Built to Lead: Denish Sonani
Whether we are managing an already-established capital program or overseeing a project from site selection through owner occupancy, our reason for being is to lead our clients to success. HPMers like Project Manager Denish Sonani are committed to the relentless pursuit of improvement in order to push our firm, our clients, and our industry to new standards of excellence. Denish is currently part of an HPM team that manages $280 million of the Manor ISD bond program where he is overseeing the construction of a new elementary school campus and three multipurpose indoor practice facilities. Continue reading to learn about his role at HPM, what leadership means to him, and more.
HPM: What does a typical day at HPM look like for you?
As a project manager, my key role is to manage day-to-day communication between various parties, including the architect, contractors, consultants, and the owner. Besides that, I spend a good amount of time managing the budget and schedule. In my opinion, an HPM project manager’s everyday job is to remove hurdles and clear a path well in advance so all parties can work effectively and efficiently.
HPM: What is the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is getting to know the project from a very early stage. I enjoy being there for the land acquisition, witnessing the programming and planning phases, getting in the mix with architects, consultants, and contractors, and seeing the building take shape. Finally, I enjoy closing out the project on a high note, followed by a long-awaited ribbon cutting. Basically, I get to know the project inside out.
HPM: Tell us about someone who inspires you. Why do you consider them to be a great leader?
My father inspires me more than anyone else because of his ethic, dedication, and ownership of the work. He works more than 80 hours a week as of today but I have never seen him tired. He always tells me that if you love what you do, you will never get tired but instead, you will get joy.
HPM: What does leadership mean to you?
To me, a great leader is one who believes in creating more leaders and not followers. Great leaders are more focused on the “process” to get the results, not just the results. Leading from the front is one of the main characteristics of a good leader because that is what inspires and motivates others.
Are you built to lead and interested in joining the HPM team? Check out our current job openings and apply today!
