Why employees consider this Delaware construction company CEO to be a great leader

It takes a total team effort to find success in the construction industry, but when push comes to shove, it takes a leader to pave the way.

For Bancroft Construction, that leader is Greg Sawka.

As the point man for one of Delaware's premier construction companies, Sawka's leadership of Bancroft has made him a winner in the mid-size leadership category in Delaware Online/The News Journal’s 2023 Top Workplaces. 

With 140 employees stretching three states, Bancroft takes on a variety of projects, from redeveloping apartment buildings to designing emergency departments for hospitals. But the size of the company doesn't prevent Sawka from setting up his employees to develop and flourish.

"There is a lot of support to grow," one Bancroft employee said. "Senior staff is close to team members and is ready to listen whenever you have an issue. It's a place that I feel I can grow and achieve bigger things."

Other employees added that Sawka's open-door policy and his positive energy inspire the employees' confidence.

Sawka said he takes a servant leadership approach, hosting regular one-on-one breakfast and lunch meetings with employees and touring job sites to show his interest and meet his staff.

"Building the right team through coaching, motivation, and inspiration is the key differentiator to allow people and the company to thrive," he said. "There is no substitute for authentic, transparent, and timely communication and connectivity regardless of the circumstances when leading a team or being part of a team, especially during challenging situations."

Sawka is the second president and CEO in the history of Bancroft Construction, dating back to the company's start in 1975. With an MBA from the University of Delaware and a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Lehigh University, Sawka's expertise and experience in the industry is partly why his employees believe in him.

"He knows a lot about the industry and the company, and I have faith in his decision-making," one employee said of Sawka.

The company's website describes Sawka as "an enthusiastic mentor dedicated to developing future leaders and employee success throughout the organization.  He is actively involved in a multitude of business and community organizations and is a highly respected thought leader in the industry."

A Bancroft employee since 1999, Sawka was promoted to President and CEO of the company in 2010.

Sawka pointed to the success the company has seen in the Top Workplaces survey as a testament to the culture at Bancroft Construction, referring to the company's proud saying: "We hire for life!"

"Our team-oriented culture is extremely valuable in our industry where circumstances can change in an instant and it is extremely rewarding to watch people pitch in to help win the day, even when it is not part of their day-to-day responsibilities," Sawka said.

And he's hopeful about the future, too, including the company's leadership to come.

"I have no doubt that Bancroft will continue to be a dynamic and prosperous team long after I am gone."