. Building those connections can really benefit you in the long term. I’ve been fortunate to have great mentors from the executive team here at Peak. I’ve also had great mentors through professional organizations like the Construction Financial Management Association (CFMA), which has been a fantastic resource. CFMA has connected me with peer groups, classes, and experienced mentors, all of which have been crucial to my development.
What are your interests and passions outside of work?
Most of my time outside work is spent with my three kids, who are seven, four, and one. We love being outdoors, biking, going to the beach, and building Legos together. I’m also involved in Cub Scouts with my oldest, and we do a lot of sports and outdoor activities as a family. My grandma lives on a lake, so we grew up sailing small boats there, and we still try to get out on the water a few times a year. When I am not with my kids, I also enjoy skiing and snowboarding.
