Derek Alley’s path into construction and real estate almost feels like it was meant to be. Growing up surrounded by the industry, stepping into the family business was a natural next move for him. Today, as President and CEO of VCC, a Dallas-based construction management firm that’s been a staple in the industry for close to 40 years, Alley is steering the company through a period of growth and innovation, all while honoring the legacy his father built.
"I grew up around construction and real estate, so it was a natural fit to be a part of my career long-term," Alley shared. "I always loved how tangible it is, that you can see your work product come to life out of the ground. My work experiences in investment banking and private equity helped round out my worldview, but I was continually drawn back to the real estate ecosystem. I absolutely love working with our project teams to create game-changing spaces for our communities around the Country."
Founded in 1987, VCC has built a reputation as a trusted partner in the construction industry, successfully completing over 300 projects in Texas alone. With projects spanning retail, multifamily, healthcare, and mixed-use developments, the company works across the country. Under Alley’s leadership, VCC has grown into a recognized leader in its field, known not just for its high-quality projects but also for its strong client relationships, which Alley sees as a core driver of their success.
"Consistency is key," he shares. "When you do what you say you're going to do and help deliver consistent, repeatable success, your clients come back for more, and the momentum grows," VCC’s capacity to take on both small and large projects across the country has helped them stay competitive and adaptable.
As the industry continues to evolve, another reason for the company’s continued success is its ability to grow with the industry, embracing new technologies and sustainability trends. "VCC has always prided itself on being able to lead when it comes to innovation, and sustainability at the project level is just common sense to its core,” he says. Alley is especially enthusiastic about innovations in construction materials and artificial intelligence. “Tech-driven efficiencies are a huge part of the future of construction,” he explains. “We’re already seeing progress in areas like design, engineering, scheduling, and resource management."
Alley leads by example and collaboration, with a focus on empowering his team and encouraging growth. By diving into the details of every project, Alley creates an environment where each team member can thrive. "My leadership style is very much that of a collaborator," he says. "Some people go off gut, some go off data, I like to do a mix of both. I demand accurate information and, because of that, I have a lot of trust in our team's ability to execute.”
When it comes to choosing projects, Alley is selective, ensuring that each venture aligns with VCC’s values. A recent standout is the Kansas City Current mixed-use development, anchored by a new soccer stadium for the women’s team. "It’s going to be a dynamic project that will completely redefine the Riverfront in Kansas City for decades to come," Alley says, noting the exciting potential of the development.
Rooted in a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and community, Alley’s leadership blends respect for VCC’s legacy with a clear vision for the future. He’s especially passionate about attracting young talent to the industry, emphasizing the entrepreneurial opportunities and personal growth that construction offers. As the industry evolves, Alley’s forward-thinking approach is poised to guide VCC into its next chapter of success.
“VCC has always prided itself on being able to lead when it comes to innovation.”